Several provincial and federal benefit payments are scheduled to be released in April, providing financial support for eligible individuals.
These payments cover a variety of programs, including GST/HST benefits, Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB), Canada Child Benefit (CCB), Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), and Veteran Disability Pension.
Key Payment Dates for April
Below is a list of the specific payment dates for the various benefits that will be issued throughout the month of April:
| Benefit | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| GST/HST Credit | April 4 |
| Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) | April 10 |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | April 17 |
| Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR) | April 22 |
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | April 28 |
| Old Age Security (OAS) | April 28 |
| Veteran Disability Pension | April 29 |
| Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) | April 30 |
What Is the Canada Carbon Rebate and Why is April’s Payment the Last?
The Canada Carbon Rebate, previously called the Climate Action Incentive Payment, is a payment aimed at helping residents of certain provinces cope with the cost of carbon pricing.
These payments are available for individuals in Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and Saskatchewan.
On March 15, the Canadian government announced the removal of the fuel charge from Canada’s carbon pollution pricing system, effectively bringing an end to the Canada Carbon Rebate for individuals.
The final payment for the carbon rebate will be made on April 22 as per the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Understanding the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a three-in-one payment that combines the Ontario energy and property tax credit, the northern Ontario energy credit, and the Ontario sales tax credit. It is determined based on your tax return from the previous year.
Eligibility for OTB
To qualify for the OTB, you must meet certain criteria and be entitled to receive at least one of the following benefits:
- Ontario energy and property tax credit
- Northern Ontario energy credit
- Ontario sales tax credit
Eligibility requirements include having paid property tax or rent for your principal residence in Ontario during the previous tax year or having paid living expenses for a nursing home or energy costs while living on an Ontario reserve.
How to Apply for OTB
To receive the OTB, you must file your previous year’s income tax and benefit return and complete the ON-BEN application form included in your tax return package.
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is available only if you apply each tax year, as eligibility is based on family net income.
How Much Will You Receive Through CPP?
To qualify for the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), you need to be at least 60 years old and have contributed to the plan either through employment or from credits provided by a former spouse or common-law partner.
The maximum monthly CPP amount at age 65 is $1,364.60 for those who start receiving their pension at 65. The average amount paid to those starting their pension at 65 in July 2024 was $815.
Your CPP payments depend on various factors, including the age you begin receiving the pension, how long and how much you contributed, and your average earnings throughout your working life.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment designed to assist eligible families with the cost of raising children under the age of 18. The amount you can receive depends on factors such as your income, the number of children, and your marital status.
Families with an adjusted net income under $36,502 are eligible for the maximum benefit, with $7,787 annually per child under the age of six and $6,570 annually for children between the ages of 6 and 17. Families with a child with a disability can receive an additional $3,173 per year.
Who Is Eligible for OAS?
The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a monthly payment for individuals aged 65 or older. In most cases, Service Canada automatically enrolls individuals for the OAS pension, provided sufficient information is available.
If you’re eligible, Service Canada will notify you about your automatic enrollment.
Eligibility for ODSP
The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) provides financial support for individuals with disabilities to help with living expenses such as food, rent, and health benefits. The amount you can receive from ODSP depends on your specific situation.
If you’re single, you could receive up to $1,368 per month to cover basic needs and shelter. ODSP payments are typically issued on the last business day of each month.
Veteran Disability Pension: Who Is Eligible?
The Veteran Disability Pension is a tax-free financial benefit offered by Veterans Affairs Canada to support veterans who have disabilities related to their military service.
The payment amount is determined based on the degree of the disability and how it impacts the veteran’s quality of life.
What to Do if You Don’t Receive a Payment
If you haven’t received your federal government benefit payment, wait 10 working days from the scheduled payment date before contacting the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
April is an important month for many Canadians, as various benefit payments will be issued throughout the month. These payments are designed to provide financial support for individuals and families in need. Keep track of the payment dates to ensure you receive your benefits on time.
FAQs
How do I apply for the Ontario Trillium Benefit?
You must file your income tax and benefit return each year and complete the ON-BEN application form.
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The CCB is a monthly, tax-free payment provided to eligible families with children under the age of 18, based on family income, number of children, and marital status.
When will I receive my Canada Pension Plan (CPP) payment?
The CPP payment is issued on April 28, along with Old Age Security (OAS) benefits.
Is the Canada Carbon Rebate ending?
Yes, the Canada Carbon Rebate is ending, with the final payment being issued on April 22.