Statement from Minister McPhee on joint announcement with the Government of Canada regarding the Canada child benefit

Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

“Our government is committed to reducing red tape and making resources and supports simpler and more accessible for those who need them.

“Yesterday, alongside the Government of Canada, our government announced that Yukoners can now apply for the Canada child benefit (CCB) and other child benefits with the Automated Benefits Application service when registering the birth of a newborn. 

“By simply giving consent on the Registration of Live Birth form, available at Whitehorse General Hospital, Yukon Midwifery Program and the Yukon Vital Statistics Office, parents can initiate the process, reducing paperwork and ensuring quicker processing times.

“The CCB is a non-taxable amount paid monthly to help eligible families with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age. When using the Automated Benefits Application service, Yukoners are applying for the Canada child benefit, the Yukon child benefit and the child portion of the goods and services tax and harmonized sales tax (GST and HST) credit. Many parents use these benefits to provide essential support for the wellbeing of their families.

“This people-focused approach to making these benefits more accessible reflects our commitment to simplifying the process for families. Our aim is to streamline processes, alleviate burdens and empower families to concentrate on supporting their children, providing them with the best possible start in life.

“Yukon youth are our future, which is why we must continue to do everything we can to support them and their families and caregivers right from the beginning.”