Canada Revenue Agency announced an online application option for newcomers seeking benefit and credit payments.
The agency said newcomers can apply for benefit and credit payments, including related provincial and territorial payments, before filing a Canadian tax return for the first time.
The application path depends on family situation. Newcomers without children can use the RC151 GST/HST Credit and Canada Carbon Rebate Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada digital form.
Where children are involved, CRA directed applicants to the appropriate benefit forms, including the Canada Child Benefit application process where the CCB eligibility requirements are met.
Information provided through the application is used to determine eligibility for the GST/HST credit, the Canada Carbon Rebate, and related provincial and territorial programs.
CRA also reminded newcomers that ongoing benefit payments depend on annual tax filing. A taxpayer and spouse or common-law partner generally need to file tax returns on time every year, even with no income, to keep benefit information current.
The announcement is administrative, but it matters for household cash flow. Benefit and credit payments can begin before a first tax season is complete, provided the right application is filed and status, income, and family information are supplied.