Benefits you can lose if you don't file your taxes in Canada
Quick summary
Benefit payments depend on your tax return. The CRA says Canada Child Benefit payments stop if you do not file. Once your return is assessed, missed amounts are paid as retroactive payments. See your possible benefits in ourEarn and Save guide.
Checked November 3, 2026. Main source: CRA: Canada Child Benefit, keep getting your payments (modified Oct. 22, 2026). See all 2 sources.
Canada Child Benefit
- You must file your income tax and benefit return every year, even with no income.
- File by April 30 to avoid disruption. Payments are recalculated each July.
- Your spouse or common-law partner must also file on time.
- If you do not file, payments stop. After your return is assessed, missed amounts you are entitled to are paid on the next scheduled payment date.
Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit
You need to file a return to receive this benefit, even if you had no income. If you owe tax, the CRA may apply it to your balance.
If you owe tax
The CRA says federal benefit and credit payments may be applied to your debt, even during a payment arrangement.
Questions people ask
Do I need to file taxes to get the Canada Child Benefit?
Yes. The CRA says you must file every year, even with no income, and that your spouse or common-law partner must also file.
Do I get missed benefit payments back if I file late?
The CRA says that after your return is assessed, missed amounts you are entitled to are paid as retroactive payments.
Does your province have its own rules?
Each province adds its own benefits, credits and supports on top of the federal ones. Pick yours to see where to look. We remember your choice on this device only.