The past few years have been challenging for people in Mississauga and Brampton. It feels like the price of everything has gone up. And while inflation is back to the 2% target and interest rates have been cut five times this year, we know that Canadians are not yet feeling that in their household budgets.
The federal government cannot set prices at the checkout, but it can put more money in people's pockets to help them afford the things they need and save for the things they want.
The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, the Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, and Peter Fonseca, Member of Parliament for Mississauga East-Cooksville, highlighted the federal government's GST/HST tax break that is starting today.
As announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on November 21 in the news release, More money in your pocket: A tax break for all Canadians and the Working Canadians Rebate, all Canadians, including those in Mississauga and Brampton, can now buy essentials like groceries, snacks, children's clothing and gifts, free of GST/HST.
This new tax break applies to:
- prepared foods, including vegetable trays and pre-made meals, salads and sandwiches
- restaurant meals, whether dine-in, takeout or delivery
- snacks, including chips, candy and granola bars
- beer, wine, cider and pre-mixed alcoholic beverages below 7% ABV
- children's clothing and footwear, car seats and diapers
- children's toys, such as board games, dolls and video game consoles
- books, print newspapers and puzzles for all ages
- Christmas trees
The tax break will last until February 15, providing Canadians with real relief at the cash register and meaningful savings.
Families will be spending quality time together over the coming weeks. Some will light Christmas trees for Santa to put gifts underneath. Some will share meals with family and friends. Some might just make hot chocolate, order some takeout and stay in for a movie night. With this tax break, the federal government is making the holidays easier, no matter what they look like, and helping Canadians start the new year with a little more money in their pockets.
