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 The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) .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...
7 Carry-On Essentials for a Smooth Flight, According to Travel Experts
Here are seven carry-on essentials recommended by travel reporters to make your next flight as smooth as possible:
Fanny Pack: Keep your essential items like your wallet, boarding pass, keys, and passport easily accessible by wearing a fanny pack. This helps avoid the hassle of digging through your bag.
Foot Hammock: A small, portable foot hammock can make a big difference in comfort, especially on long flights. It attaches to the tray table and allows you to rest your feet comfortably.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Freshen up during long flights with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Keeping these in your carry-on ensures they’re easily accessible.
Travel Blanket or Scarf: Airplanes can get quite cold, so having a light blanket or scarf can keep you warm and comfortable.
Compression Socks: These help improve circulation and reduce swelling during long flights, making your journey more comfortable.
Hand Sanitizer and Wipes: Keep your hands clean and sanitize your seating area with hand sanitizer and wipes.
Entertainment: Bring a book, Kindle, or download movies and music to keep yourself entertained during the flight.
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