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 The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) .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...
Spring Forward: Daylight Saving Time in Canada
As the winter chill begins to fade and the promise of spring looms on the horizon, Canadians prepare to embrace longer days and shorter nights. The eagerly awaited transition to Daylight Saving Time (DST) marks the end of standard time, as clocks across the country spring forward by one hour. This year, DST begins on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 2 a.m. local time.
While the adjustment might mean losing an hour of precious sleep, the benefits of DST are well worth the initial grogginess. The extra daylight in the evenings encourages outdoor activities, boosts mental well-being, and provides a sense of rejuvenation after the long, dark winter months. Communities come alive as residents take advantage of the extended daylight to socialize, exercise, and engage in various recreational pursuits.
Historically, DST was introduced to make better use of daylight during the longer days of spring and summer. The practice was first implemented during World War I as a means to conserve energy. Over the years, it has evolved into a tradition that many Canadians eagerly anticipate.
As you set your clocks forward this weekend, take a moment to relish the thought of longer, sunlit evenings and the opportunities they bring. Whether it's a leisurely stroll in the park, a family barbecue, or simply soaking up the golden hour, the extra daylight is a gift to cherish.
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