With the start of 2025, Quebec residents can expect various government payments and credits aimed at providing financial relief. From provincial programs like the Family Allowance to federal benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and Old Age Security (OAS), these payments help individuals and families manage living costs. Below is a comprehensive guide to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Revenu Québec benefits you can claim in January 2025, detailing eligibility, amounts, and schedules.
1. Family Allowance: Financial Support for Raising Children
The Family Allowance is a provincial initiative designed to help families with children under 18 cover childcare and upbringing costs. Payments are typically issued quarterly (January, April, July, October), though monthly payments are also an option for those who prefer it. Most families with newborns are automatically enrolled, while adoptive parents and new Quebec residents must apply.
Payment Amounts:
- Per Child: $2,923 (maximum), $1,163 (minimum)
- Single-Parent Families: Additional $1,026, or $409 depending on circumstances
- School Supplies Supplement: $121 per child
- Extra Assistance: Available for children with disabilities
Next Payment Date: January 3, 2025
2. Solidarity Tax Credit: Cost of Living Relief
This credit assists low- and middle-income Quebec residents with housing, the Quebec Sales Tax (QST), and living costs in northern villages. Eligibility is based on your income from December 31 of the previous year.
Payment Structure:
- Credit of $240 or less: Lump sum in July
- Credit between $241 to $799: Quarterly (July, October, January, April)
- Credit of $800 or more: Monthly payments
Next Payment Date: January 3, 2025
3. GST/HST Credit: Recovery of Sales Tax for Low-Income Canadians
The GST/HST Credit is a quarterly, tax-free benefit to help low- to moderate-income families recover part of the federal sales tax. Eligibility is assessed when filing taxes.
Payment Amounts for January 2025:
- Single: $129.75
- Couple: $170
- Each Child under 19: $44.75
Next Payment Date: January 3, 2025
4. Shelter Allowance: Monthly Housing Assistance
This program helps low-income households who spend a significant portion of their income on housing. It applies to tenants, homeowners, and boarders.
Payment Details:
- Eligible participants can receive up to $170 monthly between October 2024 and September 2025.
- Retroactive payments are provided for those who qualify after October 1, 2024.
Next Payment Date: Within the first five days of January 2025
5. Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB): Early Access to Tax Credits
The ACWB allows eligible low-income individuals and families to access up to 50% of their Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) in advance, spread over three payments.
Payment Amounts for January 2025:
- Single: Up to $253
- Family: Up to $436
- Disability Supplement: Additional $130.66
Next Payment Date: January 10, 2025
6. Public Sector Pension Plans (RREGOP, RRPE, etc.): Lifetime Pension Support
Retired Quebec public sector employees enrolled in pension plans like RREGOP or RRPE will continue receiving their monthly pensions.
Next Payment Date: January 15, 2025
7. Canada Child Benefit (CCB): Monthly Aid for Families
The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment that helps families with child-rearing costs, including additional support for children with disabilities.
Payment Amounts for January 2025:
- Children under 6: Up to $648.91
- Children aged 6–17: Up to $547.50
- Child Disability Benefit: Additional amount if eligible
Next Payment Date: January 20, 2025
8. Old Age Security (OAS): Support for Seniors
The OAS pension provides monthly income to seniors aged 65 and above, with automatic enrollment for most individuals.
Payment Amounts for January 2025:
- Aged 65–74: $727.67
- Aged 75+: $800.44
Next Payment Date: January 29, 2025
9. Quebec Pension Plan (QPP): Retirement Support
The Quebec Pension Plan provides lifelong retirement income, with payment amounts determined by contributions and earnings.
Payment Amounts for January 2025:
- Maximum Monthly Payment at 65: $1,365
- Average Monthly Payment: $682
- Payments are adjusted for early retirement (60) or delayed retirement (72)
Next Payment Date: January 31, 2025
10. Veteran Disability Pension: Support for Service-Related Disabilities
The Veteran Disability Pension offers lifetime payments to veterans with service-related disabilities, with extra support available for dependents.
Payment Amounts for January 2025:
- Class 1 Disabilities: Up to $3,357.30
- Dependents: $839.33 for a spouse, $436.45 for the first child
Next Payment Date: To Be Announced (typically the last week of the month)
FAQs
How can I apply for the Family Allowance if I’m new to Quebec? Adoptive parents and newcomers must submit an application through Revenu Québec.
Are GST/HST Credit payments automatically processed? Yes, payments are processed automatically based on your tax return.
What is the income threshold for the Solidarity Tax Credit? For 2024, the income threshold is $61,500 for single individuals and $67,067 for couples.
Stay informed and make sure to take full advantage of the benefits and credits available to you in January 2025. These payments can provide significant financial support to help you manage your expenses throughout the year.
