The Canadian government continues to provide essential financial aid to help citizens manage daily living expenses. In April and May 2024, several benefits will be issued to qualifying individuals and families. These include support for seniors, families with children, veterans, students, and low-income households.
This financial assistance helps cover critical needs like food, rent, utilities, and healthcare. Rising inflation has made these payments even more important, ensuring Canadians have access to the help they need. Some benefits are given monthly, while others follow quarterly or yearly schedules.
Understanding the different programs and when payments arrive is crucial for managing money wisely. This guide breaks down all the key benefits, who qualifies, how much they can receive, and the expected payment dates for each one.
Why These Payments Matter
Government financial programs are designed to support Canadians through different life stages. These include:
- Seniors, who rely on retirement income from pensions.
- Families, who benefit from child support and tax-free payments.
- Low-income households, who get tax credits to ease cost of living.
- Veterans and disabled individuals, who receive compensation for their service or condition.
These programs offer relief during tough times and promote economic stability for millions of people.
Support for Seniors: CPP and OAS
What Are CPP and OAS?
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP): Paid to retirees based on their past work contributions.
- Old Age Security (OAS): Based on age and years of residency in Canada.
| Benefit | Maximum Monthly Payment | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| CPP (65 years old) | $1,433 | Based on total contributions |
| OAS (65-74 years) | $707.67 | Income below $148,451 |
| OAS (75+ years) | $880.44 | Income below $154,196 |
Additional help is available through the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for low-income seniors.
Payment Dates:
- April 28, 2024
- May 28, 2024
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
What Is the CCB?
The CCB is a monthly tax-free payment for families with children under 18. It’s designed to help with the costs of raising kids.
- Up to $7,437 per child per year for low-income families.
- Extra support is available for children with disabilities.
- Amounts are reviewed annually to match inflation.
Payment Dates:
- April 17, 2024
- May 20, 2024
Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
Who Gets OTB?
The OTB is for Ontario residents and includes three parts:
- Energy and Property Tax Credit
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit
- Sales Tax Credit
These help cover home energy costs, property taxes, and part of the provincial sales tax.
Payment Dates:
- April 10, 2024
- May 9, 2024
Veteran Disability Benefits
Veterans with service-related disabilities can receive two types of financial support:
- Pain and Suffering Compensation (one-time or monthly)
- Disability Pension (ongoing payments)
These benefits are tax-free and aim to support veterans’ health and well-being.
Payment Dates:
- April 29, 2024
- May 30, 2024
GST/HST Credit
The GST/HST credit is a tax refund for low-income Canadians to offset the sales tax they pay on goods and services.
Next Payment Date:
- April 4, 2024
Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR)
Previously known as the Climate Action Incentive Payment, the CCR helps Canadians in certain provinces offset the cost of the federal carbon tax on fuel.
Next Payment Date:
- April 15, 2024
Help With Property Tax for Low-Income Homeowners
Low-income seniors and people with disabilities can get rebates on property taxes if:
- They own and live in the home for at least 1 year.
- They receive GIS or ODSP benefits.
Spouses may also qualify. There is also a Stormwater Charge Subsidy available to reduce water bills.
Application Deadline: December 31, 2025
What To Do If You Miss a Payment
If your benefit payment doesn’t arrive:
- Check the status via the CRA’s My Account.
- Wait 10 business days after the due date.
- Call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281 to report it.
- Request a replacement cheque if needed.
Good news: Government cheques do not expire, so you can still cash old ones.