As living costs rise across Canada the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is offering targeted financial support through the GST/HST credit, providing up to \$179 for eligible individuals in 2025.
This tax-free quarterly benefit is designed to help low- and moderate-income households offset goods and services tax (GST) or harmonized sales tax (HST) costs on everyday necessities such as groceries, utilities, and household items.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a federal benefit program that reduces the impact of sales tax for lower-income Canadians. It is automatically issued if you meet the income and residency requirements and have filed your previous year’s tax return.
Key features of the program:
- No separate application needed – it’s assessed automatically.
- Non-taxable – you do not report it as income.
- Paid quarterly – to help manage recurring expenses like food, rent, and utilities.
Payment Details at a Glance
For 2025, the maximum base amount for a single individual is \$179 per quarter. This amount is based on your income, marital status, and number of dependent children.
Example:
- Payment Date: July 4, 2025
- Maximum for Single Individual: \$179
- Adjustments: Amounts vary for couples and parents based on family size and income.
Eligibility Criteria for the GST/HST Credit
To qualify for the GST/HST credit in 2025, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Be 19 years of age or older, or:
- Have a spouse or common-law partner, or
- Be a parent living with your child.
- Have filed your 2024 tax return.
- Meet the income thresholds based on your adjusted family net income (AFNI).
Note: The benefit amount decreases as income increases, and households above the upper threshold will not qualify.
CRA Payment Schedule for GST/HST Credit 2025
Payments are made on a quarterly basis:
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 does not arrive on the scheduled date, wait 10 business days before contacting CRA.
How Is the Payment Calculated?
The CRA determines your GST/HST credit amount based on:
- Marital status.
- Number of children under 19 years old.
- Adjusted family net income from your 2024 tax return.
Key figures to remember:
- Single individuals: Up to \$179.
- Couples: Additional amount for a spouse or common-law partner.
- Parents: Extra amount per eligible child.
Important: Any change in marital status, family size, or income can affect your benefit in future quarters.
How to Check Your Eligibility and Payment Details
To confirm your eligibility or view your payment details:
- Log in to your CRA My Account.
- Navigate to the “Benefits and Credits” section.
- Review your payment schedule and amount.
- Verify and update your banking and mailing information.
Keeping your CRA details up to date helps ensure your payments arrive on time and without issues.
Why This Credit Matters
The \$179 GST/HST credit may seem modest, but for many Canadians, it provides important quarterly relief against inflation and rising costs. By targeting low- and moderate-income households, the program ensures support reaches those who need it most — automatically and without extra paperwork.
5 FAQs
Q1: Is the GST/HST credit taxable?
A: No. It is completely tax-free and does not need to be reported on your income tax return.
Q2: Do I need to apply for the GST/HST credit?
A: No. If you file your 2024 tax return, CRA will automatically assess your eligibility.
Q3: Can I still get the credit if I live with others but file independently?
A: Yes. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and file your own tax return, you may receive the payment.
Q4: How often is the credit paid?
A: Four times a year — in January, April, July, and October.
Q5: What if my payment is late?
A: Wait at least 10 business days after the scheduled date before contacting CRA for assistance.