In 2025, Canadian families are feeling the pressure of inflation, rising food prices, and increased utility costs. The federal government’s $179 GST/HST Credit offers crucial financial relief for those in low- to moderate-income brackets. Designed to cushion the impact of consumption taxes like the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), this quarterly benefit is especially helpful for households with children.
Families receive $179 per child every three months, resulting in $716 per child annually. These payments arrive automatically, provided eligibility is met and tax returns are up to date.
Quick Overview of the $179 GST/HST Credit 2025
The GST/HST Credit is managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and aims to make everyday living more affordable for those in need. Payments are calculated using income data from your 2023 tax return and are not considered taxable income.
Key Highlights:
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Administered by: Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
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Quarterly amount per child: $179
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Annual coverage: July 2024 to June 2025
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Payment frequency: Every three months
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Eligibility: Based on 2023 tax return
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Action required: File 2023 income tax return
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Type of benefit: Tax-free and automatic
How the GST/HST Credit Supports Families
The GST/HST Credit is not just a financial boost—it’s a safety net for Canadian families. With each additional child, the total benefit increases, making it especially helpful for large households.
For example:
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A couple with two children could receive a total of $2,112 annually
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$680 (base for couple)
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$1,432 (2 children × $179 × 4 quarters)
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This benefit arrives without requiring an application if you’ve filed your taxes.
Who Can Receive the GST/HST Credit in 2025?
To be eligible, individuals must meet the following criteria:
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Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
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Be 19 years or older
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If under 19, you must be living with your child or have a spouse/common-law partner
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File a 2023 income tax return
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Parents automatically qualify for the per-child amount if income and residency requirements are met
Your current financial status in 2025 does not affect the payments but will influence future credits starting July 2025.
Payment Dates for the GST/HST Credit in 2025
The CRA issues payments every three months. Here’s the schedule for 2025:
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January 3, 2025
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April 4, 2025
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July 4, 2025
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October 3, 2025
Payments are made through direct deposit or by mailed cheque. Direct deposit is faster and more secure, and users are encouraged to sign up through the CRA portal.
How to Ensure You Receive the Credit
Receiving the GST/HST Credit is typically automatic, but here’s how to make sure nothing gets missed:
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File your 2023 income tax return—even if you earned no income
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Keep your personal information updated with the CRA (marital status, number of children, address)
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Use the CRA My Account to view payment schedules and update banking details
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Eligible individuals are automatically enrolled—no separate application is needed
Will the Payment Amount Change?
The GST/HST Credit is indexed to inflation and reviewed annually. Depending on inflation data and policy updates, the amount per child may increase starting July 2025. This indexing ensures the credit continues to support families effectively.
What If Your Situation Changes in 2025?
While the credit is based on your 2023 tax return, it’s important to inform the CRA if your household circumstances change. Events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child may impact your eligibility for the following year’s payments.
Even if your income increases or decreases this year, your payments for 2025 will remain the same and reflect changes only in the next cycle.
Conclusion
The $179 GST/HST Credit Payment 2025 remains a vital form of support for Canadian households dealing with high living costs. With automatic enrollment and quarterly tax-free payments, it provides peace of mind and stability for eligible families.
If you haven’t already, make sure your 2023 taxes are filed and your CRA information is accurate. That simple step can unlock over $700 per child in valuable, untaxed support for the year.
FAQs
Do I need to apply separately for each child?
No. The CRA calculates your total benefit based on your tax return and the family details on file.
Can I still receive the credit if I didn’t file taxes?
No. Filing your 2023 tax return is required, even if you had no income, in order to receive this benefit.
Is the GST/HST Credit taxable?
No. This credit is completely tax-free and doesn’t need to be reported as income.
Are permanent residents eligible?
Yes. As long as you are a Canadian resident for tax purposes and meet age and income conditions, you can receive the credit.
What should I do if I didn’t get my payment?
Check your CRA My Account to review your benefit status or contact the CRA. Delays are often due to unfiled taxes, outdated personal info, or banking errors.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.