Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a series of new affordability measures aimed at lowering costs and making life easier for Canadians ahead of the federal budget 2025.
The plan includes automatic tax filing for low-income Canadians, a permanent National School Food Program, and renewed travel discounts through the Canada Strong Pass – all part of the government’s commitment to “build Canada strong.”
Beginning with the 2026 tax year, the Canada Revenue Agency will automatically file taxes for up to 5.5 million Canadians by 2028, ensuring they receive benefits such as the GST/HST credit, the Canada Child Benefit, and the new Canada Disability Benefit.
The government also confirmed the National School Food Program will become a permanent fixture, providing healthy meals for up to 400,000 children and saving families with two kids roughly $800 per year. Meanwhile, the Canada Strong Pass will return this holiday season and next summer, giving families, students, and young adults reduced travel costs and free or discounted access to museums, parks, and historic sites.
“Canadians asked for real change that makes life more affordable,” said Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne. “These measures will help families across the country while we invest in long-term growth.”
Prime Minister Carney said the upcoming budget will focus on “bold but responsible” spending, reducing waste while funding major projects and programs that strengthen the economy and protect communities.
Budget 2025 will be tabled in the House of Commons on November 4.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
