The summer of YOU

🚨 CRA Update: Claim Your (Newcomer) Benefits Faster Than Ever

Good news: The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) just launched a new digital form that lets newcomers (temporary or permanent residents) apply for federal benefits online, instead of mailing paper forms. This means if you’ve recently moved to Canada, you can claim certain benefit and credit payments in as little as 20 minutes online. Prior to this change, newcomers had to send in paper applications, which was slow and tedious – so this is a big improvement.

Which benefits are we talking about?

Mainly two programs that put money back in your pocket:

• GST/HST Credit: A quarterly tax-free payment to help low- and modest-income people offset the sales taxes they pay. If you’re eligible, you get a payment every 3 months to ease the burden of GST/HST on your purchases.
  

• Canada Child Benefit (CCB): A monthly tax-free payment for families raising children under 18. This one can be substantial if you have kids. (Note: permanent residents can get it right away, but most temporary residents need to reside in Canada for 18 months before qualifying.)

Who qualifies?

If you're a temporary or permanent resident settling in Canada, you're likely eligible even before filing your first Canadian tax return. All you need is your Social Insurance Number (SIN).

👉 Apply Online Now on the CRA Website(Don't leave your money unclaimed!)

🍁 Canada Strong Pass: Free Summer Adventures Await!

Want to explore Canada without breaking the bank? From June 20 to September 2, 2025, the federal government is rolling out the Canada Strong Pass, which offers you a free or discounted access to some of the country’s most iconic places.

Think of it as a summer-long welcome gift to help you discover the Great White North. Here’s what’s included:

What's Included (June 20 – September 2, 2025):

• Free entry to all Parks Canada national parks and historic sites.
  

• 25% off camping at participating sites.
  

• Free admission for children (17 and under) to museums nationwide; 50% off for young adults (18-24).
  

• Free VIA Rail tickets for kids (with adult ticket); 25% off for ages 18-24.

And the best part? No registration or actual “pass” card is needed: just show up at these locations during the program dates and enjoy the deal. The Canada Strong Pass benefits are available to everyone, whether you’re a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, international student, or tourist.

👉 Explore the Full Canada Strong Pass Detailsand make your summer unforgettable!

💳 Stop Paying Bank Fees: Canada's Best No-Fee Chequing Accounts

Did you know the average Canadian pays over $200 per year in bank fees? It's time to put an end to it. Switching to a free account means you keep more of your money for you, which is especially helpful when you’re new and managing a tight budget.

Here’s our roundup of top no-fee chequing accounts from smaller banks, online banks, and credit unions:

• 🏅 Simplii Financial: No monthly fee, unlimited transactions, free e-Transfers. (Great for simplicity!)
  

• 🍊 Tangerine: No fees, unlimited transactions, earn interest and cashback.
  

• 💸 EQ Bank: High-interest (2.5%), no fees, unlimited transactions—ideal for maximizing savings.
  

• 🔥 Neo Financial: No fees, earn cashback (up to 3%) with everyday spending.
  

• 📱KOHO: Modern, mobile-first account, 2.5% interest and cashback on essentials.

Bottom line: You have options beyond the “Big Five” banks, and they don’t cost a dime to use. Many of these alternatives are online banks or credit unions, but they’re fully insured (by CDIC or provincial deposit insurance) and trusted by millions of Canadians. Plus, the sign-up processes are usually quick and 100% online – you can open an account from your couch with your ID and SIN.