For some, it was hundreds of dollars and it’s the first payment of the federal government’s carbon tax credit. “It’s nice to have, it helps pay for the groceries and the car,” said Ottawa resident Reg Woods, who had the rebate deposited directly into his bank account. “When I get gas up to $1.80 or $1.90, it’s nice to know that I got that money back.” The Climate Action Incentive is a carbon tax rebate payment from the federal government paid to residents of four provinces. including Ontario. Payment is based on the number of family members in your household. For example, a family of four would receive $373 for the first adult, $186 for the second and $93 for each child – per year. The money will be paid quarterly starting this year, starting with a double payment in July to cover April and July payments. “He noticed a charge on our account for $279.50,” Woods said. “And then I get two more payments of $139 each over the next six months.” The federal government says it intends to make sure most households get more money than they pay in taxes, but the Canadian Taxpayers Federation calls that magic math. “Canadians need relief from this inflation, but the government is pulling the plug on Canadians. They would save more money if the government just eliminated the carbon tax,” said Franco Terrazzano, federal director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation. “Parliamentary Budget Officer’s figures show carbon tax will cost more than rebates”. The Ford government spent $30 million to fight the federal carbon tax, but lost the battle in the Supreme Court of Canada. As inflation soars, those in control say every bit helps. “It’s helpful,” Woods said.
