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The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — And It's Paying 25% More

  Sunday, July 19, 2026 If you've relied on the quarterly GST/HST credit, that name is gone for good. Here's what replaced it, how much more it's worth, and whether you need to do anything to get it. For years, the GST/HST credit quietly landed in millions of Canadian bank accounts every three months — a modest, tax-free top-up meant to offset sales tax on everyday purchases. As of this month, that program no longer exists under its old name. It's now the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) , and the federal government has permanently increased the payment by 25%, locked in for five years. If you already qualified for the GST/HST credit, you don't need to apply for anything new. But you should know what changed, because the numbers — and the timeline — are more involved than a simple rename. What actually changed The CGEB was first announced by the federal government in January 2026 as part of a broader affordability push, and it became law with the passa...

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Canadian Housing Market Enters Winter Hibernation: What You Need to Know

 


According to a recent news article, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) has reported that home sales in Canada have slowed down in October, with a 5.6% decline compared to September. The article also mentions that both buyers and sellers appear to be holding off for the time being, with some sellers shelving their plans until next spring.

The causes of the slowdown are attributed to various factors, such as higher interest rates, tighter lending rules, rising home prices, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy and consumer confidence. The article also notes that some regions of British Columbia are starting to see softening in average home prices, while average home price declines are still uncommon throughout most of Canada’s major cities.

Despite the slowdown, the Canadian housing market remains active, with 33,921 homes sold in Canada in October, up 0.9% compared with the same month last year. The national average home price rose 1.8% year-over-year to $656,625.

If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in Canada, it’s advisable to keep an eye on the market trends and consult with a licensed real estate agent or mortgage broker. They can provide you with valuable insights and advice on how to navigate the current market conditions and make informed decisions.


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