Quebec residents can receive payment from these government benefits and credits in April 2024

In today’s economic climate, where the cost of living in Canada is steadily increasing, residents of Quebec are seeking ways to not only save money but also to increase their income. The Quebec government offers a range of financial programs and credits that can help offset inflation and provide much-needed assistance, particularly to low-income families. Several benefits and credits available to Quebecers are scheduled to be disbursed this upcoming April. It’s crucial to verify your eligibility for these programs to ensure you receive the financial support you’re entitled to.

Quebec Pension Plan (QPP)

The Quebec Pension Plan is a mandatory public insurance program for workers aged 18 and above who earn more than $3,500 annually. It provides basic financial protection for retirement, disability, and death. Since 2019, the plan has consisted of a base plan and an additional plan, which enhance income replacement and the maximum pensionable salary, according to Revenu Quebec. Both plans are funded by contributions from employers and employees. While the base plan provides pensions and benefits for retirement, disability, and death, the additional plan enhances these benefits, particularly for retirement and disability.

Public-sector pension plans (RREGOP, PPMP)

For pensioners who receive their pension through direct deposit, the public-sector retirement pension will be paid on the 15th of each month for the duration of their lives, as per Retraite Quebec. If the 15th falls on a weekend or a statutory holiday, the pension will be paid on the preceding business day. For those who opted for payment by cheque, the cheque will be issued no later than 48 hours before the 15th.

The Family Allowance Measure

The Family Allowance measure provides various forms of financial assistance to families through the Quebec government. These include the Family Allowance payment, which is intended for eligible families with dependent children under 18; a supplement for the purchase of school supplies, providing $121 per child aged 4 to 16; a supplement for handicapped children, offering support for parents caring for seriously impaired children; and the Supplement for Handicapped Children Requiring Exceptional Care, which provides financial aid to parents facing the extraordinary responsibilities of caring for severely disabled children.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP)

The Canada Pension Plan is a monthly, taxable benefit designed to supplement your income during retirement, as per the Canada Revenue Agency. To qualify for the CPP retirement pension, you must be at least 60 years old and have made at least one valid contribution to the CPP. Contributions can stem from work in Canada or credits received from a former spouse or common-law partner at the end of the relationship.

Old Age Security (OAS)

The Old Age Security pension is a monthly payment available for individuals aged 65 and older. Service Canada typically automatically enrolls eligible individuals for the OAS pension if sufficient information is on record. However, if you haven’t received any communication about the OAS pension by the month following your 64th birthday, you may need to apply for it.

GST/HST Credit

The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment aimed at assisting individuals and families with low to modest incomes in offsetting the GST or HST they pay. This benefit may include payments from provincial and territorial programs. Eligibility for the GST/HST credit is automatic upon filing taxes, according to the CRA. The amount of the GST/HST credit payments is determined by your adjusted family net income and the number of children under 19 registered for benefits.

Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

The Canada Child Benefit provides tax-free monthly payments to eligible families for raising children under 18. To qualify, you must reside with a child under 18, be primarily responsible for their care, and be a Canadian resident for tax purposes. Additionally, you, your spouse, or common-law partner must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, protected persons, temporary residents who have lived in Canada for the previous 18 months with a valid permit in the 19th month, or individuals eligible for registration under the Indian Act.

Veteran Disability Pension

The veteran disability benefit provides tax-free financial support for retired veterans’ well-being, determined by the degree of their condition’s service-relatedness (entitlement) and its severity’s impact on their quality of life (assessment), as per the Canada Revenue Agency. Eligibility extends to Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) personnel, Second World War or Korean War veterans (including Merchant Navy), and certain civilians from the Second World War. You must have a diagnosed medical condition related to your service to qualify.

If eligible, you can receive either pain and suffering compensation — a choice between a lifetime monthly benefit or a lump sum — or a disability pension, providing a lifetime monthly benefit, with additional support for dependents.

By taking advantage of these programs and credits, Quebec residents can maximize their financial well-being and better navigate the challenges posed by rising costs. It’s essential to stay informed about the eligibility criteria and payment dates for each benefit to ensure you receive the support you’re entitled to.

TCFFCA Magazine