The New Year brought more than one reason to celebrate for families and young adults in Ontario.

As of January 1st, every Ontarian, 24 or younger with a health card can now get their prescription meds for free.

Health Minister, Dr. Eric Hoskins, says this will be a big help for a lot of families.

“The beauty of it is, it’s absolutely free of charge. Families in the province that can’t afford their medications, they’re going to be able to afford their medications,” he says.

Ontario is the first province in Canada to offer children and young adults free Pharmacare.

Hoskins says they’re encouraging others to do the same.

 

Meantime, the Canadian Taxpayer Federation says most household types in Ontario will pay a bit more income tax this year.

Federally, Employment Insurance premiums will rise slightly while the indexation of the Canada Child Benefit will also come into force on July 1, 2018, leading to a slight decrease in payments to eligible families on January 1st.

There are 44 household scenarios and all but four will see a tax increase in Ontario, ranging from $8 to $218.

Check out taxpayer.com for more information.

 

(AP Photo/Patrick Sison)

 

 

Filed under: Free pharmacare, income taxes