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The GST Credit Is Gone: What the New Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Means for Your Wallet

  Canadian Money Brief · Government Benefits As of today, July 1, 2026, the GST/HST credit no longer exists under that name. It's been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) — and for most recipients, the cheques (or direct deposits) are about to get bigger. If you've been getting the GST/HST credit, here's exactly what's changing, how much more you can expect, and when the money actually shows up. What Actually Changed The CGEB isn't a brand-new program from scratch — it's the GST/HST credit, renamed and enhanced. The federal government made two moves this year: A one-time top-up equal to 50% of your 2025–26 annual GST/HST credit amount, which started landing in bank accounts on June 5, 2026. A permanent-feeling 25% increase to the base benefit, in effect for five years starting with the July 2026 payment, and indexed to inflation. Both are automatic. If you filed your 2024 tax return and qualified for the GST/HST credit, you don'...

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Ontario's Electricity Surcharge Sparks U.S. Backlash

Ontario's recent decision to impose a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the United States has ignited tensions across the border. Premier Doug Ford announced the measure as a retaliatory response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. The surcharge, effective immediately, impacts approximately 1.5 million homes and businesses in Michigan, Minnesota, and New York, potentially adding $100 to monthly electricity bills for affected consumers.

Ford defended the move, emphasizing its necessity to protect Ontario's interests amidst escalating trade disputes. He warned that further measures, including a complete halt to electricity exports, could follow if U.S. tariffs persist. While the surcharge is expected to generate significant daily revenue for Ontario, critics argue it could strain cross-border relations and disrupt energy markets.

U.S. governors have expressed concerns over the surcharge's impact on pricing and reliability, with some warning of potential reciprocal actions. As the trade standoff continues, the surcharge underscores the growing economic and political complexities in U.S.-Canada relations.

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