In response to continued inflationary pressures and the rising cost of living, the Canadian government has announced an additional Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) credit payment in 2025. This financial relief is targeted at low- and moderate-income Canadians to help them manage everyday expenses.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) issues the credit as a tax-free payment on a quarterly basis. While no separate application is required, being aware of your eligibility, expected payment amounts, and the payment schedule is essential to ensure you don’t miss out.
This guide provides a complete overview of the 2025 GST/HST credit, including eligibility requirements, how much you could receive, how to ensure timely payments, and examples to help you estimate your benefit.
What Is the GST/HST Credit and Why Is There an Extra Payment in 2025?
The GST/HST credit is a recurring tax benefit distributed every three months to Canadians with lower incomes. Its purpose is to reduce the burden of federal sales taxes like GST and HST on essential goods and services.
In 2025, the government is offering an additional GST/HST payment to address cost-of-living increases that persist in early 2025. This one-time boost is part of a broader affordability strategy and is based on your 2024 tax return.
Who Qualifies for the Extra GST/HST Credit in 2025?
To receive this extra payment in 2025, you must meet the following requirements:
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Canadian Residency: You must be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes.
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Age Requirement: You must be 19 or older before the month the CRA issues your payment. Exceptions apply for individuals under 19 who:
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Are married or living in a common-law relationship
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Are parents living with their child
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Income Limit: Your 2024 adjusted family net income must be under the CRA’s established threshold.
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Tax Filing: You must file your 2024 tax return by April 30, 2025, even if you earned no income. The CRA uses this information to assess your eligibility automatically.
There is no need to apply separately—filing your taxes is the key to receiving the benefit.
How Much Is the GST/HST Credit in 2025?
Your total credit depends on your income level, marital status, and number of children under 19. Below is a table summarizing the maximum credit available for the benefit period from July 2024 to June 2025:
| Household Type | Maximum Annual Credit |
|---|---|
| Single Adult | Up to $519 |
| Married/Common-Law Couple | Up to $680 |
| Each Child Under 19 | Up to $179 per child |
These amounts may vary depending on your family’s total income and other eligibility factors. The CRA calculates your exact benefit when you file your return.
2025 Income Thresholds for GST/HST Credit Phase-Out
As your income increases, your GST/HST benefit gradually decreases. Here’s a quick look at the maximum income thresholds for receiving partial payments in 2025:
| Family Situation | Income Cut-Off for Partial Credit |
|---|---|
| Single (No Children) | $52,255 |
| Couple (No Children) | $55,295 |
| Couple with One Child | $58,295 |
| Couple with Two Children | $61,295 |
Once your income surpasses these limits, you will not receive any GST/HST credit.
Payment Dates for the GST/HST Credit in 2025
GST/HST credit payments are sent four times a year. For 2025, the CRA will issue payments on the following dates:
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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
If the payment date falls on a weekend or public holiday, you’ll receive the deposit on the previous business day.
How to Ensure You Receive Your GST/HST Credit
While there’s no formal application, there are a few things you must do to ensure you get your GST/HST credit without delays:
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File Your 2024 Tax Return by April 30, 2025
Even if you didn’t earn income, you must still file to qualify. -
Keep Personal Details Updated with the CRA
Changes in your address, marital status, or banking information could affect your payment. -
Use Direct Deposit
Enrolling in direct deposit via your CRA My Account is the fastest and safest way to receive your funds.
Real-Life Examples: How Much Will You Get?
Example 1: Single Adult with Modest Income
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Profile: Marcus, single, earning $35,000 in 2024
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Calculation:
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Base GST Credit: $519 (full amount, income under threshold)
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Quarterly Payment: $519 ÷ 4 = $129.75 per quarter
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Example 2: Married Couple with Two Children
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Profile: Olivia and Noah, married, two children, combined income of $48,000
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Calculation:
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Couple Base Credit: $680
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Children: 2 x $179 = $358
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Total Annual Credit: $680 + $358 = $1,038
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Quarterly Payment: $1,038 ÷ 4 = $259.50 per quarter
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Conclusion: Don’t Miss Out on Your 2025 GST/HST Credit
The extra GST/HST credit in 2025 is a crucial support for Canadians facing higher living costs. Filing your taxes on time and keeping your information current with the CRA is all it takes to access this benefit. Whether you’re single or supporting a family, every dollar counts—and this tax-free credit can make a meaningful difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need to apply separately for the extra GST/HST payment in 2025?
No. The CRA automatically considers you based on your 2024 tax return.
2. What if I missed a payment?
Log into your CRA My Account to check your payment history. If something’s missing, contact the CRA.
3. Is the GST/HST credit taxable?
No. This is a tax-free benefit and does not count toward your income.
4. Can newcomers to Canada qualify?
Yes, if they meet the residency, income, and filing requirements.
5. What happens if my marital status changes mid-year?
Report the change to the CRA immediately. Your benefit may be adjusted based on your new family income.
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