In response to persistent inflation and rising food prices, the Government of Canada has officially confirmed a new grocery rebate of up to \$978 for qualifying families in 2025. This one-time, tax-free payment will be delivered through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and is designed to help low- and modest-income Canadians manage the increasing cost of essential groceries and household items.
The rebate builds on the 2023 model, but has been enhanced in 2025 to better reflect current economic conditions and household needs.
What Is the \$978 Canada Grocery Rebate?
A federal one-time payment to ease food affordability pressure
The \$978 Canada Grocery Rebate is a non-taxable, one-time payment offered as part of the federal government’s economic relief measures. Distributed through the CRA, the rebate provides direct financial support to help Canadians afford groceries and basic essentials.
Key features of the rebate:
- Tax-free payment
- One-time distribution
- Sent through the CRA
- No application required
- Based on GST/HST credit eligibility
- Amount varies by household size and income
Who Is Eligible for the Grocery Rebate?
CRA uses tax returns and GST/HST eligibility to determine qualification
To receive the 2025 grocery rebate, individuals must meet all of the following criteria:
| Eligibility Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Tax return status | Must have filed a 2024 tax return |
| Residency | Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes |
| Income threshold | Based on adjusted family net income from the 2024 tax year |
| GST/HST credit recipient | Must be eligible for the GST/HST credit in January 2025 |
There’s no need to apply separately—CRA will issue the rebate automatically if you qualify based on your most recent tax information.
How Much Will You Receive?
Payment amounts depend on family size and income level
The rebate is structured to mirror the GST/HST credit system. Amounts are adjusted based on marital status, number of children, and family income. Here’s an overview of estimated maximum payments:
| Family Type | Maximum Rebate Amount |
|---|---|
| Single (no children) | Up to \$234 |
| Married/common-law (no kids) | Up to \$306 |
| Couple with 1 child | Up to \$387 |
| Couple with 2 children | Up to \$467 |
| Couple with 3 children | Up to \$548 |
| Family with 4+ children | \$628–\$978 |
Larger households with more children and lower incomes are eligible for the highest rebates. The maximum \$978 applies to families with four or more children.
When Will the Grocery Rebate Be Paid?
Payment aligns with July 2025 GST/HST credit date
The CRA will issue the grocery rebate alongside the July 2025 GST/HST credit, meaning most eligible Canadians will receive their payment by mid-July 2025.
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Delivery options:
- Direct deposit – If you’re enrolled, the money will appear in your bank account automatically
- Paper cheque – If you haven’t enrolled in direct deposit, you’ll receive a cheque by mail
Important: If you file your 2024 tax return late or it’s incomplete, your rebate payment may be delayed or adjusted.
How to Check Your Eligibility and Expected Rebate Amount
Use CRA’s secure online portal to confirm status
To find out if you qualify and how much you’ll receive:
- Log in to CRA My Account
- Go to “Benefits and Credits”
- Click on “GST/HST Credit”
- Look for the “2025 Grocery Rebate” section
- Verify your eligibility and expected payment amount
Ensure your banking and mailing details are accurate to avoid delays.
Why the Grocery Rebate Matters
Immediate financial relief for vulnerable Canadians
As grocery costs continue to rise across Canada, many families are being forced to cut back on essentials. The grocery rebate offers targeted financial relief that helps:
- Low-income seniors
- Single parents
- Working-class families
- Households with multiple children
By issuing payments automatically based on existing GST/HST credit eligibility, the government ensures that those who need help most receive it without additional administrative barriers.
Make Sure You’re Ready for Your Rebate
Key steps to prepare
To avoid missing your grocery rebate, take the following actions now:
- File your 2024 tax return early and accurately
- Check your CRA account regularly for benefit updates
- Enroll in direct deposit for faster access to payments
- Review your GST/HST credit status
- Update personal details if your income or household structure has changed
By staying proactive, you can ensure that you don’t miss out on this essential support program.
FAQs – \$978 Canada Grocery Rebate 2025
1. Do I need to apply for the \$978 Grocery Rebate?
No. The rebate is issued automatically to eligible Canadians based on their 2024 income tax return and GST/HST credit status.
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2. When will the CRA issue the grocery rebate?
The CRA will release the rebate in mid-July 2025, alongside the regular GST/HST credit payment.
3. What is the maximum amount I can receive?
Eligible families with four or more children can receive up to \$978. Singles and couples with no children receive lower amounts.
4. How can I check if I’m eligible?
Log in to your CRA My Account, go to “Benefits and Credits”, and review the Grocery Rebate 2025 section.
5. What happens if I haven’t filed my 2024 taxes yet?
If your tax return is late or incomplete, your rebate may be delayed or withheld. File promptly to avoid missing your payment.