The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has officially released the 2025 GST/HST Credit schedule, confirming payment dates and updated amounts. Designed to offset the burden of federal sales taxes for low- and modest-income Canadians, the GST/HST Credit offers tax-free quarterly payments totaling up to $496 per year for individuals—and even more for families.
If you qualify, you don’t need to apply separately. This article covers everything you need to know about eligibility, payment amounts, and when to expect your money in 2025.
What Is the GST/HST Credit in 2025?
The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit is a federal income-tested benefit issued every quarter by the CRA. It helps eligible Canadians recover part of the taxes paid on goods and services.
In 2025, the CRA uses data from your 2024 tax return to determine if you qualify for payments between July 2025 and June 2026.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes
- Be at least 19 years old (or have a spouse/common-law partner, or live with your child)
- File your 2024 income tax return, even if you have no income
GST/HST Credit 2025: Payment Schedule and Amounts
Here is the confirmed CRA payment schedule and maximum credit amounts:
| Quarter | Payment Date | Max Credit (Individual) |
|---|---|---|
| Q3 | July 5, 2025 | $124 |
| Q4 | October 4, 2025 | $124 |
| Q1 (2026) | January 3, 2026 | $124 |
| Q2 (2026) | April 4, 2026 | $124 |
Annual Total: Up to $496 for single individuals. Families, couples, and those with children may receive higher amounts depending on household income and size.
How CRA Calculates Your GST/HST Credit
The CRA uses a phased-out formula based on net family income and family size. If your income exceeds a certain threshold, your payment will be reduced or eliminated.
Typical Income Thresholds (Estimates)
| Household Type | Maximum Net Income |
|---|---|
| Single individual | Up to $45,000 |
| Couple with no children | Up to $52,000 |
| Family with 1–2 children | Up to $65,000+ |
To qualify for full benefits, you must file your 2024 tax return on time. Missing the deadline could delay or cancel your payments.
What If You Don’t Receive the Payment?
If you expected a payment but haven’t received it:
- Log into CRA My Account and check payment status
- Verify your direct deposit details or mailing address
- Contact the CRA if no payment arrives within 10 business days of the scheduled date
Keep your personal and financial information updated to avoid issues in future payment cycles.
Why the GST/HST Credit Matters in 2025
With inflation continuing to affect basic living costs in 2025, the GST/HST Credit provides meaningful quarterly support. Many Canadians use these payments to cover:
- Grocery bills
- Public transportation
- Utility and housing costs
- Children’s needs
By offering a predictable and tax-free benefit every three months, the credit provides budget relief and peace of mind for eligible recipients.
The CRA’s 2025 GST/HST Credit remains a key part of Canada’s affordability strategy for lower-income households. With up to $496 in tax-free payments delivered on a quarterly basis, the program helps ease the burden of rising living costs.
To ensure you receive this benefit, file your 2024 tax return on time, keep your personal details updated, and check your CRA My Account regularly for payment notifications.
FAQs
How do I apply for the GST/HST Credit in 2025?
You don’t need to apply separately. Just file your 2024 tax return, and the CRA will assess your eligibility automatically.
When will I receive the next GST/HST Credit payment?
The next confirmed payment is scheduled for July 5, 2025.
What is the maximum GST/HST Credit I can receive?
A single eligible individual can receive up to $496 annually. Families may receive higher amounts based on income and household size.