Benefit cheque scam targets Canadians

The Canada Revenue Agency is warning of a new scam targeting Canadians.

The fraud is related to the proposed $250 Working Canadians Rebate, officials with the federal tax agency say.

Scammers are sending out text messages requesting people reply and follow instructions to deposit the money.

“The CRA does not send text messages about benefits, credits, rebates, tax refunds or payments,” the CRA said.

Anyone who receives such a text should not reply and not click on a link if there is one.

The Working Canadians Rebate, recently announced by the Trudeau government in addition to the proposed GST holiday, would automatically be delivered to eligible Canadians in early spring 2025 either by direct deposit or cheque, the CRA noted.

Political disagreements over the proposal, however, mean it is currently unclear if the rebate will be approved at all.

The Working Canadians Rebate will be automatically delivered by direct deposit or by cheque to eligible individuals after enactment of the legislation. /2

— Canada Revenue Agency (@CanRevAgency) November 28, 2024