01/16/2026
As we settle into January 2026, the Pinnacle Age Well team has received dozens of messages about viral news articles promising a "$300 Federal Senior Payment" or a "$2,200 Support Bonus" scheduled for January 13th.
Here is your official Pinnacle Financial Fact-Check for January 2026:
❌ THE "JAN 13" RUMOR (FALSE) There was no federal "bonus" payment scheduled for January 13, 2026.
The Source: These rumors are coming from "content farm" websites (some even appearing to sell baby products!) designed to trick you into clicking ads or sharing personal data.
The Danger: The government will never send you a text or email asking you to click a link to "claim" a missing deposit. If you see a link for the "Jan 13 Payment," do not click it.
✅ THE REALITY: VERIFIED DATES & HIDDEN GRANTS Here is the legitimate support you can count on this month, verified against government schedules:
1. Your Real Payment Dates (Mark Your Calendar):
Alberta Seniors Benefit: Arrives Monday, January 26, 2026.
OAS & CPP: Arrives Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Note: OAS has received a modest inflation adjustment of 0.3% for this quarter. It’s small, but it is permanent.
2. The "Hidden" Money: SHARP Grants (Not Loans!) Many Calgary seniors ignore the Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Program (SHARP) because they think it’s a loan that puts a lien on their house.
The Truth: If you are a single senior with an income under $34,770 (or a couple under $56,820), you may qualify for a GRANT.
What it is: Up to $5,000 per year that you do not have to pay back.
What it covers: Essential repairs like fixing a furnace, installing safety railings, or repairing a sump pump.
3. Dental Care Renewal The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is in full swing. Remember: to keep your coverage for the 2026 period, you must have filed your taxes!
💡 Pinnacle Takeaway: Don't wait for "bonus cheques" that don't exist. Instead, utilize the programs designed to help you age in place safely. If you need help understanding the SHARP Grant application or finding a contractor to install those safety rails, the community here at the Hub is ready to help.
Let’s Keep Each Other Safe: Have you seen the "Jan 13" ads in your feed? Warn your friends in the comments below! 👇