As Canadians continue to face soaring grocery prices, escalating housing costs, and an overall rising cost of living, many are struggling to make ends meet. The financial strain is especially tough on families, with food bank usage hitting record highs and increasing unemployment further exacerbating the situation. Fortunately, there are several financial benefits available to help ease some of this pressure in March 2025.
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If you’re eligible for any of these government payments, it’s important to ensure your direct deposit is set up to receive these funds promptly. Here’s a breakdown of the financial relief you can expect this March:
1. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
For Canadian parents eligible for child tax payments, March 20 will bring much-needed relief. The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is designed to help offset the costs of raising children, and parents will see their payments arrive on that date.
In the summer of 2024, child tax payments were boosted by 4.7%. As a result, the maximum benefit for children under six increased by $350, bringing it from $7,437 to $7,787. For children aged six to 17, the benefit was boosted by $295, rising from $6,275 to $6,570.
What’s more, a further increase is coming in July 2025, when the new benefit year begins, giving Canadian families an even larger boost.
In January 2025, the CCB underwent a significant rule change, and further payment dates for the year have been confirmed, including the one in March.
2. B.C. Family Benefit and Bonus
Residents of British Columbia are in line to receive the provincial Family Benefit on March 20, along with an additional bonus. The B.C. Family Benefit has been further bolstered with a 25% bonus, which began in July 2024 and will continue until June 2025.
This provincial benefit is paid monthly to approximately 340,000 families with children across the province. Payments are made either by direct deposit or through mailed cheques.
Eligible families can receive:
- $2,188 for their first child
- $1,375 for their second child
- $1,125 for each additional child.
The B.C. Family Benefit will be paid alongside the federal CCB, providing a timely financial boost to B.C. families in March.
3. Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
Ontario residents can expect the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) on March 10, 2025. The OTB is a combined tax-free payment that includes three key credits:
- The Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
- The Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
- The Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
To qualify for the OTB, you must be eligible for at least one of these credits.
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit: Eligible individuals can receive a maximum of $1,248 if they’re between 18 and 64 years old. Seniors aged 65 or older are eligible for up to $1,421. There are additional amounts for those living on reserves or in long-term care homes.
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit: Singles can receive up to $180, while families may be eligible for up to $277.
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit: This provides a maximum of $360 to eligible individuals, with an additional $360 available for a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child under 19 years old.
These payments aim to help Ontario residents manage the rising cost of living, especially for those struggling with energy or property tax expenses.
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For many Canadians, these financial boosts in March will provide a much-needed reprieve during challenging times. Whether through the Canada Child Benefit, provincial family bonuses, or the Ontario Trillium Benefit, these payments are designed to ease the burden of high living costs and help ensure that families can maintain some financial stability. Be sure to check your eligibility and have your direct deposit set up to receive these payments promptly.
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