5 Tax Tips for Parents

Canada child benefit

This is a tax-free monthly benefit for families designed to help with the cost of raising children. Payments are based on a variety of factors, including the number of children in your care, their age, your martial status and your adjusted family net income (AFNI). For the period from July 2020 to June 2021, the maximum benefit for children under 6 is $563.75 and for children aged 6 to 17, the maximum is $475.66.

Child disability benefit

This is a tax-free monthly benefit for families who care for a child under age 18 with a severe and prolonged physical or mental impairment. The maximum monthly benefit for the July 2021 to June 2021 period is $242.92, but is reduced if your 2019 AFNI is over $69,395.

Goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax credit

The goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) refundable credit is a tax-free quarterly-paid amount intended to offset GST/HST. From July 2021 to June 2022, the base individual credit is $299 per year, subject to a clawback based on 2020 income beginning at over $38,892. The credit increases if you are married/common-law or have children under 19.

Child care expenses

You may deduct child care expense incurred to allow you to earn income, carry on a business, go to school or conduct research. Generally, these expenses must be claimed by the lower income spouse. Tuition/education, leisure and recreation costs do not qualify.

Adoption expenses

You can claim a credit for many of the costs related to adopting a child, including adoption agency fees, court/administrative costs, and travel. The eligible time period can range from the ministry application date through to when the child begins living with you.

For more information, please visit the Government of Canada website

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