This release was issued under a previous government.
“In tough times, Albertans pull together. Our government has made a commitment to help Alberta families who are facing financial hardship. I encourage all eligible parents to file a tax return to qualify for the new Alberta Child Benefit.”
All families earning less than $41,220 per year in net income, including those receiving AISH and Income Support, are eligible to receive the new ACB. The maximum annual benefit is $1,100 for families with one child, and up to $2,750 for families with four or more children.
To qualify, families must:
- file a 2015 tax return;
- reside in Alberta for at least one month;
- have at least one child under the age of 18; and
- meet the income requirements.
“As someone who works with lower-income families every day, I appreciate how much the Alberta Child Benefit will improve their lives. This program will make a meaningful difference for many children and families, and I hope parents will take advantage of this great opportunity.”
Once fully implemented, 235,000 children in 130,000 lower-income families will receive a total of $195 million in annual benefits from the new ACB. The first ACB payments will go out in August.
Community organizations are hosting free tax clinics to prepare returns for eligible lower-income taxpayers. The Canada Revenue Agency’s website has more information about these clinics. The tax filing deadline is April 30.
To learn more about these benefits, call 1-877-644-9992, or visit humanservices.alberta.ca/childbenefit.