There are many benefits and credits that can put extra money in your pocket. Here are a few that could help individuals and families:

1. Canada child benefit (CCB) – The CCB is a tax-free, monthly payment made to eligible families to help with the cost of raising children under the age of 18. You can get up to $6,400 per year for each child under 6, and $5,400 for each child from 6 to 17 years old. The CCB payment might include the child disability benefit and any related provincial and territorial programs. Applying for the CCB will also register your child for the GST/HST credit. Apply for the CCB in one of the following ways:
   • Automated Benefits Application
   • My Account
   • Form RC66, Canada Child Benefits Application
2. Child disability benefit (CDB) - The CDB is a tax-free benefit for eligible families who care for a child under age 18 who is eligible for the disability tax credit. The CDB is paid monthly, along with the CCB, to the CCB eligible individuals. You can get up to $2,730 annually.
3. The goods and services tax / harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) credit – The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment of up to $560 per year that helps eligible individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset all or part of the GST/HST that they pay. If you are eligible for the GST/HST credit and have children under 19 years of age, you could also get up to $147 per year for each child.
4. Working income tax benefit (WITB) - The WITB is a refundable tax credit for low-income individuals and families who are in the workforce. If you are eligible for the WITB, you can claim the credit on your income tax and benefit return. You also have the option to apply for WITB advance payments.

Most Canadian income tax and benefit returns for 2017 are due on April 30, 2018. If you or your spouse or common-law partner is self-employed, you have until June 15, 2018 to file your return. However, if you have a balance owing for 2017, you have to pay it on or before April 30, 2018.

You need to file a return every year to avoid delays in getting benefit payments, even if you had no income at all or if your income was tax-exempt. If you have a spouse or common-law partner, they also need to file their taxes every year. When filing a return, you may be able to claim certain non-refundable tax credits and deductions to reduce the amount of tax you may have to pay. For example, you may claim the Canada caregiver credit, adoption expenses, and medical expenses, and the deduction for child care expenses, among others.

Receive your benefit and credit payments faster!

Direct deposit gives you immediate access to your benefit and credit payments. By signing up for direct deposit, you will no longer need to wait for your payments to be delivered in the mail. Don’t wait for your money to arrive by mail, sign up today!

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