In early 2025, a viral claim began circulating on social media and through various online platforms, stating that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) would be issuing a $928 one-time payment to eligible Canadians. The claim suggests this payment would be non-taxable, automatic, and based on 2024 income. Many posts assert that individuals earning less than $25,000 and families earning less than $60,000 would qualify—sparking excitement and confusion across the country.
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But is this claim legitimate? Here’s what Canadians really need to know, based on a full fact check using official government sources.
What is the $928 CRA Payment Claim?
The widely shared message suggests:
- A $928 one-time CRA payment will be issued in 2025
- No application is necessary; the money will be automatically deposited
- Eligibility is based on 2024 income:
- Individuals earning less than $25,000
- Families earning less than $60,000
- Tied to the filing of your 2024 tax return by April 30, 2025
- Described as a non-taxable affordability relief payment
The claim resembles past government support programs, but does any official evidence back it up?
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Has the Canadian Government Confirmed This $928 Payment?
No. As of May 2025, there is no official confirmation from the federal government, CRA, or the Department of Finance regarding a $928 payment. No details of such a payment appear:
- In the 2025 federal budget
- On Canada.ca, the official government portal
- On the CRA website
- In any government press release or public statement
There has been no legislation or policy announcement to indicate this payment exists.
What Might Be Causing the Confusion?
While the $928 claim is not true, it may be rooted in confusion about existing government benefits, such as:
1. Canada Workers Benefit (CWB):
A refundable tax credit for low-income earners that can amount to hundreds of dollars per year, sometimes issued in advance. However, amounts vary and are not a flat $928, nor are they guaranteed for all low-income earners.
2. GST/HST Credit and Climate Action Incentive Payment (CAIP):
These are quarterly payments provided to eligible Canadians, especially those with low or modest incomes. Some households may receive multiple payments totaling over $900 annually—but again, not as a one-time $928 payment.
3. COVID-19 Emergency Payments (e.g., CERB, CRB):
Canadians received various support payments during the pandemic. The nostalgia or expectation of similar programs returning may be fueling these rumors.
4. Upcoming Changes in 2025:
Genuine updates to federal programs, including changes to the Canada Child Benefit and GST payments in July 2025, are real—but separate and unrelated to the $928 claim.
Could a New Government Benefit Still Be Announced in 2025?
Yes—governments can introduce new benefits at any time, especially in response to inflation, affordability crises, or economic shifts. Any legitimate future support measure will be:
- Announced in the federal budget
- Published on Canada.ca or CRA’s website
- Confirmed in official government press releases
- Covered by major national news outlets
As of now, no such $928 benefit has been proposed or approved.
Warning: Be Cautious of Scams and Misinformation
When viral claims involve free money, scams often follow. Be on alert if you see:
- Links asking for personal or banking information
- Promises of “early access” to the $928
- Messages that direct you to unofficial websites or apps
- Texts or emails claiming to be from CRA but sent from suspicious addresses
The CRA will never request sensitive personal information via email, text message, or social media.
Always verify benefit information by checking:
- Canada.ca
- Your CRA My Account
- Official government newsrooms and press releases
Final Verdict: Is the $928 CRA Payment Real or Fake?
The $928 CRA payment claim is false. There is no evidence, official announcement, or policy confirming the existence of this one-time payment. While it may have originated from a misunderstanding or combination of real benefits, it remains an unverified and misleading rumor.
Until and unless the Canadian government formally announces such a payment, Canadians should treat this claim as misinformation.
Stay Informed: How to Protect Yourself from Future False Claims
To avoid falling for viral misinformation:
- Always cross-reference with Canada.ca or your CRA account
- Be cautious of videos, posts, or messages that make unverified promises
- Look for official sources, not screenshots or anonymous social media users
- When in doubt, don’t share it—fact-check first
Where to Get Verified Updates About Government Benefits:
- Canada.ca – Benefits and Payments
- CRA My Account
- CRA’s official phone line and support channels
If a real $928 payment is ever introduced, Canadians will hear about it loud and clear—through official channels, not just viral posts.