The Alberta Government is changing the way they handle the carbon levy rebate and benefits from two other programs, when a family member passes away.

The changes will ensure the carbon levy rebate and benefits from two programs do not have to be returned when a family member passes away.

The Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2017, if passed, would mean families are no longer asked to repay rebate or benefit amounts if a death in the household changes their eligibility for the program.

If the legislation is passed, the government will also make similar changes to the Alberta Child Benefit and the Alberta Family Employment Tax Credit (AFETC) programs.

Finance Minister Joe Ceci, president of the Treasury Board, Minister of Finance said the loss of a loved one is a tragedy for any family and the last thing they need is a letter that adds further stress.

"That’s why we are taking action so that families who lose a loved one do not have to repay rebates or child benefit payments," said Ceci. "This is an important, practical change that will make a difference for Alberta families."

The changes include the carbon levy rebate, Alberta Child Benefit and AFETC payments received between Jan. 1 and June 30, 2017 for households whose eligibility changed due to a death.

Families who received a reassessment notice due to a death would not have to repay the amount.

Amounts would be returned to families who already repaid the Canada Revenue Agency.

The proposed legislation would lower the minimum carbon levy rebate to $25 from $100. A household entitled to a total annual rebate of $150 would then receive quarterly payments of $37.50, for example, instead of a single prepayment of the full amount. If a death in the household reduces the amount they are eligible to receive, future payments may be reduced but the family would not need to repay any amounts already received.

If passed, the Tax Statutes Amendment Act would also implement tax credits for Alberta political party leadership contests and nomination races. It would also enact changes to maintain consistency with federal tax legislation.