23-06-2025
Accessing federal benefits in Canada just got easier for newcomers
The
Canada Revenue Agency
(CRA) has introduced a new online application process to make it easier for newcomers to access
federal benefits
and credit payments.
Previously, eligible
temporary and permanent residents
had to submit paper forms to claim these benefits. With the new system in place, newcomers can now apply online through the CRA's website. For many forms, the process takes less than 20 minutes, CIC News reports.
The CRA has also introduced a simplified form for newcomers without children who want to apply for the
GST/HST credit
and the
Canada Carbon Rebate
. Newcomers may be eligible for various benefit programs even before they file their first tax return. These include:
GST/HST Credit: A quarterly, tax-free payment to help low-income individuals and families offset the cost of sales tax.
Canada Carbon Rebate: A quarterly payment to help offset the cost of carbon pricing. The last payment was issued on April 22, 2025, but newcomers can apply for retroactive payments if eligible.
Canada Child Benefit
: A monthly tax-free payment for families with children under 18. Temporary residents must have lived in
Canada
for 18 months to qualify.
To access these benefits, newcomers must have a
Social Insurance Number
(SIN), which they can obtain from Service Canada. The SIN application process has also recently been simplified.
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For tax purposes, the CRA classifies someone as a newcomer during their first year of residency in Canada. This applies to both temporary and permanent residents, starting from the day they arrive with sufficient residential ties such as a home, family, or other legal ties.
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The CRA is the federal agency responsible for tax collection and benefit distribution. It also manages certain provincial and territorial programs inclusive of fulfilling tax obligations, excluding that of Quebec.
