How to get the benefit
Previous name: GST/HST credit
In most cases, you do not need to apply for the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) and related provincial or territorial benefit programs. Only new residents of Canada may need to apply for the first year they become a resident.
File your tax return to get the benefit
You do not need to apply to receive the CGEB. This also applies to related provincial or territorial benefit programs. All you have to do is file your tax return every year, even if you do not have any income to report.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) automatically checks your eligibility when your tax return is assessed each year. If you are entitled to the benefit, you will start receiving quarterly payments.
Find out how to get the benefit if you are turning 19 during the year.
If you file your taxes late
You must file your tax return by April 30 each year to ensure there is no disruption to your quarterly payments. The CGEB is recalculated every July based on your adjusted family net income from the previous year.
If you file your taxes late, your payments may stop temporarily. Once your tax return is assessed, the CRA will determine if you are entitled to the benefit. If any entitled benefit amounts were missed, you will receive retroactive payments in the next scheduled payment.
Apply if you are a new resident of Canada
If you are a new resident, before you file your first tax return, you can apply for the CGEB for the first year you are a resident of Canada for income tax purposes.
Only one application per household is required.
New resident with no children: Option 1
Use the online form to complete and submit your application electronically:
New resident with children who are under 19 years old: Option 2
You must:
- Download and print PDF:
Form RC66, Canada Child Benefit Application includes federal, provincial, and territorial programs if you are eligible for the Canada child benefit (CCB)
- Include any children under 19 years old who are in your care
- Attach proof of birth for all children you are applying for
- Mail the completed form to your tax centre
If you apply using Form RC66, the information you provide is used to determine your eligibility for the CGEB and related provincial or territorial benefit programs.
You must provide proof of birth of all children you are applying for when you complete your application for the benefit. If you are providing original documents in a language other than English or French, you need to include an acceptable translation with a copy of the original.