General
Settlement worker
A professional who helps newcomers understand services, benefits, and applications in their community.
Settlement workers can help with language barriers and complex multi-step applications.
Benefits glossary
Canadian benefits glossary
Government benefits, tax, disability and drug-coverage terms explained in plain language.
Definitions are educational. Official program rules still apply.
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Sponsorship bar (benefits)
A period when sponsored immigrants may be ineligible for some income programs because their sponsor committed to support them.
Length and affected programs vary, immigration status affects which benefits you can receive.
General
Spouse or partner (benefits)
For most federal benefits, your legally married spouse or common-law partner's income and status are combined with yours.
Separation, divorce, or new relationships can change benefit amounts mid-year.
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Use these MyEligible tools to explore programs after you understand a term.
Sources and methodology
Definitions explain common government and program language in plain words. They are starting points for understanding, not legal advice or official eligibility decisions. Confirm important details with the official program, CRA, Service Canada, or a qualified professional.
Glossary reviewed September 13, 2026