Nova Scotia increases child benefit payment

HALIFAX – Nova Scotian families with lower incomes will see an increase in their child benefits.

Depending on household income and the number of children, families will now receive up to $1,275 per child annually, which is at least $350 more than the previous year.

The Nova Scotia Child Benefit is a tax-free payment given to eligible families to help with the cost of raising children under the age of 18.

To be eligible, families must have an annual adjusted combined net income under $34,000.

Families are not required to apply for the benefits, as both the federal and provincial benefits are based on personal income tax returns.

However, residents are encouraged to file their income tax returns for 2021 if they have not already, as the provincial benefit year runs from July 1 to June 30 and is based on income information from the previous tax year.

The benefit is combined with the federally funded Canada Child Benefit and received by mail or direct deposit as one monthly payment.

As of February 2021, 26,477 Nova Scotian families received the benefit representing 47,068 children.

"Safe and healthy children, youth and families are vital to building a stronger Nova Scotia," said Minister of Community Services Karla MacFarlane in a news release.

"This is one more way we are helping families who need it most."