The Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB) program provides crucial financial support to families with children in Alberta. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this tax-free benefit is designed to assist low- and moderate-income families in maintaining a better quality of life.
If you received ACFB last month or are eligible for this benefit, here’s a comprehensive guide on what it entails and what steps to take if you don’t receive your payment.
Understanding the $117/Month ACFB Payment
In Alberta, the federal government provides financial aid to lower-income families through the ACFB program. Starting from July 2023, the CRA has set a monthly benefit of $117.50 CAD for eligible households. This tax-free payment supports families with children under 18 years of age. To qualify for this benefit, families must file their income tax returns with the CRA. The payment amount is determined by the family’s annual income and the number of children they have.
What is ACFB?
The Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB) program, initiated in 2020, aims to support lower- and middle-income families in Alberta. It provides financial aid to households with children under the age of 18, ensuring they have the necessary resources for a better quality of life.
To receive ACFB payments, families must be Alberta residents, file their income tax returns, and meet other eligibility criteria. The program is designed to enhance the well-being of children and support families in reaching their potential.
ACFB Payment Schedule and Amounts
ACFB payments are issued quarterly in August, November, February, and May, based on the information provided in the family’s income tax return. The benefit amount is composed of a base component and a working component, determined by the number of children in the family. Here is a breakdown of the payment structure:
| No. of Children | Base Component (CAD) | Working Component (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1,410 | 722 |
| 2 | 2,115 | 1,379 |
| 3 | 2,820 | 1,772 |
| 4 | 3,525 | 1,902 |
Families will continue to receive these payments until the end of the fiscal year, after which the rates may be adjusted for inflation and other factors.
Steps to Take if You Didn’t Receive Your ACFB Payment
If you didn’t receive your ACFB payment as expected, here’s what you should do:
- Wait Period: Allow up to 10 business days after the payment date for the benefit to be processed.
- Contact CRA: If the payment is still not received after this period, contact the CRA at 1-800-959-2809 or 1-877-644-9992 for assistance.
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, including having filed your income tax return. The CRA last issued ACFB payments on November 27, 2023. If you haven’t received yours, reaching out to the CRA is crucial.
The Alberta Child and Family Benefit program is essential for supporting low- and moderate-income families in Alberta. By understanding the eligibility requirements and knowing what steps to take if payments are missed, families can ensure they receive the financial assistance they are entitled to, helping them maintain a better quality of life for their children.