With the arrival of 2025, Quebec residents can anticipate a series of government payments designed to provide financial relief and support. From provincial programs like the Family Allowance to federal benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and Old Age Security (OAS), these payments cater to diverse needs, helping individuals and families manage expenses effectively.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Revenu Québec benefits you can expect in January 2025, including eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and schedules.
Family Allowance: Financial Support for Raising Children
The Family Allowance, a provincial initiative, aids families with children under 18 to cover childcare and upbringing costs. Payments are generally issued quarterly in January, April, July, and October, though monthly payments are an option for those who prefer it. Most families with newborns are automatically enrolled, while adoptive parents and new residents of Quebec may need to apply.
Payment Amounts
The amount varies based on factors like custody arrangements, family income, and the number of children. Here’s an overview for 2024 (subject to potential increases in 2025):
| Category | Maximum Annual Payment | Minimum Annual Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Per Child | $2,923 | $1,163 |
| Single-Parent Families | Additional $1,026 | Additional $409 |
| School Supplies Supplement | $121 per child | N/A |
Extra assistance is available for children with disabilities.
Next Payment Date
January 3, 2025
Solidarity Tax Credit: Helping with Cost of Living
Designed for low- and middle-income residents, the Solidarity Tax Credit offsets costs related to housing, the Quebec Sales Tax (QST), and living expenses in northern villages. Eligibility is based on family income as of December 31 of the previous year.
Payment Structure
The credit is divided into three components: housing, QST, and northern villages. Payment schedules depend on the total credit amount:
| Total Credit | Payment Schedule |
|---|---|
| $240 or less | Lump sum in July |
| $241 to $799 | Quarterly (July, October, January, April) |
| $800 or more | Monthly |
Next Payment Date
January 3, 2025
GST/HST Credit: Recovering Sales Tax for Low-Income Canadians
The GST/HST Credit is a quarterly, tax-free benefit aimed at helping low- to moderate-income families recover some federal sales tax expenses. Eligibility is automatically determined when filing taxes.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 19 years old (exceptions apply for parents or married individuals under 19).
- Canadian residency for tax purposes is required the month before and at the beginning of the payment month.
Payment Amounts for January 2025
- $129.75 for single individuals
- $170 for couples
- $44.75 for each child under 19
Next Payment Date
January 3, 2025
Shelter Allowance: Monthly Housing Assistance
The Shelter Allowance Program provides financial support to low-income households that spend a significant portion of their income on housing. It caters to tenants, homeowners, and boarders.
Payment Details
From October 2024 to September 2025, eligible participants can receive up to $170 monthly. Retroactive payments are provided for those who qualify after October 1, 2024.
Next Payment Date
Within the first five days of January 2025.
Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB): Early Access to Tax Credits
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) supports low-income individuals and families. Through the ACWB program, eligible participants can access 50% of their annual CWB in advance, split into three installments.
Payment Amounts for January 2025
- Up to $253 for single individuals
- Up to $436 for families
- Additional $130.66 for those eligible for the disability supplement
Next Payment Date
January 10, 2025
Public Sector Pension Plans (RREGOP, RRPE, etc.)
Retired Quebec public sector employees enrolled in plans like RREGOP or RRPE receive lifetime monthly pensions.
Next Payment Date
January 15, 2025
Canada Child Benefit (CCB): Monthly Aid for Families
The Canada Child Benefit provides tax-free monthly payments to assist with child-rearing costs, including additional aid for children with disabilities.
Payment Amounts for January 2025
- Up to $648.91 per child under 6
- Up to $547.50 per child aged 6–17
- Additional Child Disability Benefit included if eligible
Next Payment Date
January 20, 2025
Old Age Security (OAS): Support for Seniors
The Old Age Security pension provides monthly income to Canadians aged 65 and above, with automatic enrollment for most individuals.
Payment Amounts for January 2025
- $727.67 for individuals aged 65–74
- $800.44 for individuals aged 75+
Next Payment Date
January 29, 2025
Quebec Pension Plan (QPP): Lifetime Retirement Support
The Quebec Pension Plan offers lifelong retirement income, with the amount determined by contributions and lifetime earnings.
Payment Amounts for January 2025
- Maximum monthly payment at 65: $1,365
- Average monthly payment: $682
- Payments adjusted for early (60) or delayed (72) Retirement
Next Payment Date
January 31, 2025
Veteran Disability Pension: Support for Service-Related Disabilities
This pension provides lifetime payments to veterans with service-related disabilities. Extra support is available for dependents.
Payment Amounts for January 2025
- Maximum $3,357.30 per month for veterans with Class 1 disabilities
- Additional amounts for dependents: $839.33 for a spouse, $436.45 for the first child
Next Payment Date
TBA (typically 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 complete an application through Revenu Québec.
Are GST/HST Credit payments automatically processed?
Yes, eligibility is assessed when you file your taxes.
What is the income threshold for the Solidarity Tax Credit?
It varies, but for 2024, single individuals qualify up to $61,500 and couples up to $67,067.
