On July 4, 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) rolled out the first increased GST/HST payment of the new benefit year. Millions of eligible Canadian taxpayers, including temporary residents, international students, and refugees, saw the boosted credit land in their accounts in the form of GST payments, offering some relief against rising living costs.
This non-taxable payment is designed to offset the impact of goods and services tax (GST) and harmonized sales tax (HST). While the increase provides help for households, experts note that with inflation and climbing rent, groceries, and utilities, the credit only eases the pressure slightly.
What Is the GST Payment?
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment from the CRA. It helps low- and moderate-income Canadians manage the sales taxes they pay daily, from groceries to gas.
Compared to taxable income, these credits are not added to yearly earnings, so every dollar stays in your pocket. Payments are based on your 2024 tax return, with adjustments for income, marital status, and dependent children.
Who Is Eligible for the GST/HST Payments in 2025?
Eligibility depends on several factors:
- Residency: You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes the month before and at the start of the month when the CRA issues the payment. Permanent residents, newcomers, and temporary residents with valid permits (after 18 months in Canada) all qualify.
- Age: You must be at least 19, unless you have a spouse/common-law partner or are a parent living with your child.
- Income: Eligibility is income-tested, with benefits phasing out at higher income levels.
Example: A single individual with adjusted family net income (AFNI) below ~$27,000 could qualify for the full benefit.
How Much Is the New GST Payment in 2025?
For the 2025–2026 benefit year (July 2025 to June 2026), the CRA increased the GST/HST credit amounts by 2.7% to match inflation.
Maximum annual credits are:
- Single individual: $533
- Married or common-law couple: $698
- Per child under 19: $184
A married couple with two children could receive up to $1,066 annually, split into quarterly payments.
GST Payment Dates 2025–2026
The CRA will issue GST/HST credits on the following confirmed dates:
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
- January 5, 2026
- April 3, 2026
Payments usually arrive by direct deposit within a few business days. Cheques may take longer.
How to Apply for the GST/HST Payment
For most Canadians, the credit is automatic if you filed your 2024 tax return. The CRA uses your return to calculate eligibility and amounts.
Newcomers must apply manually in their first year:
- If you do not have children, complete Form RC151.
- If you have children, complete Form RC66 and RC66SCH.
Temporary residents need valid permits that cover at least 18 months. Filing taxes is mandatory, even with no income, to receive payments.
Other CRA Benefits in July 2025
The July 2025 payment cycle also delivered:
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB): July 18
- Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB): July 11
- Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB): July 10
- CPP and OAS payments: July 29
Together, these CRA benefits provided an important mid-summer boost for households across Canada.
The July 4, 2025, GST payments marked the start of the new benefit year. With credits of up to $533 for singles, $698 for couples, and $184 per child, this program continues to offer meaningful support for low- and moderate-income households.
By filing your taxes on time, keeping your CRA account updated, and enrolling in direct deposit, you can ensure you receive every payment on schedule. Stay tuned for the next round of GST/HST credits, set for October 3, 2025. For more information, do follow Immigration News Canada.
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