The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) provides essential financial support through various benefit programs aimed at helping families, individuals, and other specific groups manage their financial obligations.
Being aware of the CRA payment dates is crucial for timely receipt of these benefits, enabling you to plan your budget more effectively and avoid any potential delays.
This article outlines the CRA payment schedule for 2024, covering important benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST Credit, Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB), and more.
By staying informed, you can ensure that your payments arrive on time and manage your finances efficiently.
CRA Benefits Payment Dates 2024
The following are the key CRA payment dates for 2024, which include various benefits:
| Month | Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | GST/HST Credit | Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) | Canada Carbon Rebate | Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) | Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| November | 20 November | – | 8 November | – | – | 27 November |
| December | 13 December | – | 10 December | – | – | – |
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a monthly, tax-free payment to families with children under 18.
This benefit helps ease the financial burden of raising children.
The amount varies based on factors like the number and age of children and the family’s income level.
GST/HST Credit
The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit is a quarterly benefit aimed at assisting low-income individuals and families by offsetting some of the costs of consumption taxes, such as the GST/HST.
Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) combines three key credits: the Ontario Sales Tax Credit, the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, and the Northern Ontario Energy Credit.
This program helps reduce the financial burden of property and energy expenses for eligible individuals and families.
Canada Carbon Rebate
The Canada Carbon Rebate provides quarterly payments to individuals and families to help offset the cost of carbon pricing.
The aim is to alleviate the financial impact of carbon taxes while encouraging Canadians to reduce their carbon footprint.
Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB)
The ACWB is a monthly payment designed to support low-income workers.
It supplements the earnings of individuals and families who are employed, helping to alleviate poverty and encourage employment.
Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB)
The Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB) is a quarterly payment that supports families in Alberta with children under 18.
This benefit assists in covering the cost of raising children and provides financial relief to eligible families.
Reasons for Delays in CRA Payments
Several factors can cause delays in receiving CRA payments.
Common reasons include:
Weekend or Holiday Payment Schedule
If a scheduled payment date falls on a weekend or public holiday, payments will be processed on the next business day, leading to a slight delay.
Changes in Personal Circumstances
Changes such as moving, changes in family status, or income adjustments can affect eligibility for benefits, resulting in delays.
Errors in Tax Returns or Reassessments
Incorrect tax filings or required reassessments can delay the processing of benefits.
Incomplete or Incorrect Information
Providing incorrect or missing details on applications can delay the issuance of benefits.
Recipient’s Passing
In cases where the recipient passes away, the CRA may adjust payments, causing delays.
Bank Processing Delays
Even if the CRA processes payments on time, delays can occur at your bank.
System Errors
Occasionally, issues with the CRA’s systems can delay the processing of payments.
Postal Delays for Cheque Payments
If benefits are issued by cheque, delays in postal services can affect when payments are received.
How to Check CRA Payment Status
To check the status of your CRA payments, follow these steps:
Sign In to Your CRA Account
Go to the CRA website and log in to your online account.
If you’re an individual, use “My Account.”
Businesses should log in to “My Business Account.”
Navigate to the Payment Section
For individuals, select “Accounts and payments” to view your balance, available payments, and instalment payments.
Businesses should select “View and pay the account balance.”
Review Payment Status
Check the listed payments to confirm that your payments have been received and correctly applied.
If payments are not assigned to a specific tax year, they will appear under “Available payment(s).”
Contact the CRA for Assistance
If you encounter issues or cannot access your account, contact the CRA by phone for further assistance.
Ensure enough time has passed for payment processing typically three business days for online payments and 10 business days plus mailing time for cheques.
By staying on top of your CRA benefits schedule and payment status, you can avoid delays and ensure that your financial needs are met in a timely manner.
