The Ford government plans to mail Ontario taxpayers a $200 rebate check starting early next year.
Premier Doug Ford made the announcement Tuesday alongside the province’s finance minister, Peter Bethlenfalvy, a day before the province releases its fall economic statement.
Aside from the $200, the province is also proposing an additional $200 for each eligible child. Eligible Ontarians would receive the refunds in early 2025.
“For an eligible family of five, these rebates equal approximately $1,000,” Ford told reporters Tuesday.
“We are doing everything we can to keep costs down for Ontario families, but the federal carbon tax and high interest rates continue to hurt taxpayers across the province.”
Everyone will receive refunds, including billionaires
The government said this refund is expected to provide $3 billion in support to around 12.5 million adults and 2.5 million children.
“At a time when the cost of living remains stubbornly high, our government is stepping up for the families and workers of this province with much-needed relief for their household budgets,” Bethlenfalvy said.
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“We encourage taxpayers to keep an eye on their mailboxes for this refund in early 2025 as we continue to make life more affordable for Ontarians while maintaining prudent and responsible fiscal management.”
The government said those eligible for the tax-free refund must be 18 years old or older at the end of 2023. They must also be residents of Ontario on Dec. 31, 2023, and have filed their federal income tax and benefit return. 2023 before December. December 31, 2024, and not be bankrupt or incarcerated in 2024.
Asked if Ontarians accused of a crime who are out on bail would receive reimbursement, Ford said, “If they committed a crime and have been convicted, no.”
Additionally, families who qualify for the Canada Child Benefit payment by 2024 would receive an additional $200 for each eligible child under 18, the province said.
When asked by a reporter why millionaires or billionaires would receive the refund, Ford said “because they are taxpayers.”
“These are tax dollars going back to taxpayers, and we’re going to give them back to every person in Ontario,” Ford said in response.
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