This release was issued under a previous government.

“During these tough economic times, our government is ensuring that parents are able to provide their children with opportunities to succeed and thrive. I encourage all eligible parents to file a tax return to qualify for the new Alberta Child Benefit.”

Irfan Sabir, Minister of Human Services 

“Women are the majority of low-wage earners in our province. This benefit is direct help to women and children most in need, to make ends meet and give kids a better quality of life.”

Stephanie McLean, Minister of Status of Women

Community organizations throughout Alberta 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.

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, up to $2,750 for families with four or more children.

To qualify, families must file a 2015 tax return, have lived in Alberta for at least one month, have at least one child under the age of 18, and meet the income requirements.

“Anything that we can do as a larger community to help those who are vulnerable and living in poverty is good for all of us. We are delighted that with the new Alberta Child Benefit, some of those Albertans who need help the most will find it.”

Katelyn Lucas, Executive Director, Elizabeth Fry Society of Calgary

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 payments will go out in August.

To learn more about these benefits, call 1-877-644-9992, or visit alberta.ca/alberta-child-benefit.cfm.