EDMONTON – The Alberta government is encouraging parents in need to take advantage of the new Alberta Child Benefit.
Families earning less than $41,220 per year in net income are eligible to receive the new benefit, which was announced late last year.
“In tough times, Albertans pull together. Our government has made a commitment to help Alberta families who are facing financial hardship,” Minister of Human Services Irfan Sabir said.
The most a family with one child can get is $1,100, while a family with four or more children can receive up to $2,750.
READ MORE: How benefits from 2015 budget affect Alberta families making less than $41K
In order to qualify, a family must file a 2015 tax return, reside in Alberta for at least one month, have at least one child under 18 years old, and meet the income requirements.
“As someone who works with lower-income families every day, I appreciate how much the Alberta Child Benefit will improve their lives,” Dickinsfield Amity House executive director Tracy Patience said.
“This program will make a meaningful difference for many children and families, and I hope parents will take advantage of this great opportunity.”
READ MORE: New taxes and benefits: Alberta budget 2015 highlights
Once Alberta Child Benefit is fully implemented, it will help 235,000 children across the province who will receive $195 million in annual benefits, the government said.
Community organizers are hosting free tax clinics to prepare returns for those who are eligible for the program. Information about the clinics can be found on the Canada Revenue Agency website.
The tax filing deadline is April 30.
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