As inflation continues to push food and household costs higher, the Canadian government is stepping in with a much-needed one-time Grocery Rebate, aimed at low- and moderate-income households. Scheduled for June 2025, this tax-free payment is designed to help Canadians better afford essential groceries like milk, vegetables, bread, and pulses during difficult economic times.
What Is the Grocery Rebate?
The Grocery Rebate is a federal one-time financial assistance initiative launched in response to rising food prices and inflation. The rebate will be delivered as a direct, tax-free payment, intended to ease the burden on families struggling to meet basic household expenses.
There is no need to apply separately for the rebate. If you are eligible for the GST/HST credit and have filed your 2023 income tax return, you will automatically receive this payment.
Who Is Eligible for Canada’s Grocery Rebate?
To qualify for the June 2025 grocery rebate, you must meet the following conditions:
- You have filed your 2023 income tax return.
- You are eligible for the GST/HST credit.
- Your income falls under the low or moderate-income threshold.
- You reside in Canada when the payment is made.
Example: A single parent with one child and limited income, already receiving the GST/HST credit, will also receive this rebate automatically.
Rebate Amounts: How Much Will You Receive?
The amount of the rebate varies based on family size and marital status. The maximum possible payments are as follows:
| Household Type | Maximum Rebate |
|---|---|
| Single person (no children) | $234 |
| Couple (no children) | $306 |
| Couple + 1 child | $387 |
| Couple + 2 children | $467 |
| Couple + 3 or more children | $628 |
| Single parent + 1 child | $306 |
Note: The exact amount you receive will depend on your 2023 income and eligibility as calculated by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
When Will the Rebate Be Paid?
The CRA will begin issuing notifications on June 1, 2025, and payments will be disbursed on June 15, 2025.
If all your information is accurate and complete, your rebate will be deposited directly into your bank account or sent as a paper cheque, depending on your payment setup with the CRA.
How Will You Receive the Payment?
There are two payment methods:
1. Direct Deposit
If you’ve already set up direct deposit with the CRA, the rebate will be sent straight to your bank account. This is the quickest and most secure method.
2. Paper Cheque
If you have not set up direct deposit, a cheque will be mailed to the address listed in your CRA My Account.
Important Tip: Before June 2025, log in to your CRA account to update your bank and address information to avoid delays or failed payments.
How to Make Sure You Receive the Grocery Rebate
Many Canadians miss out on benefits due to minor oversights. To ensure you receive your June 2025 grocery rebate, follow these steps:
- File your 2023 tax return, even if you had no income.
- Update your bank details and mailing address with the CRA.
- If your marital or family status has changed (e.g., divorce, single parent), update that as well.
- Log in to CRA My Account to regularly check your eligibility and payment status.
Why the Grocery Rebate Matters in 2025
Food inflation in Canada has made everyday items increasingly unaffordable, especially for:
- Single parents balancing household expenses and childcare.
- Seniors on a fixed pension, struggling with rising grocery bills.
- Working-class families whose paychecks are consumed by rent, utilities, and food.
This one-time rebate offers real, immediate relief, allowing families to purchase essential items such as milk, bread, vegetables, cooking oil, lentils, and eggs without added financial stress.
FAQs About the Grocery Rebate
Q1. Do I need to apply for the rebate?
A. No. If you have filed your 2023 income tax return and are eligible for the GST/HST credit, you will automatically receive the payment.
Q2. Is the rebate taxable?
A. No. This is a completely tax-free payment and will not impact your other government benefits.
Q3. What if I don’t get paid on June 15?
If you haven’t received the rebate within 10 business days, contact the CRA or check your CRA My Account to verify the status.