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 The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) .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...
Heat Wave Sweeps Ontario and Quebec: Record-Breaking Temperatures and Health Risks
As the mercury soars into the 30s across Ontario and Quebec this week, residents are bracing for an extended period of extreme heat and humidity. Humidex levels are stretching into the 40s, posing health risks for everyone. Here’s what you need to know:
Health Impacts: Extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and be vigilant about heat-related symptoms.
Record-Breaking Heat: A strong ridge of high pressure over the eastern U.S. and the Great Lakes is driving this heat wave. Hot, muggy winds from the Gulf of Mexico add tropical humidity. Humidex values could reach the mid-40s in Greater Toronto, Hamilton, Ottawa, and Montreal, challenging records set during the 2018 heat wave.
Air Quality Concerns: The stagnant, humid air mass may deteriorate air quality. Scattered thunderstorms could provide temporary relief, but overall, we’re in for sweltering days and sticky nights.
Remember to take precautions, stay informed about weather alerts, and prioritize your well-being during this intense heat wave.
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