To provide financial relief amid rising living costs, the Canadian government has introduced an extra Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) credit payment in 2025. This tax-exempt payment, distributed every quarter by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), provides financial relief to low- and middle-income individuals and families by partially refunding the GST/HST paid on their purchases.
Understanding the qualification criteria, payment structure, and process is essential to ensuring you receive the full benefit. This guide outlines all the key details about the 2025 additional GST/HST credit and how you can maximize your entitlement.
Overview of the GST/HST Credit
The GST/HST credit is a financial assistance program aimed at reducing the impact of sales tax on lower-income Canadians. This tax-free payment is issued quarterly and is automatically determined based on an individual’s or family’s tax return.
In 2025, an additional payment will be issued to help households cope with inflation and higher costs of living. The CRA assesses eligibility using tax filings, meaning there is no need to apply separately.
Who Qualifies for the 2025 Additional GST/HST Credit?
To be eligible for the extra GST/HST payment in 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Residency Requirement
- You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
Age Requirement
- You must be at least 19 years old before the month your payment is issued.
- If under 19, you may still qualify if:
- You are legally married or in a common-law partnership.
- You are a parent and live with your child.
Income Limits
- Your adjusted family net income must be within the government’s defined threshold based on your 2024 tax return.
Tax Filing Requirement
- You must file your 2024 income tax return by April 30, 2025, even if you had no earnings.
The CRA evaluates eligibility automatically, so no additional application is required.
GST/HST Credit Payment Amounts for 2025
The amount received depends on income level, marital status, and the number of dependent children. Below is a breakdown of the maximum annual credit amounts available for the July 2024 – June 2025 period:
Maximum Annual GST/HST Credit Payments
| Household Type | Maximum Yearly Benefit |
|---|---|
| Single Individual | Up to $519 |
| Married/Common-Law Couple | Up to $680 |
| Each Child Under 19 | Up to $179 per child |
Income Phase-Out Limits
As household income rises, the credit amount gradually decreases. Below are the income limits for partial benefits:
| Household Type | Maximum Income for Partial Benefit |
| Single (No Children) | $52,255 |
| Married/Common-Law (No Children) | $55,295 |
| Married/Common-Law (One Child) | $58,295 |
| Married/Common-Law (Two Children) | $61,295 |
The CRA calculates the exact amount you qualify for based on your 2024 tax return.
Payment Schedule for 2025 GST/HST Credit
The additional GST/HST credit payments will be issued on the following dates:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
If a payment date falls on a weekend or holiday, deposits will be made on the last business day before the scheduled date.
How to Ensure You Receive Your GST/HST Credit Without Issues
To avoid delays or missing your payment, take the following steps:
1. File Your Tax Return on Time
Since eligibility is determined through tax filings, you must submit your 2024 return by April 30, 2025, even if you had no income.
2. Update Your Personal Information
Ensure the CRA has your current address, marital status, and banking details to prevent payment issues.
3. Sign Up for Direct Deposit
Register for direct deposit through CRA My Account for faster, more secure payments.
Examples of GST/HST Credit Payments
Example 1: Single Individual
- Profile: Jason, a single person earning $35,000 per year.
- Calculation:
- Base Credit: $519.
- Since Jason’s income is below the phase-out threshold, he qualifies for the full amount.
- Quarterly Payment: $129.75.
Example 2: Married Couple with Two Children
- Profile: Olivia and Ryan, a married couple with two children and a combined income of $48,000.
- Calculation:
- Base Credit for Couple: $680.
- Children’s Credit: $179 x 2 = $358.
- Total Annual Credit: $680 + $358 = $1,038.
- Quarterly Payment: $259.50.
Final Thoughts
The additional GST/HST credit in 2025 serves as a crucial financial support measure for eligible Canadians. By understanding the requirements, payment amounts, and schedule, you can maximize your benefit. Ensuring timely tax filing, keeping your details updated, and opting for direct deposit can help you receive your payments smoothly and without delays.
Also Read: Canada CRA Benefits Payment Dates for February 2025 – Eligibility, Payment Amount & Updates
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. I need to apply for the GST/HST credit?
No, the CRA automatically determines eligibility based on your tax return. There is no need to submit an application.
2. What happens if I miss the tax filing deadline?
Failing to file your 2024 tax return by April 30, 2025, may result in missed GST/HST credit payments.
3. Can newcomers to Canada receive the credit?
Yes, recent immigrants can qualify as long as they meet the residency requirements and file a tax return.
4. Will income changes affect my payments?
The GST/HST credit is based on the previous year’s tax return, so income changes will impact the next payment cycle rather than the current one.
5. How can I track my GST/HST credit payment?
You can check your payment details and status by logging into your CRA My Account or contacting the CRA’s helpline.
Click here to know more.
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