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 The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) .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 Post Strike Enters Fourth Week Amid Rising Tensions
As the Canada Post strike approaches its four-week mark, tensions between the Crown corporation and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) continue to escalate. The ongoing strike, which began on November 15, 2024, has left millions of deliveries at a standstill, impacting businesses and consumers alike.
The union and management have been trading accusations of bad-faith bargaining. The CUPW criticized Canada Post's latest offers, stating that they do not address key issues such as wage increases, job security, and working conditions. In response, Canada Post claimed that the union's proposals have widened the gap between the two parties, introducing new demands that complicate negotiations.
With federal mediation on hold and no end in sight, the business community has called for government intervention. However, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has so far resisted stepping in, urging both sides to reach an agreement.
As the strike drags on, small businesses, especially retailers relying on parcel deliveries during the holiday season, are feeling the brunt of the disruption. The CUPW has also filed an unfair labour practice complaint over layoffs of striking workers, adding another layer of contention.
The future of negotiations remains uncertain, with both parties standing firm on their positions. The impact on the economy and public services continues to grow, leaving many to wonder when a resolution will be reached.
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