Automated Benefits Application - Questions and Answers

1. How do I use the Automated Benefits Application (ABA)?
2. Who can use the ABA?
3. What benefits I am applying for if I use the ABA?
4. When can I expect my first payment/notice after using the ABA?
5. What if I do not consent?
6. What are the provinces or territories offering this service?
7. Is the ABA secure?
8. Do I have to file an income tax and benefit return?

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1. How do I use the Automated Benefits Application (ABA)?
At the same time you register the birth of your newborn with your province/territory, you will need to:

• complete and sign the provincial/territorial birth registration form;
• consent to the Vital Statistics Agency of your province/territory sharing your information with the CRA, by signing in the appropriate area of the birth registration form;
• provide your social insurance number (SIN).

For more information, refer to the Information Sheet, RC4476 Canada Child Benefits, that is specific to your province/territory.

2. Who can use the ABA?
Only the mother of the newborn can choose to consent to have the information from the birth registration form transmitted to the CRA so that she can apply for benefits for her child.

3. What benefits I am applying for if I use the ABA?
If you consent to use the ABA on the birth registration form, you will be applying for:

• the Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB);
• the Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB); and
• any related provincial/territorial programs.

Your child will also be registered for the goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) credit.

4. When can I expect my first payment/notice after using the ABA?
Once we receive your application through the ABA from the participating province/territory, you can expect to receive your first notice/payment within 80 calendar days.

5. What if I do not consent?
If you do not give your consent, the information on the birth registration form will not be sent to the CRA using the ABA. You will have to apply for Canada Child Benefits through the CRA either by using the Apply for child benefits online service on My Account, or by using Form RC66, Canada Child Benefits Application.

6. What are the provinces or territories offering this service?
See Participating provinces and territories for the list of provinces and territories offering this service.

7. Is the ABA secure?
Yes. Both the CRA and the participating province/territory have taken all necessary precautions in accordance with their respective legislation to ensure the information is secure.

8. Do I have to file an income tax and benefit return?
Yes. To receive your benefits, you and your spouse or common-law partner (if applicable) must both file an income tax and benefit return every year, even if you have no income to report.