Thursday, July 9, 2026 Every July, a wave of federal benefit payments resets for the new benefit year — and 2026 brings one of the biggest shifts in years. Between a permanent 25% boost to the old GST/HST credit, a fresh Canada Child Benefit increase, and the largest quarterly OAS bump of the year, millions of Canadian households will see different numbers land in their accounts this month. Here's what actually changed, and what to check in your own CRA account. The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) . It's not a new program from scratch — it runs on the same CRA infrastructure and eligibility rules — but the payment amounts are 25% higher, and that increase is locked in for five years. The first CGEB payment went out on July 3, 2026. Under the new structure: A single individual with no children can receive up to roughly $679 per year (about $170 per quart...
Canada Day Weekend Sets the Stage for a Bustling Summer Travel Season
As Canada Day approaches, millions of Canadians are gearing up for a summer of exploration and adventure. The travel industry is abuzz with activity, and transportation providers are preparing for record-breaking numbers. Here’s what you need to know:
Air Travel: Montreal’s Trudeau International Airport is anticipating a whopping 2.2 million passengers each month in June, July, and August—a new record! Meanwhile, Pearson International Airport expects 160,000 passengers daily during peak summer days, an eight percent increase from last year.
Rail Journeys: VIA Rail is bracing for 45,000 passengers over the Canada Day weekend, with Friday and Monday being the busiest days. Whether you’re exploring the scenic countryside or zipping between cities, rail travel is a popular choice.
Road Trips: Quebecers are hitting the road, with 57 percent planning vacations within the province. If you’re driving, soak in the beautiful scenery but stay focused on the road. CAA-Québec advises safe driving practices to ensure a smooth journey.
Remember, whether you’re soaring through the skies, riding the rails, or cruising the highways, Canada Day weekend marks the start of an exciting summer travel season across the country.
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