The Revenue Agency of Canada (CRA) will disburse additional Goods and Services Tax (GST) payments in 2025 to help low- and moderate-income Canadians manage rising costs. This tax-free financial relief—often referred to as the grocery rebate—is aimed at easing inflation-related pressure. If you want to know the payment amounts, April 2025 deposit dates, or eligibility rules, this guide explains it all.
What Is the Extra GST Payment?
The Extra GST Payment is a one-time financial support measure offered by the CRA to offset the rising cost of living. It is often referred to as a grocery rebate because it targets food-related inflation. As of April 2025, Canadians can expect this additional support if they meet specific income and filing requirements.
Unlike the regular GST/HST credit, this extra payment is based on Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustments and aims to provide immediate relief from high prices.
How Much Will You Receive?
CRA has announced the following payment amounts for the Extra GST Credit in 2025:
- $496 for eligible single individuals
- $650 for eligible married or common-law couples
- $171 per child under the age of 18
For example, a couple with two children could receive: $650 + ($171 x 2) = $992.
The CRA calculates your total benefit based on your adjusted family net income and number of eligible dependents. Households with higher incomes will see a phased reduction in benefits. If your household net income exceeds $35,000, the credit is reduced by 2% for every dollar above this threshold.
CRA Payment Dates for April 2025
CRA has confirmed the official deposit schedule for the Extra GST Payment:
- April 4, 2025 – Direct deposits begin for most eligible individuals
- Allow up to 10 business days for the payment to reflect before contacting CRA
To ensure you receive the payment without delay, file your 2023 tax return and enroll in CRA’s direct deposit program.
Eligibility for the Extra GST Payment
To qualify for the extra GST payment in 2025, you must:
- Be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes
- Be at least 19 years old (or have a spouse, common-law partner, or child)
- File a 2023 income tax return
- Have adjusted family net income within eligible thresholds
Special provisions apply for:
- New Residents: Must submit Form RC151 with their 2023 tax return
- Turning 19 Before April: File your return early to ensure timely eligibility
- Parents: Receive an additional $171 for each dependent child under 18
Filing taxes—even with no income—is mandatory to receive this payment.
Why This Payment Matters in 2025
This extra GST credit is a targeted response to inflation. Rising food, fuel, and housing prices have disproportionately affected low-income Canadians. The CRA’s one-time grocery rebate helps alleviate some of that financial stress.
Used wisely, this support can assist with:
- Grocery expenses
- Utility bills
- Children’s school costs
- Emergency needs
This is one of several CRA benefit programs introduced to strengthen Canada’s social safety net in 2025.
FAQs
How do I claim the extra GST payment?
You don’t need to apply separately. Filing your 2023 tax return is enough for CRA to determine your eligibility.
When will I receive my extra GST credit?
Most payments will be issued by direct deposit on April 4, 2025.
What happens if I miss the April 4 deposit?
Wait at least 10 business days, then contact CRA if the payment hasn’t arrived.
Will I get the regular GST credit too?
Yes. This extra payment is in addition to your quarterly GST/HST credit.
Does my income affect how much I’ll receive?
Yes. If your net income exceeds $35,000, your payment will be gradually reduced.
Is the payment taxable?
No. The extra GST payment is tax-free.
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.