Federal government adjusts interest rates, pharmacy rules, and grocery benefit as October changes take effect
Starting Wednesday, the Canada Revenue Agency lowers interest rates on overdue taxes, pharmacy technicians gain new authority, and the Groceries and Essentials Benefit makes its first payment.
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A series of federal policy changes take effect in Canada in October, affecting tax administration, pharmacy operations, and household grocery assistance.
The Canada Revenue Agency is adjusting interest rates effective October 1 through December 31. The CRA rate on overdue taxes, Canada Pension Plan contributions, and employment insurance premiums will be seven per cent. The rate for non-corporate taxpayer overpayments will be five per cent, and the rate for taxable benefits on interest-free and low-interest loans will be three per cent.
Health Canada is implementing new safety reporting requirements for drug and natural health product manufacturers starting October 1, bringing Canadian standards in line with international requirements. Manufacturers must now submit annual summary reports assessing all safety information for drugs and natural health products, interim summary reports with analysis of specific safety information for natural products, and issue-related summary reports on Health Canada's request.
Pharmacy operations are gaining new autonomy. Starting October 1, pharmacy technicians are authorized to receive verbal prescriptions and accept shipments, transfer orders, and manage disposals. Pharmacists can now change, extend, or transfer prescriptions of controlled substances for up to two years from the date received. Pharmacy operations can also sell controlled substances to community or institutional pharmacies without requiring a dealer's licence.
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit begins payments on October 5. Maximum payments are $679 for single individuals, $890 for married couples, and $234 per eligible child under age 19. Amounts are based on adjusted family net income from the 2025 tax return.
By the numbers
What are the three CRA interest rates starting October 1?
The Canada Revenue Agency will charge seven per cent on overdue taxes, Canada Pension Plan contributions, and employment insurance premiums; five per cent on non-corporate taxpayer overpayments; and three per cent on taxable benefits on interest-free and low-interest loans.
What new powers do pharmacy technicians gain starting October 1?
Pharmacy technicians are authorized to receive verbal prescriptions and accept shipments, transfer orders, and manage disposals.
What are the maximum payments under the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit?
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit provides a maximum of $679 for single individuals, $890 for married couples, and $234 per eligible child under age 19.
When do the first Groceries and Essentials Benefit payments begin?
Payments begin on October 5.
