FinLII

Am I missing money I’m entitled to?

Get the benefits you’re owed

For most benefits, your tax return is the application, even with little or no income. Find the ones worth checking, file for free and know when the money arrives.

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What’s in this journey · 7 steps, about 20 min
  1. 1Why filing paysAnnotated explainer
  2. 2Find benefits worth checkingBenefit finder
  3. 3File for freeEligibility checker
  4. 4Get ready and know the datesChecklist and timeline
  5. 5Spot fake benefit messagesWould the CRA send this?
  6. 6Check what stuckQuick check
  7. 7Your plan and where to get helpChecklist and directory
You’ll leave with
  • A shortlist of benefits worth checking, and how each is claimed
  • A free way to file that fits your situation
  • A dated plan for this tax season
Annotated explainer · 1 min

Why filing pays

First, a gut check. You’ll answer the same question at the end.

How sure are you that you’re getting every benefit you’re entitled to?
Canada Child Benefit noticeBenefit year: July 2026 to June 2027
Sample
RecipientAmira K.
Calculated from12025 tax return
Adjusted family net income2$28,000.00
Children under 61
Children aged 6 to 170
Annual benefit3$8,157.00
Monthly payment$679.75
Important 4To keep receiving payments after June 2027, file your 2026 return by April 30, 2027.
  1. 1Built from your tax returnNo return, no calculation. That’s why filing matters even with little or no income.
  2. 2Income sets the amountFamilies with adjusted net income up to $38,237 get the full amount. Above that it shrinks gradually.
  3. 3Up to $8,157 a yearFor each child under 6, paid monthly and tax-free. Up to $6,883 for each child aged 6 to 17.
  4. 4It runs on last year’s returnThe benefit year starts in July. Skip a year of filing and payments can stop.
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