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The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — And It's Paying 25% More

  Sunday, July 19, 2026 If you've relied on the quarterly GST/HST credit, that name is gone for good. Here's what replaced it, how much more it's worth, and whether you need to do anything to get it. For years, the GST/HST credit quietly landed in millions of Canadian bank accounts every three months — a modest, tax-free top-up meant to offset sales tax on everyday purchases. As of this month, that program no longer exists under its old name. It's now the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) , and the federal government has permanently increased the payment by 25%, locked in for five years. If you already qualified for the GST/HST credit, you don't need to apply for anything new. But you should know what changed, because the numbers — and the timeline — are more involved than a simple rename. What actually changed The CGEB was first announced by the federal government in January 2026 as part of a broader affordability push, and it became law with the passa...

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Toronto Transit Workers Face Friday Strike Deadline

 

Toronto transit workers are on the brink of a strike unless negotiations see significant changes on key contract issues. The looming deadline, set for Friday just past midnight, could trigger the first TTC strike since 2008.

Core Issues and Impasse

ATU Local 113 president Marvin Alfred stated that negotiations have reached an “impasse.” The union’s nearly 12,000 members are moving toward a strike unless core issues—such as wages, benefits, and job security—are addressed. The union seeks protections against outsourcing jobs to third parties and cross-boundary service transfers to other Greater Toronto Area transit operators.

Optimism and Challenges

TTC spokesperson Stuart Green remains optimistic that a deal can be worked out before the deadline. Negotiations are likely to go down to the wire, balancing the challenging work of union members with affordability for the City of Toronto. TTC chair Jamaal Myers echoes this optimism, emphasizing the need for contingency plans.

Impact on Commuters

A strike could disrupt travel plans for tens of thousands of commuters who rely on TTC subways, streetcars, and buses. While both sides continue bargaining, it’s essential for commuters to have a backup plan in place.



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