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The Goods and Services Tax and Harmonized Sales Tax Credit, known simply as the GST/HST credit, is one of the most important financial support programs offered by the Canadian government. Designed to provide relief for individuals and families with low or modest incomes, the credit ensures that the burden of sales tax does not fall too heavily on those who are already stretched financially. As we move into 2025, many Canadians are looking for clarity on payment dates, eligibility rules, and any new updates to the program.
This article explores everything you need to know about the GST/HST credit in 2025, including who qualifies, how much you can expect, when payments will arrive, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.
Understanding the GST/HST Credit
The GST/HST credit is a non-taxable payment issued quarterly by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Its purpose is to offset the cost of the federal Goods and Services Tax and, where applicable, the Harmonized Sales Tax. Rather than reimbursing Canadians after each purchase, the credit is distributed regularly in cash payments. This system provides ongoing support throughout the year and ensures households can better manage day-to-day expenses.
The program is especially significant for individuals and families with low or modest incomes, where every dollar counts toward groceries, utilities, or transportation.
Who Is Eligible in 2025
To receive the GST/HST credit in 2025, you need to meet specific requirements. First, you must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes at the beginning of the payment month. Age also plays a role: you should be at least 19 years old. However, if you are younger than 19, you may still qualify if you have a spouse or common-law partner or if you are a parent living with your child.
Eligibility is also tied to your tax return. Even if you had no income in 2024, you must file your return in order to be considered. The CRA uses the details from your tax return, such as adjusted family net income, marital status, and number of children, to determine whether you qualify and how much you will receive.
Certain restrictions apply. For example, you are not eligible if you are not considered a resident for tax purposes, if you are incarcerated for more than 90 days, or if you pass away before the month the payment is issued.
How the Credit is Calculated
The amount you receive depends on your family situation and income. The CRA uses your adjusted family net income to determine whether you qualify for the full amount or if your entitlement will be reduced.
For the payment period beginning in July 2025, the following maximum annual amounts are set:
- Up to $533 for a single individual
- Up to $698 for a married or common-law couple
- An additional $184 for each child under 19 who lives with you
The credit is gradually reduced as income rises, so households with higher incomes may see smaller amounts or none at all. The structure ensures that support is targeted toward those who need it most.
Payment Dates for 2025
The GST/HST credit is issued quarterly, meaning recipients receive four payments throughout the year. For the 2025-2026 payment cycle, which is based on the 2024 tax return, the scheduled dates are:
- July 5, 2025
- October 5, 2025
- January 5, 2026
- April 5, 2026
If the scheduled date falls on a weekend or statutory holiday, the CRA issues the payment on the last business day before that date. Payments are most often deposited directly into bank accounts if recipients are enrolled in direct deposit, though paper cheques are still used for those who have not signed up electronically.
What’s New or Important for 2025
One key change to note for 2025 is that the CRA will be using 2024 income tax returns as the base year for calculating the credit amount for the July 2025 to June 2026 payment cycle. If you have not filed your 2024 return, your payments may be delayed or withheld.
In addition, any changes in family circumstances can affect your entitlement. For example, if you get married, separate, or welcome a child, you must update your information with the CRA to ensure that your credit is adjusted appropriately. Failure to do so may result in receiving too much or too little.
Another important reminder is that when the total quarterly credit is small (less than $50 per quarter), the CRA may combine payments and issue them as a lump sum.
How to Ensure You Receive the Credit
The most critical step to receiving the GST/HST credit is filing your tax return every year, even if you had no income. Many Canadians miss out simply because they believe a return is unnecessary if they didn’t earn money, but the CRA requires this information to process the credit.
You should also sign up for direct deposit to ensure payments arrive on time. Direct deposit eliminates the risk of delays that sometimes occur with mailed cheques. Using CRA’s “My Account” service is another effective way to track your payments, view notices of determination, and update personal information such as your address or marital status.
Why the Credit Matters
While the GST/HST credit may not seem like a large sum, it provides vital relief for households balancing rising living costs. For families with multiple children, the amounts can add up to meaningful support over the course of a year. Combined with other federal and provincial benefits, it plays a role in reducing poverty and maintaining purchasing power.
Moreover, the program is automatic for those who qualify, which means no separate application is necessary beyond filing your tax return. This simplicity ensures that more Canadians can access it without complicated paperwork.
Final Thoughts
The GST/HST credit continues to be a lifeline for many Canadians in 2025, especially as inflation and cost-of-living pressures remain top concerns across the country. Knowing when payments are scheduled, how eligibility is determined, and how much you may receive can help you plan your finances more effectively.
The key takeaway is simple: always file your taxes on time, keep your personal details updated with the CRA, and take advantage of online tools and direct deposit to avoid delays. With these steps, you can make sure you receive the GST/HST credit you are entitled to, giving your household budget a helpful boost throughout the year.