For many newcomers arriving in Canada, one of the biggest surprises is the high cost of groceries and daily essentials. Food prices, rent, gas, and basic household items can quickly strain a new family’s budget.
On January 26, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a major expansion of federal support to help low- and modest-income households manage these costs.
The program is now officially called the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, replacing the old GST Credit.
This guide explains how much you can receive, who is eligible, and how newcomers can apply.
How Much Money Can You Get?
The benefit is being introduced in two parts:
- A large one-time payment in 2026
- A permanent 25% increase for the next five years (2027–2031)
Benefit Amounts at a Glance
| Household Type | One-Time Payment (2026) | Annual Amount (2027–2031) |
|---|---|---|
| Single individual | Up to $950 | About $700 / year |
| Couple + 2 children | Up to $1,890 | About $1,400 / year |
Income limit (example):
For a single person, eligibility is based on a net income of approximately $56,181 or less (based on 2024–2025 thresholds).
Who Is Eligible?
You may be eligible if:
- You are a resident of Canada
- You have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- You file your income taxes or submit the newcomer application form
How Newcomers Apply
If You Arrived Before December 31, 2025
- File your 2025 Income Tax Return by April 30, 2026
- The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will automatically assess your eligibility
- No separate application is required
- Payments are issued after your tax return is processed
If You Are a New Arrival in 2026
- You do not need to wait for the next tax season
- You can apply immediately by:
- Completing Form RC151
- Submitting it to your local CRA tax centre
- This registers you in the CRA system so you may begin receiving quarterly payments once your residency is confirmed
- You must still file a tax return later when required
Important Note for Government-Sponsored Refugees
If you are a government-sponsored refugee, your situation may be different.
Some benefits, applications, or tax filings may be coordinated through your settlement or sponsorship organization, especially during your first year in Canada.
Before applying on your own, make sure to:
- Ask your settlement agency or sponsorship organization how and when to apply
- Confirm whether they will help you:
- File your first tax return
- Submit Form RC151
- Register for federal benefits with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
