Canadian Seniors Demand Inclusion in New Government Rebate Cheques Amid Cost of Living Crisis

Retirees Excluded from Canadian Government Rebate Cheques

Carol Sheaves, 67, from Moncton, N.B., opposes the exclusion of seniors from the Canadian government’s new rebate plan. She calls the proposed $250 payments “a freaking joke” and argues that retirees deserve this support after paying taxes for decades.

Sheaves and her husband Frank rely on Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), a small pension, and investment returns. Although they manage financially, rising rent—up $300 to over $1,600—pressures their budget. Sheaves expresses disappointment with federal measures designed to help working Canadians making $150,000 or less in 2023, while retirees, who may also struggle, receive no assistance.

CanAge, a seniors’ advocacy group, supports calls to include retirees in the rebate program. CEO Laura Tamblyn Watts states seniors feel overlooked as costs mount.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau explained that the government aimed to address the needs of working Canadians. Katherine Cuplinskas, deputy director of communications, noted that many seniors work and qualify for the new rebate. She cited government efforts to raise seniors’ benefits since 2015, such as reversing changes to OAS eligibility and increasing support for low-income seniors.

Despite this, many seniors like Pamela Dudas, 67, find it hard to make ends meet. Dudas plans to work as a fitness trainer to supplement her pension. She shares her home with a friend who cannot afford rent, underscoring the financial pressures facing many seniors.

Dudas and others criticize the rebate’s design. They argue it favors higher earners instead of supporting those surviving on fixed incomes. Bill Cole from Toronto calls this exclusion “discriminatory.”

Anita Reilander from Calgary questions why individuals earning up to $150,000 qualify for the rebate while seniors do not. She believes the funds would benefit seniors on limited pensions more effectively.

Ann La Touche from Winnipeg suggests a guaranteed basic income for all to ensure a stable living.

These voices reflect frustrations among seniors facing significant affordability challenges as inflation continues to impact their lives.