With the possibility of a Canada Post strike looming ahead of the May 22 deadline, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has issued an important update for Canadians concerned about disruptions to government benefit payments.
According to CRA officials, contingency measures are in place to ensure the delivery of critical social benefit cheques, even if Canada Post workers take job action. The CRA has confirmed that Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments — along with any related provincial and territorial programs, including the Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB) — will still be delivered by mail during a postal disruption.
“Canada Post and its bargaining agents have agreed to prioritize the delivery of key benefit cheques on set dates,” the CRA stated.
The upcoming CCB cheque delivery dates are:
- May 20, 2025
- June 18, 2025
These cheques will be mailed out and delivered even if a strike is underway.
However, Canadians are strongly encouraged to sign up for direct deposit through CRA’s My Account portal to avoid any future delays or disruptions. Direct deposit ensures timely and secure payment of benefits and credits, including:
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- GST/HST credit
- Canada Workers Benefit
- Climate Action Incentive
- Old Age Security and other pension-related payments
“Enrolling in direct deposit is the most efficient way to receive your payments,” the CRA advised. “It guarantees you won’t be impacted by mail delays and also provides email notifications through My Account.”
Labour negotiations between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) are currently on hold pending the release of a report from the Industrial Inquiry Commission, led by Commissioner William Kaplan. The report, initially expected on May 15, is anticipated to help resolve the ongoing contract dispute affecting 55,000 unionized postal workers.
For now, Canadians receiving benefit payments via mail are advised not to worry about the immediate May 20 cheque delivery — but should consider switching to direct deposit for future payments as a long-term solution.