Ontario begins issuing $200 payments.
The Ontario government has begun issuing $200 cheques to taxpayers, aiming to alleviate the rising cost of living.
“With Ontario families struggling due to the federal carbon tax, high interest rates, and global economic uncertainty, our government is stepping up to help reduce costs and support families,” Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy stated.
The payments are being distributed to eligible Ontario residents. To qualify, recipients must be 18 years or older by the end of 2023, reside in Ontario as of December 31, 2023, file their 2023 Income Tax and Benefit Return by December 31, 2024, and not be bankrupt or incarcerated in 2024.
Additionally, families eligible for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) will receive a separate $200 payment for each child under 18.
Premier Doug Ford announced the rebate program in October, which is expected to cost the provincial government $3 billion.
The cheques are being issued amid speculation that Ford may call an early provincial election. Ford remarked this week that with the potential for tariff threats from U.S. president-elect Donald Trump, a mandate might be needed to implement significant economic measures for Ontario.
