Your Guide to Government Support in Canada – 2025

Unlock the benefits and resources available to you from the Canadian government.

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Federal Financial Benefits

Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

A tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help them with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age. Tailored to your family income.

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GST/HST Credit

A tax-free quarterly payment that helps individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax.

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Old Age Security (OAS) Pension

A monthly payment available to most Canadians aged 65 and older who meet the Canadian legal status and residency requirements.

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Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)

An additional monthly benefit for low-income OAS recipients living in Canada, providing vital financial support to seniors.

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Climate Action Incentive Payment

A tax-free amount paid to help individuals and families offset the cost of the federal carbon pollution pricing. Available in specific provinces.

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Disability Tax Credit (DTC)

A non-refundable tax credit that helps reduce the income tax burden for individuals with severe and prolonged mental or physical impairments.

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Provincial Support Programs

Each province and territory in Canada offers unique programs tailored to the needs of its residents. While we can't detect your exact location for this demo, here are some examples of widely sought-after provincial supports.

Ontario Works

Provides financial assistance and employment support to eligible Ontario residents in temporary financial need.

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Alberta Income Support

Offers financial assistance to Albertans who don't have enough money to meet their basic needs or those of their families.

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BC Income Assistance

Provides financial assistance to eligible British Columbians who need help with living costs and finding employment.

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Rental & Housing Assistance (CMHC)

Various federal and provincial programs, often supported by CMHC, help Canadians access affordable housing and rental subsidies.

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Free Tax Help & Filing

Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP)

Free tax clinics across Canada for eligible individuals with modest income and a simple tax situation. Get your returns filed accurately.

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Tax Clinics Near You

Locate a CVITP clinic or other community organizations offering free tax assistance in your local area. Support is often available during tax season.

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What Documents You Need

Essential documents for tax filing include T4 slips, medical expense receipts, charitable donation receipts, and other income/deduction records.

Check List

Help for Students, Seniors, People with Disabilities

Scholarships & Student Aid (e.g., OSAP)

Various federal and provincial programs, like OSAP in Ontario, offer loans, grants, and scholarships to help students finance their post-secondary education.

Explore Student Aid

Assistive Housing & Care

Programs designed to support seniors and individuals with disabilities, providing access to adapted housing solutions and care services.

Find Resources

Provincial Pharmacare Programs

Many provinces offer drug benefit programs to help residents cover the cost of prescription medications, especially for seniors and low-income individuals.

Check Provincial Programs

Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)

A long-term savings plan for people with disabilities, supported by government grants and bonds to help ensure financial security.

Learn About RDSP

Safe Government-backed Investment Options

CPP Investments

Manages the assets of the Canada Pension Plan, investing on behalf of 21 million contributors and beneficiaries. A key part of retirement security.

Visit CPP Investments

Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs)

Offered by Canadian banks and credit unions, GICs are low-risk investments with guaranteed returns, often covered by deposit insurance (CDIC or provincial equivalents).

Learn About CDIC

Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) Projects

Invests in revenue-generating infrastructure projects that serve the public interest, offering stable, long-term investment opportunities.

Explore CIB

Green Bonds Canada

A Government of Canada initiative, these bonds allow investors to support environmental projects while earning a return. Ideal for sustainable investing.

Learn About Green Bonds

Official & Trusted Sources

We encourage you to visit these authoritative government and non-profit websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information directly from the source.

All Benefits & Payments

canada.ca/en/services/benefits

CRA / Taxes & Credits

canada.ca/en/revenue-agency

Social Services

211.ca

Immigrant Aid

settlement.org

CVITP / Free Tax Help

canada.ca/taxes-help

Investments / Pensions

cppinvestments.com

About AllCanadaHelp

AllCanadaHelp is dedicated to empowering Canadians with clear, reliable information about government support and financial resources. Our mission is to simplify the process of finding and accessing the benefits you're entitled to in 2025 and beyond.

Sophie Levesque

Written by Sophie Levesque

Registered Social Worker

Contributor to Ontario newcomer support centres

Sophie Levesque is a highly respected Registered Social Worker with over a decade of experience dedicated to public service. Her profound understanding of Canadian social programs and her commitment to community welfare make her an invaluable resource for this guide. Sophie's work with newcomer support centres has given her unique insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by diverse populations seeking government assistance.

Get Your Free Canada Support Handbook 2025!

Discover all the government programs, benefits, and financial aid available to you in Canada. Our comprehensive handbook is packed with checklists, eligibility criteria, and application tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can get the GST/HST Credit?

The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment that helps individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax that they pay. Eligibility is based on your adjusted family net income and is automatically determined when you file your annual income tax return. You generally don't need to apply for it.

How do I apply for Ontario Works?

To apply for Ontario Works, you can start online through the Ontario government website or visit your local municipal social services office. You will need to provide personal identification, proof of income and assets, and details about your living situation. An interview will typically be scheduled to discuss your eligibility and needs.

Can immigrants apply for housing benefit?

Yes, many housing benefits and rental assistance programs in Canada are available to immigrants and newcomers, provided they meet specific residency and income criteria. Programs like the Canada Housing Benefit or various provincial/territorial housing initiatives aim to make housing more affordable. It's best to check the specific eligibility requirements for programs in your province or municipality.

What is the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and how do I apply?

The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a non-refundable tax credit that helps reduce the income tax burden for individuals with severe and prolonged mental or physical impairments. To apply, a medical practitioner must certify that you meet the eligibility criteria by completing Part B of Form T2201, Disability Tax Credit Certificate. You then submit this form to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for approval.

Are there free tax clinics available for low-income Canadians?

Yes, the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) offers free tax clinics across Canada for eligible individuals with modest income and a simple tax situation. These clinics are run by volunteers who prepare income tax and benefit returns. You can find clinics near you by visiting the CRA website or calling 211.

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