The Canadian government is offering financial assistance to eligible residents through the GST/HST credit, helping to offset the goods and services tax paid on purchases. This tax-free benefit is especially important for low- and moderate-income households struggling with rising living costs in 2025.
If you meet the criteria and filed your 2023 tax return, you may be eligible to receive the Canada GST Credit in April 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about the credit—including eligibility, payment dates, and how to claim.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST Credit is a quarterly payment distributed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to assist residents in managing the financial burden of consumption taxes. It helps reduce overall tax costs for qualifying Canadians, especially those from low-income households.
The credit is meant to supplement household income and is automatically calculated based on the annual tax return you submit.
Who Is Eligible for the Canada GST Credit in April 2025?
To qualify for the GST credit, you must meet the following criteria:
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You are a Canadian resident.
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You are at least 19 years old, or you have (or had) a spouse or common-law partner.
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You have lived with your child or been the primary caregiver.
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You filed your 2023 tax return, even if you have no income.
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You have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
Eligibility is also influenced by family income, number of children under 19, and marital status.
CRA GST Credit Payment Date – April 2025
The GST credit is issued quarterly in January, April, July, and October. For April 2025, payments were scheduled to begin on April 4, 2025.
If your payment was delayed for any reason, it may still arrive in the upcoming week. Always ensure your banking details and mailing address are updated with the CRA to avoid delays.
Next scheduled GST payment:
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July 2025 (exact date to be announced)
How Much Can You Receive?
The GST credit amount varies depending on:
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Your adjusted family net income
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Your marital status
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The number of eligible children under 19
The CRA calculates the total based on the information provided in your 2023 tax return. While the amount differs per household, it typically ranges between $300 to $978 annually, divided into four payments.
How to Claim the GST Credit
If you are a new resident or recently turned 19, you may need to apply for the credit manually. Otherwise, most eligible Canadians are automatically considered after filing their tax returns.
Steps to claim or ensure your eligibility:
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File your 2023 income tax return on time.
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Confirm your marital status and dependents are correctly reported.
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Ensure your SIN and bank details are current.
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Newcomers to Canada must complete Form RC151 and submit it to CRA.
You can check your GST credit status by logging into CRA My Account or contacting 1-800-959-8281.
Factors That Affect Your GST Credit Amount
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Marital Status: Couples often receive more than single individuals.
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Children: More eligible children can increase your credit.
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Family Net Income: Lower income households get higher credit.
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Tax Return Filing: Ensure it’s complete and accurate.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the GST/HST credit in April 2025?
Anyone who is a Canadian resident, filed a 2023 tax return, has a valid SIN, and meets income thresholds qualifies. Adults 19 and older and those with children are also eligible.
When will the CRA send the GST Credit for April 2025?
The CRA issued payments on April 4, 2025. Delayed recipients may receive their payment during the following week.
How do I check my GST payment status?
Log into your CRA My Account or call CRA’s helpline at 1-800-959-8281 for updates on your payment status.
Is the GST credit taxable?
No, the GST/HST credit is completely tax-free and does not need to be reported as income.
What do I do if I missed the GST credit?
Make sure your tax return is filed and updated with the CRA. If you qualify but didn’t receive the credit, you may receive retroactive payments.
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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.