Canada Child Benefit and GST Credit for Newcomers | September 2025
As a newcomer to Canada, understanding and accessing available benefits can significantly impact your family's financial well-being. Two crucial programs, the Canada Child Benefit and GST/HST Credit, provide valuable support for new residents. Whether you've recently arrived or are planning your move, learning about these tax benefits for newcomers and financial assistance programs is an essential first step in establishing your new life in Canada.
Jump to
Summary Table for Canada Child Benefit and GST Credit for Newcomers | September 2025
| Name | Type | Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Government Benefit | Learn More |
| GST/HST Credit | Government Benefit | Learn More |
| CRA Newcomer Benefit Tool | Government Benefits Program | Learn More |
| GST/HST Credit Payment Date for October 2025 | Government Benefit | Learn More |
What Newcomers Need to Know
- You must have valid immigration status (permanent resident, protected person, or temporary resident who has lived in Canada for 18 months)
- A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required for all benefit applications
- Benefits typically begin the month after you become a resident of Canada
- You must file Canadian tax returns to maintain eligibility
- Both parents must provide immigration documentation for child benefits
- Applications can be submitted as soon as you arrive in Canada
Our Top Recommendations
- Apply for your SIN immediately upon arrival in Canada
- Submit benefit applications within your first month to avoid payment delays
- Keep all immigration documents and proof of entry dates
- Register for CRA My Account to track applications and payments
- Set up direct deposit for faster benefit payments
- Maintain updated contact information with the CRA
1. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
Category: Government Benefit
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment program that helps newcomer families manage the costs of raising children in Canada. This program provides significant financial support for eligible immigrant families with children under 18, making it an essential resource for settling and establishing a new life in Canada.
What newcomers need to know:
- Must be a resident of Canada to qualify for the benefit
- Must be the primary caregiver for children under 18 years of age
- Required to file annual tax returns to maintain eligibility
- Family income threshold of $120,000 affects payment amounts
- Must live with the child and be responsible for their care and upbringing
Benefits for newcomers:
- Up to $7,997 per year ($666.41 monthly) for each child under 6
- Up to $6,748 per year ($562.33 monthly) for each child aged 6-17
- Payments are tax-free and provided monthly
- Amount varies based on family's adjusted net income
- Helps offset costs of raising children in Canada
How to apply:
- Visit official website to learn more
2. GST/HST Credit
Category: Government Benefit
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment designed to help individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset the costs of goods and services tax in Canada. For newcomers, this program provides essential financial support during their settlement period by helping manage the cost of everyday purchases.
What newcomers need to know:
- Must be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes
- Must be at least 19 years old at the beginning of the month in which payments are made
- Payments are distributed four times per year (January, April, July, and October)
- Must not fall under any tax-exempt categories
- Must file annual income tax returns to receive the credit
Benefits for newcomers:
- Tax-free quarterly payments
- Up to $519 for single individuals
- Up to $680 for married or common-law partners
- Additional $179 for each child under 19
- Automatic consideration when filing income tax returns
How to apply:
- Visit official website to learn more
3. CRA Newcomer Benefit Tool
Category: Government Benefit
The CRA Newcomer Benefit Tool helps new immigrants to Canada access essential benefits and tax credits through a simplified process. This comprehensive resource connects newcomers with crucial financial support programs like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and GST/HST credits while providing guidance on the Canadian tax system.
What newcomers need to know:
- Must have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) to apply
- Required to file taxes annually to maintain benefit payments
- First tax return submission is essential for initial benefit access
- Can apply for GST/HST credit using online form RC151
- Must keep personal information up to date with CRA
Benefits for newcomers:
- Access to Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- GST/HST credit payments
- Resettlement Assistance Program benefits
- Child and family benefit calculator access
- Direct deposit payment options
How to apply:
- Visit official website to learn more
4. GST/HST Credit Payment Date for October 2025
Category: Government Benefit
The GST/HST Credit is a tax-free quarterly payment designed to help individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax they pay. For newcomers to Canada, this program provides essential financial support while establishing themselves in their new country.
What newcomers need to know:
- The October 2025 GST/HST credit payment will be issued on Friday, October 3, 2025
- Eligibility is automatically assessed when you file your tax return
- Payment amounts are based on your 2024 tax return information
- This payment is part of the 2025-2026 benefit year (July 2025 through June 2026)
- Other payment dates in 2025 are January 3, April 4, and July 4
Benefits for newcomers:
- Base credit of $349 for individuals
- Additional $349 for spouse or common-law partner
- Extra $184 for each child under 19 years old
- Tax-free quarterly payments
- Automatic consideration upon filing taxes
How to apply:
- Visit official website to learn more
Final Words
Navigating benefits as a newcomer to Canada doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start by creating your CRA My Account and submitting your applications as soon as possible after arrival. Remember that these benefits are designed to support your transition to life in Canada, and staying informed about tax benefits for newcomers will help ensure you receive all the support you're eligible for. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can start receiving these valuable benefits for you and your family.
