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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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Stay Healthy This Sick Season: Tips to Protect Yourself from Norovirus, COVID-19, Flu, and RSV


As winter approaches, so does the season of sniffles, coughs, and stomach bugs. Norovirus, COVID-19, flu, and RSV are all making their rounds, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and stay healthy:

1. Practice Good Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after coming into contact with potentially contaminated surfaces. If soap and water aren't available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

2. Handle Food Safely

Norovirus is often spread through contaminated food. Ensure that you wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, cook shellfish properly, and avoid preparing food when you're sick.

3. Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

Regularly clean high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops with household cleaning products. Use a chlorine bleach solution or an EPA-registered disinfectant to clean areas contaminated by vomit or feces.

4. Wear Masks in Crowded Areas

Wearing an N95 or medical-grade mask can help reduce your exposure to respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and the flu. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze.

5. Get Vaccinated

Stay up to date with your COVID-19 booster shots and get the annual flu vaccine. While there are no vaccines for norovirus or the common cold, getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 can significantly reduce your risk of severe illness.

6. Stay Home When Sick

If you're feeling unwell, stay home to avoid spreading illness to others. Isolate yourself until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have subsided.

7. Prioritize Rest and Hydration

Ensure you get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Drink water and electrolyte solutions to help your body recover from illness.

By following these simple steps, you can help protect yourself and others from the common winter illnesses. Stay healthy and take care!




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