Most recently updated on June 12, 2025, at 9:11 AM EDT (Toronto local time). The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has launched an innovative online application system for newcomers to Canada, simplifying the process of receiving benefit and credit payments. This new initiative allows new residents to easily access various financial supports, including the GST/HST Credit, the Canada Carbon Rebate (now discontinued), and the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), without the need for mailing forms or visiting a postal service. These benefits can greatly help reduce living costs, whether you are an individual, a couple, or a parent. This detailed guide will outline how the CRA’s online application form functions, eligibility criteria for these benefits, the application procedure, and why this resource is crucial for newcomers. Let’s explore how this new tool can facilitate a smoother and more cost-effective transition to life in Canada. Moving to Canada comes with considerable costs, including housing, transportation, and everyday expenses. To assist with these expenses, the Canadian government provides various benefit and credit payments, especially aimed at low- and middle-income individuals. These payments are determined by factors such as income, family size, and residency status to ensure that the assistance meets individual circumstances. The CRA has introduced a new online application form that streamlines the process, making it quicker and easier for newcomers to access the benefits they are eligible for. Whether you have just moved or are still in the process of settling in, these payments can offer financial support to help you succeed in your new environment. The CRA has multiple programs designed to aid newcomers, including: GST/HST Credit: This is a tax-exempt payment made quarterly to assist individuals and families with low to moderate income in covering the expenses of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). In the 2025 benefit year, single individuals may receive as much as $20,253 per year, while married or common-law couples can receive up to $680. Additionally, families with children under the age of 19 can get an extra $179 for each child. Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR): This is a refundable credit aimed at helping to alleviate the costs associated with federal pollution pricing. The federal government has now ended this benefit following Mark Carney’s removal of the carbon tax. This payment was accessible to residents of provinces where the federal carbon pricing system was in effect. The last CCR payment for 2025 was disbursed on April 22, although newcomers who qualify can still apply for retroactive payments. Verify with CRA.. The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a monthly, tax-exempt payment for families with children under the age of 18. It encompasses federal, provincial, and territorial elements, offering considerable support for parents. For the benefit year of 2025-2026, the maximum annual payment for children under six will be raised to $7,553 (a slight decrease from $7,787), and for those aged six to 17, it will increase to $393,383 (up from $373,363). These benefits are intended to assist newcomers with expenses such as groceries and childcare, facilitating a smoother adjustment to life in Canada. In a major update towards modernization, the CRA has done away with paper applications in favor of a more accessible online form. This digital platform enables newcomers to apply for benefits like the GST/HST Credit and CCR in just 353 minutes, without the need to send documents or visit a postal office. Here’s a detailed guide on how to navigate the new system. Collect Necessary Information: Prior to beginning, make sure you possess your Social Insurance Number (SIN), documentation confirming your residency, and income information for the last 343 months. If you have children, you’ll also need to provide their birth certificates or equivalent proof. To apply for benefits, you’ll need to provide identification such as a birth certificate or passport. Begin by accessing the online form on the CRA’s official website for newcomers or by logging into your My CRA Account portal. The online form is user-friendly, providing clear guidance for each section. Fill out your application with personal information, residency status, and income details. If you have children, make sure to include their information to qualify for extra benefits like the CCB. After submitting your application, you can check its status in the My CRA Account portal. The CRA will evaluate your eligibility and inform you of the benefit amounts you qualify for. This efficient process is a significant enhancement, helping to save time and lessen the paperwork load for newcomers who are already facing a challenging transition. Newcomers must meet certain requirements to be eligible for these benefits.