The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit is a tax-free benefit that helps low- and modest-income Canadians offset the cost of GST or HST. For 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed the maximum amount — up to $496 annually for individuals — and released the quarterly payment schedule.
This credit is paid automatically if you meet the eligibility criteria and file your taxes. No application is needed — making it one of the simplest benefits to access in Canada.
Summary Table: $496 GST/HST Credit 2025
Field |
Details |
|---|---|
Benefit Name |
GST/HST Credit |
Annual Maximum (2025) |
$496 for single individuals (families may receive more) |
Payment Frequency |
Quarterly |
Payment Dates (2025) |
Jan 3, Apr 4, Jul 4, Oct 3 |
Eligibility |
Canadian resident, age 19+, filed 2024 tax return, below income threshold |
Delivery Methods |
Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
Official Website |
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST Credit is a yearly benefit paid in four equal instalments to eligible individuals and families with low or modest incomes. It’s designed to ease the impact of sales taxes on everyday expenses like groceries, clothing, and household goods.
Key features:
- Tax-free — Payments are not taxable and won’t affect other benefits.
- Automatic — No separate application is needed; eligibility is assessed when you file your tax return.
- Quarterly payments — Helps provide consistent financial relief throughout the year.
Eligibility Criteria for 2025
To qualify for the GST/HST Credit in 2025, you must meet all of the following:
- Residency — Be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes.
- Age — At least 19 years old before the month the payment is issued.
- Tax Filing — Have filed your 2024 income tax return, even if you had no income.
- Income Threshold — Household net income must be below CRA limits (varies by family size and province).
- Family Information — Ensure marital status and dependent details are accurate.
Note: Even individuals with zero income can receive the credit, provided they file their taxes.
How Much You Could Receive
The CRA calculates your credit based on your 2024 tax return. For 2025:
- Single individuals — Up to $496 annually, paid as $124 every quarter.
- Families with children under 19 — May receive a higher amount.
- Lower income = higher credit — Those with the lowest incomes receive the maximum.
Some provinces also offer additional provincial sales tax credits that may be combined with the GST/HST Credit.
2025 GST/HST Credit Payment Schedule
Quarter |
Payment Date |
Maximum Amount Per Person |
|---|---|---|
Q1 |
January 3, 2025 |
Up to $124 |
Q2 |
April 4, 2025 |
Up to $124 |
Q3 |
July 4, 2025 |
Up to $124 |
Q4 |
October 3, 2025 |
Up to $124 |
Total |
— |
Up to $496 per year |
Payments are issued automatically and are consistent throughout the year.
How Payments Are Delivered
The CRA offers two delivery methods:
- Direct Deposit — The fastest and most secure option, with funds arriving on or near the payment date.
- Cheque by Mail — May take several business days after the issue date.
To avoid delays:
- Update your banking information in CRA My Account.
- Keep your mailing address current.
How the Credit Is Calculated
The CRA automatically determines your credit amount using:
- Net household income
- Marital status
- Number of dependent children under 19
- Province or territory of residence
You don’t need to calculate anything yourself — simply file your tax return on time.
Importance of Filing Taxes
One of the most common reasons people miss out on the GST/HST Credit is not filing a tax return. Even if you earned no income in 2024, filing your return ensures the CRA can assess your eligibility.
Late filing can result in:
- Missed or delayed payments
- Lower calculated benefits
- Loss of retroactive payments for previous years
Why the GST/HST Credit Matters
In a period of high living costs, the GST/HST Credit:
- Helps pay for groceries and household needs
- Provides predictable quarterly relief for budgeting
- Supports seniors, students, and families on modest incomes
- Complements other federal and provincial benefits
Though the payment amount may seem modest, the regularity and tax-free nature make it a reliable source of financial help.
How to Check Your GST/HST Credit Status
You can monitor your payments and eligibility by:
- Logging into CRA My Account.
- Navigating to the Benefits and Credits section.
- Viewing upcoming payment dates and amounts.
- Updating direct deposit or mailing information.
- Reporting delays or missing payments to the CRA.
FAQs
Q1: When is the next GST/HST Credit payment?
A: October 3, 2025.
Q2: How much is the GST/HST Credit in 2025?
A: Up to $496 annually for single individuals; families may get more.
Q3: Do I need to apply for this credit?
A: No, it’s automatic if you file your 2024 taxes.
Q4: Can I get the credit if I had zero income?
A: Yes, as long as you file your return and meet eligibility criteria.
Q5: How can I check my payment status?
A: Through CRA My Account in the Benefits and Credits section.
Final Word – A Simple, Reliable Benefit
The GST/HST Credit continues to be a dependable financial boost for millions of Canadians. By filing your taxes and keeping your personal details current, you can access up to $496 in 2025 automatically, with no additional paperwork.
For individuals and families managing tight budgets, it’s a straightforward way to get timely, tax-free support.
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