The Alberta Legislature, file photo. The provincial government has given more details on a series of measures aimed to provide inflation relief to Albertans. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

More details on Alberta’s proposed inflation relief measures

Nov 28, 2022 | 1:37 PM

EDMONTON, AB – The Government of Alberta is expanding on last week’s announcement of measures aimed at tackling inflation.

Premier Danielle Smith announced the proposed Inflation Relief Act on November 22, 2022. If passed, it would provide relief payments to seniors and families with children, increased funding to those receiving disability supports, indexing of provincial tax brackets, and relief on utilities and gas, among other initiatives.

Now, a media release from the government is providing further details on how certain groups of Albertans can benefit.

Smith says, “The affordability crisis has made life more difficult for seniors, families with children and Alberta’s most vulnerable citizens. Everyone struggling needs to know that they are not alone. Our government is increasing benefits to help make life more affordable and ensure all Albertans can afford the rising costs of life’s necessities.”

The changes outlined below take effect January 1, 2023.

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The maximum core monthly benefit rates for single people with no children will increase by six percent:

• $1,685 to $1,787 – AISH (Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped)
• $745 to $790 – Income Support (expected to work)
• $866 to $919 – Income Support (barriers to full employment)
• $286 to $303 – Alberta Seniors Benefit

Benefit payments under the Alberta Child and Family Benefit, which provides aid to low and middle-income families, will increase by six percent:

• One child – $120
• Two children – $198
• Three children – $260
• Four children – $307

Minister of Seniors, Community, and Social Services Jeremy Nixon says he remains committed to supporting vulnerable Albertans.

“I am proud to see our government taking steps to support seniors and vulnerable Albertans by increasing social benefit payments,” says Nixon. “These programs are vital to supporting thousands of individuals and families, which is why it is so important to ensure they are kept in line with increasing costs of food, utilities and other essential goods and services.”

More details on the provincial government’s affordability initiatives are available on the Government of Alberta website.

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