The Alberta government is launching a new direct-payment program aimed at providing financial relief to nearly 3.4 million residents as high oil prices continue to stretch household budgets.
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Starting July 1, the newly minted Alberta Energy Rebate will deliver $100 to eligible individuals to help offset the rising costs of fuel, groceries, and other daily essentials.
Premier Danielle Smith announced the initiative, stating that returning elevated oil revenues directly to Albertans offers more flexibility than previous fuel tax relief programs.
“Higher oil prices don’t just affect what people pay at the pump, they can increase the cost of groceries, utilities and other household expenses,” Smith said. “The Alberta Energy Rebate turns higher energy revenues into direct relief for Albertans.”
To qualify for the rebate, residents must be at least 18 years old, have filed a 2025 tax return, and have a net household income of $225,000 or less. Under the program’s guidelines, a household is defined as a single individual or a married/common-law couple.
For a two-adult household, the automatic baseline benefit will be $200. Families can also claim an additional $100 for every other eligible adult family member or dependent aged 18 or older residing in the same home, such as adult children or roommates, though those individuals must apply separately.
Finance minister Jason Nixon defended the direct-payment approach, pointing to the federal government’s brief suspension of its 10-cent fuel excise tax earlier this year, which he argued was quickly erased by fluctuating market prices at the pump.
“Albertans deserve real relief and the freedom to use it when and where it matters most to their families,” Nixon said.
The province confirmed that vulnerable populations — including those receiving the Alberta Seniors Benefit, Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH), the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) and Income Support — will be automatically enrolled to receive the money without needing to apply.
For all other eligible residents, a secure online application portal will open on July 1 and remain accessible until Sept. 30. The rebate is non-taxable and will not impact eligibility for other provincial or federal assistance programs.
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