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 The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) .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...
Passover 2025: A Celebration of Resilience Amid Challenges
Passover, known as Pesach in Hebrew, is one of the most widely observed Jewish holidays, commemorating the exodus of the ancient Israelites from slavery in Egypt. This year, Passover begins at sunset on Saturday, April 12, and ends after nightfall on Sunday, April 20. It is a time for family reunions, storytelling, and reflection on themes of freedom and resilience.
However, the celebrations this year are shadowed by ongoing anxieties and divisions within Jewish communities. The unresolved Israel-Hamas conflict continues to weigh heavily, with many Seder tables symbolically leaving empty seats for those lost or held hostage. Additionally, the specter of antisemitism looms large, with reports of increased incidents in various countries, including the United States and Canada. Security advisories have been issued to Jewish organizations, highlighting potential threats during this sacred time.
Despite these challenges, Passover remains a beacon of hope and unity. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Jewish people, who have faced adversity throughout history and emerged stronger. This year, as families gather to recount the story of the Exodus, the holiday's message of liberation and perseverance resonates more deeply than ever.
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