The past few years have been challenging. It feels like the price of everything has gone up. And while inflation is cooling and interest rates are dropping, we know that Canadians aren’t feeling that in their household budgets yet.
Our government can’t set prices at the checkout, but we can give Canadians more money in their pocket – to help them afford the things they need and save for the things they want.
Starting December 14, 2024, we’re giving a tax break to all Canadians. With a GST/HST exemption across the country, Canadians will be able to buy essentials like groceries, snacks, and kids clothing – all tax-free.
This new tax break will apply to:
- Prepared foods, including vegetable trays, pre-made meals and salads, and sandwiches.
- Restaurant meals, whether dine-in, takeout, or delivery.
- Snacks, including chips, candy, and granola bars.
- Beer, wine, cider, and pre-mixed alcoholic beverages below 7 per cent ABV.
- Children’s clothing and footwear, car seats, and diapers.
- Children’s toys, such as board games, dolls, and video game consoles.
- Books, print newspapers, and puzzles for all ages.
- Christmas trees.
This tax break is projected to last until February 15, 2025. By making essentially all food GST/HST free, this will deliver meaningful savings for Canadians, with real relief at the cash register.
Working Canadians will also get some cash back, with a new Working Canadians Rebate. That means Canadians who worked in 2023 and earned up to $150,000 will see a $250 cheque in their bank account or mailbox, starting early spring 2025. With the Working Canadians Rebate, we are putting money directly into the pockets of the middle-class – those who have worked hard to beat inflation. This will give 18.7 million Canadians that extra help to buy what they need.
We encourage Parliament and all parties to get this legislation passed quickly and unanimously so workers and working families get more money in their pocket.
Families will be spending quality time together over the coming weeks. Some will light Christmas trees and buy gifts. Some will share a meal with family and friends. Some might just make hot chocolate, order some takeout, and stay in for a movie night. With today’s announcement, we’re making life a bit easier, so Canadians have more money in their pocket for the things they want. (PM Trudeau’s website; Jerica Gelle Mariano (she/her/elle) Manager, Outreach, Diversity, and Inclusion )