Explaining the Canada Dental Benefit
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Many Canadians have been struggling with the rising cost of living, and our government’s primary goal has been to make life more affordable for Canadian families. Many among us do not have dental insurance, and because dental care is expensive, one third of Canadians are unable to see a dentist and get the dental care they need.
Tooth decay is the most common, yet preventable, childhood chronic disease both in Canada and around the world. Oral diseases start early – frequently in preschool years – which is why it is so important to establish good dental care habits as early as possible.
To start addressing this gap, our government has taken action and passed legislation on November 17, 2022, that will make an estimated 500,000 children under the age of 12 eligible to receive dental care. I would like to highlight this important measure: the Canada Dental Benefit.
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As of Dec.1, 2022, families earning less than $90,000 per year can apply to receive up to $650 per child per year over the next two years to pay their dental expenses.
The plan covers children under 12 whose families earn less than $90,000 a year. As of Dec.1, 2022, these families can apply to receive up to $650 per child per year over the next two years to pay their dental expenses. This program gets money into the pockets of families who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford important care for their children. Like the Child Tax Benefit, this benefit won’t affect your taxes.
Applications for the first benefit period are open for dental care received by eligible children between Oct. 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023. Applications for the second benefit year will open on July 1 and will be for dental care received by eligible children between July 1 and June 30, 2024.
Canadians can apply for the Canada Dental Benefit through their CRA My Account. It’s a quick, easy and secure way to apply. If you apply online and are signed up for direct deposit, you can get your payment within five business days.
Alternatively, call 1-800-715-8836 to get your application started. In order for the CRA to validate your identity, make sure you have your social insurance number, address, date of birth, and a copy of your most recently assessed tax return.
To receive the Canada Dental Benefit, make sure you have filed your 2021 tax return. When applying, you’ll need to provide:
• The name, address and telephone number of your child or children’s dental care professional
• the name, address and telephone number of your employer and your spouse’s or common-law partner’s employer; and
• the date (or expected date) of your child or children’s dental appointment
The Canada Dental Benefit is only the first stage as we expand the long-term national dental care program to those who need it most over the coming years.
For more information, visit www.canada.ca/dental.
Dan Vandal
Saint Boniface-Saint Vital constituency report
Dan Vandal is the Liberal MP for Saint Boniface-Saint Vital.