Government Benefits & Support
Check federal and provincial benefits that may fit your situation as a newcomer to Canada.
Start here
Choose where you live first
Benefits, health coverage, and local support depend on your province or territory. Start there so you see the right next steps right away.
Western Canada
Central Canada
Atlantic Canada
Northern Territories
211 Helpline
Connect to local community and social services including food, housing, employment, and mental health support. Available 24/7 in most areas.
Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211.ca
Visit websiteFood Banks Canada
Find your nearest food bank. No documentation required at most locations. Many serve newcomers regardless of immigration status.
Visit foodbankscanada.ca to find locations
Visit websiteCrisis Services Canada
If you or someone you know is in crisis. Free, confidential support available 24/7 in multiple languages.
Call or text 9-8-8
Visit websiteEmergency Shelters
Temporary shelter for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Contact 211 to find shelters near you.
Dial 2-1-1 for nearest shelter
Visit websiteThe Salvation Army
Emergency food, shelter, clothing, and other support services across Canada. Open to all regardless of status.
Visit salvationarmy.ca for locations
Visit websiteChoose your province or territory first
Where you live changes local programs, timelines, and benefit amounts.
Selected province
British Columbia
Quick links
Jump to any province or territory, load it into the finder, and compare local programs more easily.
Province snapshot
Start with your province or territory to see local programs, then use the questionnaire below for matches based on your situation.
Federal programs
46 programs
Additional Canada Education Savings Grant (A-CESG)
Federal
Age Amount Tax Credit
Tax Credit
Allowance for the Survivor
Federal
BC Climate Action Tax Credit
Tax Credit
BC Renter's Tax Credit
Tax Credit
Bridging Programs for Internationally Trained Professionals
Federal
Provincial and territorial programs
12 programs
BC Bus Pass Program
Provincial
BC Employment and Assistance
Provincial
BC Family Benefit
Provincial
BC Home Owner Grant
Provincial
BC Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Benefits
Provincial
BC PharmaCare - Fair PharmaCare
Provincial
Find benefits that may fit your situationYour information is never stored. We use it only to match benefits for you.
Answer a few questions to see which benefits are worth checking first.
Step 1 of 5: What is your immigration status?
Tax Filing Tips for Newcomers
Filing your taxes unlocks most benefits. Here is what you need to know.
File even with $0 income
Many newcomers skip filing because they earned nothing. This is a mistake. Filing activates the GST/HST Credit, Canada Carbon Rebate, Canada Child Benefit, and provincial credits. You could be leaving $2,000+ per year on the table.
First tax return triggers GST/HST Credit payments
After filing your first return, the CRA typically takes 6-8 weeks to process. Payments start the quarter after assessment. If you file by April 30, expect your first GST/HST Credit payment in July.
CCB reduces as income rises (clawback thresholds)
The Canada Child Benefit is income-tested. For the 2025-2026 benefit year, families with adjusted net income above $37,487 see a gradual reduction. Above $81,222, the reduction rate increases. A family earning $50,000 with one child under 6 receives roughly $7,100/year instead of the $7,997 maximum.
Use Form RC151 as a newcomer
If this is your first year in Canada, complete Form RC151 (GST/HST Credit Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada). This registers you for the GST/HST Credit and other CRA-administered benefits without waiting for your first full tax return.
Keep all medical and moving receipts
The Medical Expense Tax Credit and Moving Expenses Deduction can save hundreds or thousands of dollars. Keep receipts for prescriptions, dental work, eyeglasses, physiotherapy, and any costs related to relocating for work or school.
Apply for advance CWB payments
If you are a low-income worker, do not wait until tax time. Submit Form RC201 to receive Canada Workers Benefit advance payments throughout the year instead of a lump sum at tax filing.
Canada Child Benefit Income Thresholds (2025-2026)
How your family income affects your CCB payments
| Adjusted Family Net Income | Reduction Rate (1 child) | Approx. Annual CCB (1 child under 6) |
|---|---|---|
| Under $37,487 | 0% (full benefit) | $7,997 |
| $37,487 - $81,222 | 7% of excess | ~$4,936 - $7,997 |
| $81,222 - $100,000 | additional 3.2% of excess | ~$4,335 - $4,936 |
| $100,000 - $150,000 | 3.2% of excess continues | ~$2,735 - $4,335 |
| Over $150,000 | Continues to reduce | Under $2,735 |
Amounts are approximate. Actual CCB depends on your province, number of children, and ages. Use the CRA Child and Family Benefits Calculator for an exact figure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about government benefits for newcomers
Can I receive Canadian benefits as a newcomer?
Permanent residents have access to most federal benefits immediately, including CCB, GST/HST credit, and EI (once enough work hours accumulated). Refugee claimants have access to some provincial social assistance. Temporary workers have limited access to federal benefits but can access EI.
Do I need to pay back benefits if I leave Canada?
You must report if you leave Canada for extended periods. CCB, OAS, and some other benefits require Canadian residency. EI has rules about being available to work in Canada. Always report changes in your situation to the issuing agency.
What is the difference between federal and provincial benefits?
Federal benefits (CCB, GST/HST, CPP, EI) are available across Canada and managed by CRA or Service Canada. Provincial benefits (social assistance, housing subsidies, childcare subsidies) vary significantly by province and are managed locally.
Will receiving benefits affect my immigration application?
For most newcomers, receiving benefits you are legally entitled to does NOT negatively affect immigration applications. However, those sponsored by a family member should understand the sponsorship undertaking, and some applicants may want to discuss with an immigration consultant.
How do I find out what benefits I qualify for?
Use the Benefits Finder at canada.ca/benefits-finder. It asks questions about your situation and shows applicable federal, provincial, and territorial programs. Settlement agencies can also help you identify benefits.
Do I need to file taxes even if I earned zero income?
Yes. Filing a tax return with $0 income is critical for newcomers. It activates benefits like the GST/HST Credit, Canada Carbon Rebate, Canada Child Benefit, and many provincial credits. Without filing, the CRA cannot assess your eligibility and you will miss out on payments you are entitled to.
Can I receive benefits while on a work permit?
Work permit holders can access EI (after enough insurable hours), CPP contributions, and some tax credits like the GST/HST Credit after filing taxes. You are generally not eligible for CCB, provincial social assistance, or most income-tested benefits until you become a permanent resident.
What is the First Home Savings Account (FHSA) and can newcomers use it?
The FHSA is a tax-advantaged savings account for first-time home buyers. You can contribute up to $8,000/year (max $40,000 lifetime), deduct contributions from income, and withdraw tax-free to buy a qualifying home. Permanent residents and citizens who have not owned a home in the past 4 years are eligible.
How long does it take to start receiving the Canada Child Benefit?
Processing takes up to 11 weeks from when you submit Form RC66. You should apply as soon as you arrive in Canada with children. Back payments can be issued to when you became eligible, so do not delay applying.
What is the difference between OAS and CPP?
CPP (Canada Pension Plan) is based on your employment contributions while working in Canada. OAS (Old Age Security) is a residency-based pension available at 65+ to those who have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18. You can receive both.
Can I use a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) as a newcomer?
Yes, if you are a permanent resident or citizen approved for the Disability Tax Credit. The government provides grants matching your contributions (up to $3,500/year) and bonds for low-income individuals (up to $1,000/year) without needing to contribute anything.
What happens to my benefits if I move to a different province?
Federal benefits like CCB and GST/HST continue, but amounts may change based on provincial top-ups. Provincial benefits will end and you must apply for the new province's programs. Update your address with CRA and your new provincial health authority promptly.
Are there benefits specifically for international students?
International students have limited access to government benefits. You can access provincial health insurance in some provinces, the GST/HST Credit (after filing taxes), and emergency services. You are generally not eligible for CCB, CWB, or provincial social assistance until you gain permanent residency.
What benefits are available in the territories (Yukon, NWT, Nunavut)?
All federal benefits apply in the territories, and residents also qualify for the Northern Residents Deduction (worth $4,015+/year). Each territory has its own income assistance, extended health benefits, and childcare programs. The cost of living is significantly higher in northern communities, so benefit amounts are often adjusted upward to reflect this.
Can I receive benefits from my home country and Canada at the same time?
Canada has social security agreements with over 60 countries that prevent double coverage and allow you to combine periods of contribution. For pensions (CPP/OAS), you may be able to combine Canadian and foreign work years to meet eligibility. Contact Service Canada to check if your home country has an agreement.
What is the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) and when does it start?
The CDB is a new federal income supplement for working-age Canadians (18-64) with disabilities. It launched in July 2025 and provides up to $200/month. You must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit and file your taxes to receive it. The benefit is income-tested and phases out at higher income levels.
How do I apply for benefits if I do not have a Social Insurance Number yet?
Most benefits require a SIN. Apply for your SIN immediately upon arriving in Canada at a Service Canada office. For the CCB, you can use a temporary tax number (ITN) on Form RC66 while waiting for your SIN. Settlement agencies can help you navigate applications while your documents are being processed.
Are sponsored immigrants eligible for benefits?
Family-sponsored immigrants (PRs) can access most federal benefits including CCB, GST/HST Credit, and EI. However, the sponsor has a legal undertaking to provide financial support, so the sponsored person is generally not eligible for provincial social assistance during the undertaking period (3-20 years depending on the relationship). This does not affect tax credits or contributory benefits like EI.
What childcare subsidies exist beyond the $10/day program?
Each province offers additional childcare subsidies beyond the federal CWELCC ($10/day) program. These are typically income-tested and cover a portion of remaining childcare fees. In Quebec, CPE spots are $10.40/day. BC, Ontario, and Alberta have income-tested subsidy programs that can reduce costs further. Check your province's childcare ministry for specific programs.
What should I apply for first when I arrive in Canada?
In order of priority: (1) Social Insurance Number (SIN) at a Service Canada office, (2) Provincial health card, (3) Bank account, (4) Canada Child Benefit if you have children (Form RC66), (5) File your taxes as soon as possible, even with $0 income, to activate GST/HST Credit and other benefits. Settlement agencies can walk you through this process for free.
Can I appeal if my benefit application is denied?
Yes. Most government programs have an appeal or review process. For CRA-administered benefits (CCB, GST/HST), you can request a formal review. For EI, you can appeal to the Social Security Tribunal. For provincial programs, contact the issuing office to understand their reconsideration process. Settlement agencies and legal aid clinics can help with appeals at no cost.
Are heating or energy assistance programs available for newcomers?
Yes. Most provinces offer heating or energy assistance for low-income households regardless of immigration status. Programs include Nova Scotia HARP, New Brunswick Home Energy Assistance, PEI Heating Assistance, NL Home Heating Rebate, Ontario OESP (electricity), and similar programs in other provinces. Apply before winter, as some programs have seasonal deadlines.
What is a TFSA and can newcomers open one?
A Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) lets you save and invest money tax-free. You can contribute up to $7,000/year (2024). You start accumulating TFSA room only from the year you become a Canadian resident and are 18+. Permanent residents and citizens can open one at any bank. Unlike an RRSP, withdrawals are completely tax-free and do not affect benefit eligibility.
What is the Canada Caregiver Credit and who can claim it?
The Canada Caregiver Credit is a non-refundable tax credit for people supporting a dependant with a physical or mental impairment. This can include a spouse, minor child, parent, grandparent, or other relative. The maximum claim is about $7,999 (worth roughly $1,200 in tax savings). You need a signed statement from a medical practitioner confirming the impairment. Claim it on your annual tax return.
What EI benefits exist for people who need to care for sick family members?
Canada offers several EI caregiving benefits: (1) Family Caregiver Benefit for Adults provides up to 26 weeks at 55% of earnings for caring for a critically ill adult family member. (2) Family Caregiver Benefit for Children provides up to 35 weeks for caring for a critically ill child. (3) Compassionate Care Benefits provide up to 26 weeks for caring for a family member who is at risk of death within 26 weeks. All require 600+ insurable hours and a medical certificate.
How can I reduce food costs in northern Canada?
The federal Nutrition North Canada program subsidizes the cost of nutritious food and essential items in eligible isolated northern communities. The subsidy is applied automatically at checkout at participating retailers, so no application is needed. Savings can be $1,000-$3,000+ per year depending on your community. Check the Nutrition North Canada website to see if your community is eligible and which retailers participate.
What seniors benefits are available in the territories (YT, NT, NU)?
Each territory offers seniors-specific benefits beyond the federal OAS and GIS: Yukon has the Senior Income Supplement and Pioneer Utility Grant (up to $1,200/year for utilities). NWT has the Senior Citizen Home Heating Subsidy (up to $2,100/year). Nunavut has a Senior Fuel Subsidy (up to $3,600/year due to extreme heating costs). All territories also have extended health benefits covering prescriptions, dental, and medical travel. The Northern Residents Deduction also provides significant tax savings.
Is childcare available in the territories?
Yes. All three territories participate in the federal $10/day childcare program (CWELCC). Yukon has achieved $10/day rates, and NWT is implementing them. Each territory also offers additional income-tested childcare subsidies that can further reduce costs for low-income families. Availability of licensed spaces may be limited in smaller and remote communities, so apply early.
What is the Child Disability Benefit and how do I get it?
The Child Disability Benefit (CDB) is an additional monthly payment added to the Canada Child Benefit for families caring for a child with a severe and prolonged disability. It provides up to $3,411/year ($284.25/month) per eligible child for the 2025-2026 benefit year. To receive it, your child must first be approved for the Disability Tax Credit by submitting Form T2201 signed by a medical practitioner. Once the DTC is approved, the CDB is added automatically to your CCB payments. There is no separate application.
Can I receive CPP if I become disabled before retirement age?
Yes. The CPP Disability Benefit provides monthly payments to CPP contributors who have a severe and prolonged disability that prevents them from working. The average payment is $1,132/month (maximum $1,606/month in 2025). You must have contributed to CPP in 4 of the last 6 years. Children of CPP disability recipients also receive $301.77/month each. Apply through Service Canada using form ISP-1151. Processing takes 4-6 months.
What happens to my spouse's CPP if they pass away?
If your spouse or common-law partner contributed to CPP and passes away, you may be eligible for the CPP Survivor's Pension. This provides up to $859.80/month if you are 65+ or $754.85/month if under 65. Dependent children can also receive $301.77/month each. There is also a one-time CPP death benefit of up to $2,500. Apply to Service Canada with the death certificate and proof of your relationship. Benefits are retroactive to the month after death.
Do refugees have to repay immigration loans?
Yes, but the terms are manageable. The Immigration Loans Program covers travel, medical exams, and the right of permanent residence fee. Loans are interest-free for the first 12 months after arrival. After that, interest accrues at the government's rate. Repayment is expected within 6 years, but Service Canada can adjust the payment schedule based on your financial situation. Contact the Immigration Loans Call Centre at 1-800-667-7301 if you need to change your repayment terms.
What extra RESP grants are available for low-income families?
Beyond the basic 20% CESG (up to $500/year), low-income families can receive the Additional CESG: an extra 10-20% on the first $500 contributed annually. Families with net income under $55,867 get 20% extra ($100), and income between $55,867-$111,733 gets 10% extra ($50). The Canada Learning Bond also provides up to $2,000 with no personal contribution needed. Combined, a low-income family could receive $600+/year in free RESP grants.
How does the Ontario LIFT Credit work for newcomer workers?
The Ontario Low-Income Individuals and Families Tax (LIFT) Credit reduces or eliminates provincial income tax for Ontario workers earning under $50,000 individually (or $82,500 family income). It provides up to $875/year in tax relief. It is claimed automatically when you file your Ontario tax return. Newcomers who work in Ontario and file taxes can benefit from their first year of employment.
What prescription drug coverage exists for seniors across provinces?
Every province offers some form of prescription drug coverage for seniors 65+. Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) covers 5,000+ drugs with a co-pay of $2-$6.11. BC Fair PharmaCare has income-based deductibles. Alberta Seniors Benefit includes drug coverage. Quebec RAMQ is mandatory for those without private insurance. Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Atlantic provinces all have seniors drug programs. Most require only your health card at the pharmacy. File your taxes to ensure income-based programs assess you correctly.
Is there a tax credit for renters in BC?
Yes. Starting from the 2024 tax year, BC introduced the BC Renter's Tax Credit providing up to $400/year for renters. The full credit is available for individuals earning under $60,000, with a reduced amount for higher incomes. You claim it when filing your BC income tax return by reporting the total rent you paid during the year. No separate application is needed. This is commonly overlooked by newcomers.
Can I get help making my home more accessible for a disability?
Yes. The federal Home Accessibility Tax Credit (HATC) provides a 15% tax credit on up to $20,000 in eligible renovation expenses, saving up to $3,000 in taxes. Eligible renovations include wheelchair ramps, walk-in tubs, grab bars, widened doorways, and lowered countertops. You must be 65+ or qualify for the Disability Tax Credit. Keep all receipts and claim on your tax return. Some provinces also have additional grants for accessibility renovations.
What tax credits are available specifically for seniors?
Seniors 65+ can claim several important tax credits: (1) Age Amount Credit, worth up to $1,319 in federal tax savings. (2) Pension Income Credit on the first $2,000 of eligible pension income. (3) Home Accessibility Tax Credit for accessibility renovations. (4) Pension income splitting with a spouse to reduce combined taxes. (5) Medical Expense Tax Credit for out-of-pocket health costs. Plus provincial seniors credits vary by province (e.g., Ontario GAINS, Alberta Seniors Benefit). File your taxes to receive these automatically.
Are there programs to help newcomers with post-secondary education costs?
Yes. Each province has its own student aid program: Ontario has OSAP, Alberta has Alberta Student Aid, and other provinces have similar programs offering grants and loans. The Saskatchewan Graduate Retention Program provides up to $20,000 in tax credits for graduates who stay in SK. The New Brunswick Tuition Tax Rebate offers up to $10,000 over time. At the federal level, the Canada Training Credit helps workers offset training costs. Permanent residents are generally eligible for provincial student aid.
How does pension income splitting work for couples?
If you or your spouse receive eligible pension income (employer pension, RRIF at 65+), you can allocate up to 50% of that income to the lower-income spouse for tax purposes. This can significantly reduce your combined tax bill by moving income from a higher tax bracket to a lower one. Both spouses must agree and file Form T1032 with their tax returns. This works even if the pension is paid entirely to one spouse. A tax professional can help calculate the optimal split.
Can I deduct the cost of moving to a new city for work?
Yes. If you moved at least 40 km closer to a new job or post-secondary school, you can deduct moving costs including transportation, temporary housing (up to 15 days), travel meals, lease cancellation fees, and real estate costs. Use Form T1-M when filing your taxes. You can only deduct against income earned at the new location, but unused amounts carry forward. This is especially valuable for newcomers who relocate within Canada for work.
What is the difference between the GST/HST Credit and the Canada Carbon Rebate?
They are two separate quarterly payments from the CRA. The GST/HST Credit offsets the sales tax you pay and is available in all provinces (up to $533/year single). The Canada Carbon Rebate (formerly Climate Action Incentive) offsets the federal carbon tax and is only available in provinces with federal carbon pricing (AB, SK, MB, ON, NB, NS, PE, NL). Both require you to file your tax return to receive them. Together they can provide $800-$2,300/year for a family.
What should newcomers know about property tax reductions?
Several provinces offer property tax relief. BC has the Home Owner Grant (up to $845/year for seniors). Ontario has the Senior Homeowners Property Tax Grant (up to $500/year) and the Energy and Property Tax Credit (up to $1,194/year). Manitoba has the Education Property Tax Credit (up to $1,100 for seniors). These are often claimed through your annual tax return. If you rent, you may also qualify for rent-based credits that treat a portion of your rent as equivalent to property tax.
How do I know if my community qualifies for northern benefits?
The CRA maintains a list of prescribed northern zones (full deduction) and intermediate zones (50% deduction). If you have lived in an eligible zone for at least 6 consecutive months, you can claim the Northern Residents Deduction worth $11/day in the northern zone ($4,015/year) or $5.50/day in the intermediate zone. Most communities in Yukon, NWT, and Nunavut qualify. Northern parts of BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec also have eligible zones. Check the CRA's Northern Zone list or use Form T2222.
What housing subsidies exist beyond social housing waitlists?
Most provinces offer rental assistance programs separate from social housing waitlists. Saskatchewan has the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit (up to $400/month). BC has the Rental Assistance Program for families and SAFER for seniors. Manitoba has Rent Assist. Quebec has the Shelter Allowance Program. Ontario has the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit. These are typically income-tested and application-based, with much shorter wait times than social housing. Check your provincial housing authority for specific programs.
Are there health benefits for children in low-income families beyond provincial health cards?
Yes. Alberta has the Alberta Child Health Benefit covering dental, vision, prescriptions, and ambulance for children in low-income families. Ontario has Healthy Smiles (dental for children under 18) and OHIP+ (free prescriptions for those under 25). The federal Canadian Dental Care Plan now covers children in families earning under $90,000. Many provinces also have supplementary health programs for children on social assistance. Check with your provincial health authority.
What financial help exists for seniors who need to modify their homes?
The federal Home Accessibility Tax Credit provides up to $3,000 in tax savings on $20,000 of eligible accessibility renovations. Alberta has the Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Program with grants up to $5,000 and loans up to $40,000. BC offers the Home Adaptations for Independence program. Ontario has grants through the Ontario Renovates program. Many municipalities also offer home repair grants for seniors. Contact your provincial seniors services office for local programs.
Can I get student financial assistance as a newcomer in any province?
Yes. Every province has a student financial assistance program that permanent residents can access. Alberta Student Aid, OSAP (Ontario), Manitoba Student Aid, NS Student Assistance, NB Student Financial Services, PEI StudentAid, and NL Student Financial Assistance all accept PR applicants. Most combine federal (Canada Student Grants and Loans) with provincial funding in a single application. Apply at least 60 days before your program starts. Many provinces also offer non-repayable grants and bursaries for low-income students.
What dental programs exist for seniors in Ontario?
Ontario has the Seniors Dental Care Program providing free dental care for seniors 65+ with income under $22,200 (single) or $37,100 (couple) and no dental insurance. The federal Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) also covers seniors with family income under $90,000 who lack private dental insurance. If you are on ODSP or Ontario Works, dental coverage is included. Apply for both provincial and federal programs to maximize your coverage.
What is the difference between provincial disability programs and the federal Disability Tax Credit?
The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a federal tax credit that reduces your income tax. Provincial disability programs (like ODSP in Ontario, PWD in BC, AISH in Alberta, NS Disability Support) provide monthly income assistance and health benefits. You can receive both. The DTC is claimed on your tax return and can unlock other benefits like the Canada Disability Benefit, RDSP grants, and the Child Disability Benefit. Provincial programs have their own application and medical assessment process separate from the DTC.