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Premier Danielle Smith announces a new affordability measure on June 17, 2026, to help Albertans and families manage the high cost of living. (Image Credit: Government of Alberta-YouTube)
Financial Help

Smith promises one-time affordability payments of $100 for Albertans

Jun 17, 2026 | 3:01 PM

Premier Danielle Smith is offering Albertans a one-time payment of $100 to help pay their bills.

She says the payment will be made instead of the province reducing its tax on gasoline at the pumps.

People can start applying for the payments starting July 1. Smith says nearly 3.4 million adults will be eligible.

She says the payment ensures money gets into the hands of families facing rising costs for everything from food to housing and transportation.

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation, however, is calling on the Alberta government to cut the fuel tax to zero immediately instead of forcing taxpayers to apply for rebates.

“This government is not keeping its promise to cut fuel taxes next month and these $100 rebates are not enough to provide real relief at the pumps,” said Kris Sims, CTF Alberta Director, in a press release Wednesday. “Finance Minister Jason Nixon should start things off right in his new role and drop the Alberta fuel tax down to zero instead of playing games with rebates.”

Smith says reductions in gas taxes don’t ensure savings flow to consumers.

(The Canadian Press, with files from rdnewsNOW)