Quebec Residents Can Receive Payments From These Government Benefits & Credits In January
You could be eligible for hundreds of dollars.
A Quebec government building.
This January, the government of Quebec is committed to providing financial relief to residents grappling with the escalating cost of living.
The soaring expenses on essentials such as groceries and rent have disproportionately affected Quebecers, particularly those with lower incomes. In response to these economic challenges, various benefits and credits are being extended to alleviate the financial strain.
For individuals seeking ways to navigate these tough financial times and secure additional funds, assessing eligibility for various government programs is highly advisable. Qualifying for these initiatives could result in receiving substantial financial support throughout January.
The Quebec government is dispersing a variety of credits and benefits, including the Quebec Pension Plan (QPP), Family Allowance, Shelter Allowance, GST/HST credits and the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) among others.
Here's a guide for Quebec residents to stay informed about forthcoming government payments.
Quebec Pension Plan (QPP)
According to Revenu Quebec, the Québec Pension Plan (QPP) is a mandatory public insurance program designed for individuals aged 18 and above, earning an annual employment income exceeding $3500. Its primary objective is to offer essential financial security to individuals who have been employed in Québec and their families in the cases of retirement, death, or disability.
Payment Date: January 31, 2024
Quebec Public-Sector Pension Plans (RREGOP, PPMP)
For Quebecers who opted for direct deposit, their public-sector retirement pension will be paid out monthly for the rest of their life on the 15th of each and every month. If the 15th is not a business day, the payment will reach your account on the business day closest to the 15th.
If your pension is paid by cheque rather than direct deposit, it will be sent out no later than 48 hours before the 15th of the month.
Payment Date: January 15, 2024
Family Allowance
Family Allowance is offered to eligible families with one or more dependent children under the age of 18.
For children born in Québec, a separate application for Family Allowance is not required. Upon reporting your child's birth to the Directeur de l'état civil, your child will be automatically enrolled with Retraite Québec. The initial Family Allowance payment will be processed within a maximum of 40 days after the Quebec government receives the birth declaration for your child.
Family Allowance payments are distributed four times a year, specifically in January, April, July, and October on scheduled payment dates. Alternatively, you have the option to receive monthly payments, which are issued on the first day of each month.
Payment Date: January 3, 2024
GST/HST
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment intended to assist individuals and families with low to modest incomes in offsetting the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) they incur, per the CRA.
This federal credit may also encompass contributions from provincial and territorial programs. Eligibility for the GST/HST credit is automatic, and you are considered for it when you file your taxes.
Payment Date: January 5, 2024
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and constitutes a tax-free monthly allowance provided to qualifying families.
This financial support aims to assist with the expenses associated with raising children under the age of 18. The CCB may encompass the child disability benefit and associated provincial and territorial programs.
Payment Date: January 19, 2024
Shelter Allowance Program
The Shelter Allowance Program aims to help low-income individuals and families who find themselves spending too much of their income on housing. For the period from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, the program provides $100, $150 or $170 in financial assistance per month to eligible individuals.
Shelter Allowance payments are usually sent by cheque or direct deposit within the first five days of each month.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
