Canada child benefit for new immigrants

The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help with the cost of raising children under the age of 18. As a new immigrant to Canada, you may be eligible for the CCB, but there are some specific requirements and considerations to keep in mind.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for the CCB, you must:

  1. Be a resident of Canada.
  2. Have a child under the age of 18.
  3. Have a net income below a certain threshold (which varies depending on family size and province of residence).
  4. Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a protected person (refugee claimant or a person who has been granted refugee status).

Additional requirements for new immigrants:

As a new immigrant, you may need to provide additional documentation to prove your immigration status and residency in Canada. This may include:

  1. Proof of permanent resident status (e.g., Confirmation of Permanent Residence document or a valid permanent resident card).
  2. Proof of residency in Canada (e.g., utility bills, lease agreement, or a letter from your employer).

How to apply:

To apply for the CCB, you will need to:

  1. File your taxes: You must file your taxes with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to claim the CCB. You can use the CRA's online tax filing system, NETFILE, or consult with a tax professional.
  2. Complete the CCB application: You will need to complete the CCB application form (T1 General) and attach any required documentation, such as proof of immigration status and residency.
  3. Submit your application: Submit your completed application and supporting documents to the CRA.

Tips for new immigrants:

  1. Apply as soon as possible: The CCB is a monthly payment, so it's essential to apply as soon as possible to ensure you receive your benefits on time.
  2. Keep records: Keep all documentation and records related to your immigration status, residency, and CCB application, as you may need to provide them to the CRA or other government agencies.
  3. Consult with a tax professional: If you're unsure about the application process or have complex tax situations, consider consulting with a tax professional who is familiar with immigration and tax laws in Canada.

Additional resources:

For more information on the Canada Child Benefit and how to apply, you can visit the CRA's website or contact the CRA's toll-free number at 1-800-959-8281. You can also consult with a local immigration settlement agency or a non-profit organization that provides support to new immigrants in Canada.