The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has officially released the GST/HST Credit schedule for 2025, confirming quarterly payment dates and updated annual credit amounts. Designed to support low- and modest-income Canadians, the GST/HST Credit offers tax-free payments of up to $496 annually for eligible individuals—with higher amounts for families and households with children.
You don’t need to apply separately. If you qualify, the CRA will automatically assess your eligibility based on your 2024 tax return.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit is a federal income-tested benefit paid out quarterly. It helps Canadians recover part of the sales taxes they pay on everyday goods and services.
In 2025, the credit is calculated using the income and household data from your 2024 tax return and is distributed between July 2025 and June 2026.
Who Is Eligible for the 2025 GST/HST Credit?
To receive the GST/HST Credit in 2025, you must meet these basic CRA requirements:
- Be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes
- Be at least 19 years old, or:
- Have (or had) a spouse or common-law partner, or
- Be a parent and live with your child
- File your 2024 income tax return, even if you had no income
Eligibility is automatically determined based on your filed return. No additional application is needed.
CRA’s 2025 GST/HST Payment Schedule and Amounts
The CRA will issue GST/HST Credit payments on a quarterly basis, with a total annual maximum of $496 for a single eligible individual.
Quarter | Payment Date | Maximum Individual Payment |
---|---|---|
Q3 | July 5, 2025 | $124 |
Q4 | October 4, 2025 | $124 |
Q1 (2026) | January 3, 2026 | $124 |
Q2 (2026) | April 4, 2026 | $124 |
Total annual credit: Up to $496.
Families, couples, and parents with children may receive additional amounts, depending on income and household size.
How Is the Credit Calculated?
The CRA uses a sliding scale formula based on net family income and number of dependents. As income rises beyond set thresholds, the credit amount is gradually reduced and eventually phased out.
Estimated Income Thresholds for Full or Partial Credit
Household Type | Estimated Max Net Income |
---|---|
Single individual | Up to $45,000 |
Couple without children | Up to $52,000 |
Family with 1–2 children | Up to $65,000+ |
Filing your 2024 taxes on time is crucial. Missing the deadline may result in delayed or missed payments.
What If You Don’t Receive Your Payment?
If you’re eligible but haven’t received your credit, follow these steps:
- Log into CRA My Account to view your benefit status
- Verify your banking details or mailing address
- Wait 10 business days after the payment date, then contact the CRA if no funds have arrived
Always keep your personal information and direct deposit details up to date to avoid delays.
Why the GST/HST Credit Is Important in 2025
As inflation and the cost of living continue to challenge Canadians, the GST/HST Credit serves as a reliable quarterly lifeline for those earning lower or modest incomes.
Common uses for the credit include:
- Grocery bills
- Utility and heating costs
- Public transportation
- School supplies and child-related expenses
Because it’s tax-free and predictable, the credit helps households plan budgets and meet essential monthly needs.
Additional CRA Programs to Explore
If you qualify for the GST/HST Credit, you may also be eligible for other CRA-administered benefits, such as:
- Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Housing, energy, or grocery rebates
- Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Log into CRA My Account to view all available supports based on your income and family situation.
Final Word: File Early, Stay Updated
The GST/HST Credit 2025 is a crucial component of the federal government’s effort to ease financial pressure on Canadians facing high costs. By filing your 2024 tax return early and keeping your CRA profile updated, you ensure your eligibility is assessed correctly and that you receive your quarterly payments without delay.
With up to $496 in annual support and more for families, this benefit can make a real difference.
FAQs
Q1. Do I need to apply separately for the 2025 GST/HST Credit?
No. Simply file your 2024 tax return, and CRA will automatically assess your eligibility.
Q2. When is the next GST/HST Credit payment date?
The next scheduled payment is July 5, 2025.
Q3. What is the maximum I can receive from the GST/HST Credit?
A single person can receive up to $496 per year. Families and individuals with children may qualify for higher amounts depending on household income and size.