$650 Dental Benefits Coming for these Canadian Children: Access to dental care is essential for overall health, yet many Canadian families struggle with the costs. To address this, the Canada Dental Benefit provides up to $650 per child annually to help cover expenses for children under 12. This initiative, launched by the Government of Canada, is aimed at families without private dental insurance and with an annual income below $90,000. This article will break down everything you need to know about the benefit, including eligibility, payment dates, application process, and what’s next with the new Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP).
$650 Dental Benefits Coming for these Canadian Children
The Canada Dental Benefit is an essential financial relief program for families who struggle with the cost of their child’s dental care. If you meet the eligibility criteria, make sure to apply before June 30, 2024, to receive up to $650 per child. As the program transitions into the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in 2025, Canadians can expect more comprehensive coverage for dental care. Until then, ensure you take full advantage of this benefit and keep your child’s dental health a top priority.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Amount | Up to $650 per child annually |
| Eligibility Criteria | Children under 12, family income below $90,000, no private dental insurance |
| Application Period | December 1, 2022, to June 30, 2024 |
| How to Apply | Online via CRA My Account or by phone at 1-800-715-8836 |
| Processing Time | Online applications take about five business days if using direct deposit |
| Official Website | Government of Canada – Canada Dental Benefit |
What is the Canada Dental Benefit?
The Canada Dental Benefit is a temporary program introduced by the Government of Canada to help low and middle-income families afford dental care for children under 12. Many Canadians face financial barriers when seeking dental treatment, leading to untreated issues that can cause long-term health complications.
To bridge this gap, the federal government launched this program as part of a broader plan to improve dental care access nationwide. While the Canada Dental Benefit is temporary, it will transition into the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in 2025, which will provide more extensive coverage to more Canadians.
Who is Eligible for the Canada Dental Benefit?
To qualify for the benefit, families must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Children’s Age: The child must be under 12 years old on the date of application.
- Household Income: The family’s adjusted net income must be below $90,000 per year.
- No Private Dental Insurance: The child must not be covered by a private dental insurance plan (government programs like provincial dental coverage do not disqualify applicants).
- Tax Filing Requirement: Parents or guardians must have filed their 2022 and 2023 tax returns to be eligible.
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Recipient: The applicant must be receiving the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) for the child in question.
- Dental Expenses: The child must have already received or will receive dental care that is not fully covered by other government programs.
How Much Can Families Receive?
The benefit amount depends on the family’s net income:
- Income below $70,000 → $650 per child
- Income between $70,000 – $79,999 → $390 per child
- Income between $80,000 – $89,999 → $260 per child
Families can apply twice if their child requires dental care in both benefit periods.
Application Process: How to Apply for the $650 Dental Benefits Coming for these Canadian Children?
Applying for the Canada Dental Benefit is simple and can be done in two ways:
1. Online via CRA My Account (Recommended)
Step 1: Log in to your CRA My Account.
Step 2: Click on “Apply for the Canada Dental Benefit.”
Step 3: Enter the required details, including:
- Child’s information
- Dental care provider’s name and appointment details
- Employer details (for income verification)
Step 4: Submit your application.
Processing Time: If you’re registered for direct deposit, payments usually arrive within five business days.
2. By Phone
Step 1: Call the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) at 1-800-715-8836.
Step 2: Provide your Social Insurance Number (SIN), tax information, and child’s details.
Step 3: Complete the process with a CRA representative.
Payment Dates and Benefit Periods
The Canada Dental Benefit is available in two periods:
- First Benefit Period: Covers dental services received between October 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023
- Second Benefit Period: Covers services received between July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024
Application Deadlines: Families must apply within the designated timeframe for each period. If they miss the deadline, they won’t be able to claim the benefit for that period.
Documents Required for Verification
The CRA may request supporting documents to verify your claim. Keep these for at least six years:
- Dental care provider’s details
- Appointment date and type of services received
- Receipts or proof of payment
- Employer information (for income verification)
What Happens If You Provide False Information?
The government takes fraud seriously. If the CRA finds that false information was provided, applicants may be required to repay the benefit and could face penalties.
Transition to the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
The Canada Dental Benefit is temporary and will be replaced by the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in 2025. This plan will provide expanded coverage to a wider group, including:
- Children under 18
- Seniors over 65
- Individuals with disabilities
- Low and middle-income families
What Will Be Covered?
The CDCP will cover a broader range of dental services, including:
- Routine checkups and cleanings
- X-rays and fillings
- Root canals and extractions
- Preventive and restorative care
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for more than one child?
Yes, if you have multiple children under 12, you can apply separately for each child.
2. What if my child already received dental treatment before I applied?
As long as the treatment falls within the benefit period and you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply retroactively.
3. Does this benefit cover braces or orthodontics?
No, the Canada Dental Benefit is meant for basic dental care, not cosmetic procedures like braces, whitening, or veneers.
4. What if my income changes?
Your eligibility is based on your previous year’s tax return. If your income increases after applying, you don’t have to return the money unless an error was made.
5. Will this program continue in 2025?
No, the Canada Dental Benefit will end in 2024 and be replaced by the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP).
