If you’re a parent in Canada, you might have heard about the $650 Dental Benefits for children. This benefit is designed to help families cover the costs of dental care for their kids, especially those under the age of 12 who don’t have private dental insurance. In this guide, we’ll break down what these dental benefits are, who is eligible, and how you can claim $650 CCB (Canada Child Benefit) twice per child. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to access this financial assistance for your family.
What are Dental Benefits?
Dental benefits are payments provided by the Canadian Federal Government to support families with the cost of dental care for their children. This program was introduced in 2022 to ensure that children under 12 years old receive the dental care they need, even if their families don’t have private dental insurance. The program is designed to ease the financial burden on families, offering up to $650 per child each year to cover dental expenses like checkups and procedures.
$650 Dental Benefits for Canadian Children
Under this program, eligible families can receive up to $650 per year for each child. The amount you receive depends on your family’s gross income. Here’s a breakdown:
| Gross Income | Maximum Benefit Per Child |
|---|---|
| Less than $70,000 CAD | $650 CAD |
| $70,000 – $90,000 CAD | Varies, but up to $650 CAD |
This payment is tax-free and can be used to cover a wide range of dental services for children. These payments are especially helpful for low and moderate-income families, ensuring their children receive the necessary dental care without the financial stress. The last payment for this benefit was made on July 1, 2023, but you can still apply for the next cycle.
Eligibility for $650 Dental Benefits for Canadian Children
To qualify for the $650 Dental Benefits, certain criteria must be met:
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Child’s Age | Must be under 12 years old |
| No Private Dental Insurance | Child should not have any private dental insurance coverage |
| Canada Child Benefits (CCB) Recipient | Family must already be receiving the Canada Child Benefits |
| Family Income | Annual income must be below $90,000 CAD |
| Tax Filing | Family must have filed their 2022 income tax return |
| Canadian Residency | Child must be a resident of Canada |
Meeting all these criteria makes the child eligible to receive the dental benefits.
How to Claim $650 CCB Twice per Child
If your family meets the eligibility criteria, you can claim the dental benefits twice for each child by following these steps:
- Visit the CRA My Account Website: Start by logging into the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) My Account online portal.
- Search for Canada Dental Benefits: Use the search function on the homepage to find the Canada Dental Benefits section.
- Apply Online: Click on the “Apply Online” button to start your application.
- Provide Necessary Information: You’ll need to enter details like your ID number, family income, and other relevant information.
- Submit the Application: After filling out the form, submit it and wait for approval.
Applications for the second payment are open until June 30, 2024. If both parents share custody of the child, each parent can apply and receive half of the payment. The application process typically takes 1 to 2 weeks for approval. You can also apply by phone by contacting the authorities at 1-800-715-8836. Make sure you have your social insurance number, address, and a copy of your last income tax return ready when applying.
Conclusion
The $650 Dental Benefits for Canadian children is a valuable program designed to help families afford essential dental care. If your family qualifies, don’t miss out on this opportunity to claim these benefits twice per child. The process is straightforward, and the financial support can make a significant difference in ensuring your child receives the necessary dental care.
FAQ’s
Who is eligible for the $650 Dental Benefits?
To be eligible for the $650 Dental Benefits, the child must be under 12 years old, not have private dental insurance, and the family must be receiving the Canada Child Benefits with an annual income below $90,000 CAD. The family must also have filed their 2022 income tax return and be Canadian residents.
How can I apply for the $650 Dental Benefits?
You can apply for the $650 Dental Benefits by logging into the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) My Account online portal. Search for “Canada Dental Benefits,” then follow the steps to apply online, including entering required details and submitting the application. Alternatively, you can apply by phone at 1-800-715-8836.
Can I claim the $650 Dental Benefits more than once per year?
Yes, you can claim the $650 Dental Benefits twice per year for each eligible child. The application for the second payment is open until June 30, 2024. If you share custody of the child, both parents can apply and receive half of the payment each.