Canadian Terms Dictionary

A monthly tax-free payment from the Government of Canada to help families with the cost of raising children under 18.

A mandatory pension plan that you and your employer contribute to from every paycheque. Provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.

The federal government agency responsible for collecting taxes and administering tax laws, benefit programs, and credit payments in Canada.

A 3-digit number (300–900) that represents your creditworthiness. Lenders, landlords, and employers use it to assess financial reliability.

A federal program that provides temporary income replacement to workers who lose their job, go on parental leave, or cannot work due to illness.

A physician who provides ongoing, comprehensive healthcare for you and your family. Having a family doctor is the foundation of accessing the Canadian healthcare system.

A quarterly tax-free payment from the CRA to help lower-income Canadians offset the cost of Goods and Services Tax / Harmonized Sales Tax.

A legal contract between a tenant and landlord that outlines the terms of renting a property, including rent amount, duration, and rules.

A document a Canadian employer must obtain from the government to prove no Canadian citizen or permanent resident was available to fill a position before…

A document from the CRA sent after you file your tax return. It confirms the CRA has processed your return and shows your refund, balance…

A monthly pension paid by the Government of Canada to most Canadians aged 65 and older, based on years of residency in Canada.

Ontario's provincial health insurance program that covers most doctor visits, hospital stays, and medically necessary services — free of charge.

An official photo ID card that proves you are a permanent resident of Canada. Required when re-entering Canada by commercial vehicle.

A savings account for a child's post-secondary education. The government adds free grant money — up to $7,200 per child — based on your contributions.

A government-registered retirement account where contributions are tax-deductible. Used to save for retirement while reducing your taxable income today.

Money paid upfront to a landlord before moving in, held as protection against damage or unpaid rent. Rules vary by province.

A 9-digit number issued by the Government of Canada that you need to work legally and access government programs.

A tax form your employer issues each February showing your total employment income and deductions for the previous year. You need it to file your…

A registered account where your money grows tax-free. Withdrawals are also tax-free and do not affect government benefits.

An official document issued by the Government of Canada that authorizes a foreign national to work in Canada for a specified time, employer, or occupation.