Manitoba to send renters tax credit as quarterly checks

Premier Wab Kinew announced a plan to issue the Renters Affordability Tax Credit as quarterly checks instead of an annual deduction on income tax returns.

“Rather than waiting for tax time to get a refund … we’re just going to send it out to you so you have cash in hand,” Kinew said.

The credit is currently worth up to 625 dollars annually, with a proposed increase to 675. Seniors will continue to receive an income-based top-up.

Kinew acknowledged administrative costs for sending checks. The Social Planning Council of Winnipeg called it a positive step for many.

The premier stressed there is no plan to politicize the payments, saying, “There’s no plans right now to put my face on the cheque. This is not the Trump passport.”

Similar mailers in other provinces sparked controversy, including Alberta’s Ralph Klein prosperity checks in 2006.