As the cost of living continues to climb across Canada, the government is stepping in to provide financial relief to those who need it most. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is once again offering the GST/HST credit, a tax-free quarterly payment of up to \$179 aimed at low- and moderate-income Canadians. This payment is intended to offset the goods and services tax (GST) or harmonized sales tax (HST) paid on essentials like groceries, utilities, and household necessities.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a federal benefit program designed to ease the financial pressure of sales tax for qualifying residents. This payment is automatically issued every three months, so long as you’ve filed your tax return and meet the eligibility criteria.
Key features of this benefit:
- Tax-free—does not need to be declared as income
- No application required—you’re automatically considered after filing your taxes
- Helps cover the cost of basic necessities like food and electricity
- Paid quarterly by direct deposit or cheque
2025 Payment Snapshot: Dates and Amounts
When and how much?
For 2025, the maximum base amount is \$179 per individual, but this can vary based on your family and income status.
| Payment Date | Maximum Amount (Individual) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| July 4, 2025 | \$179 | Amount may vary based on eligibility |
This amount reflects the base figure for a single person and may increase for families or decrease for those with higher incomes.
Who Qualifies for the GST/HST Credit?
To receive the GST/HST credit, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Be 19 years or older, or
- Have a spouse/common-law partner, or
- Be a parent living with your child
- Have filed your 2024 tax return
- Meet income thresholds based on your adjusted family net income (AFNI)
The credit phases out gradually as income increases. So while low- and moderate-income households get full benefits, higher earners may receive a reduced amount or none at all.
2025 CRA Payment Schedule for GST/HST Credit
The CRA will send out the GST/HST credit on a quarterly basis throughout 2025. Below is the official schedule:
| Quarter | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Q1 (Jan–Mar) | January 3, 2025 |
| Q2 (Apr–Jun) | April 4, 2025 |
| Q3 (Jul–Sep) | July 4, 2025 |
| Q4 (Oct–Dec) | October 3, 2025 |
If your payment doesn’t arrive on the specified date, wait at least 10 business days before contacting the CRA.
How the CRA Calculates Your GST/HST Credit
The amount you receive isn’t random. The CRA determines your benefit based on:
- Your marital status
- The number of children under 19 in your household
- Your family’s net income, as reported in your 2024 tax return
Key amounts:
- Single individuals can receive up to \$179
- Couples (married or common-law) may receive additional amounts
- Parents are eligible for extra benefits per child
Any change in your household (marriage, separation, income increase, or having a child) can affect how much you get in future quarters.
How to Check Your Status and Payment Details
Verifying your eligibility and checking your payment amount is simple with CRA’s online tools:
- Log in to your CRA My Account
- Navigate to the “Benefits and Credits” section
- View your payment amount, schedule, and status
- Confirm or update your direct deposit or mailing information
Keeping your information up to date ensures timely payments and avoids complications with your benefits.
Why the GST/HST Credit Matters in 2025
This credit is a vital part of Canada’s social support system, particularly during periods of inflation and rising living costs. It ensures that low-income and moderate-income households can continue affording daily necessities.
It is:
- Automatically assessed
- Paid quarterly
- Tax-free
- Designed to ease the burden of sales taxes on essentials
With a maximum of \$179 per eligible individual, the credit offers direct support to help Canadians manage their grocery bills, utility costs, and basic expenses.
Don’t Miss Your Payment—Act Now
To ensure you’re included in the next GST/HST credit cycle:
- File your 2024 tax return promptly
- Update your banking and contact details through CRA My Account
- Monitor your status online and check for direct deposit notifications
By taking these small but crucial steps, you’ll secure access to this important benefit without delay.
FAQs About the 2025 GST/HST Credit
1. Is the GST/HST credit taxable?
No. The GST/HST credit is completely tax-free and does not need to be reported as income on your tax return.
2. Do I need to apply for the GST/HST credit separately?
No. If you’ve filed your 2024 tax return, the CRA will automatically assess your eligibility and issue the credit if you qualify.
3. What if I live with others but file taxes independently?
You can still receive the GST/HST credit as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and file your own tax return.
4. What happens if I change my marital status or income during the year?
Your benefit may be adjusted in the following quarter. Changes in household composition, marital status, or income should be reported to CRA as soon as possible.
5. What if I didn’t receive my payment on the scheduled date?
If your payment hasn’t arrived after 10 business days, contact the CRA via phone or through your CRA My Account to initiate a follow-up.
