As the cost of living continues to strain household budgets, many Canadians received a welcome surprise this Friday — the final GST/HST credit payment of the year has been deposited. This government-issued, tax-free benefit helps offset the cost of the federal and provincial sales taxes paid on everyday purchases, particularly for those with low to modest incomes.
Table of Contents
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The Goods and Services Tax / Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit is a quarterly payment distributed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to support eligible Canadians. Designed to soften the impact of sales taxes on essential goods and services, the credit is issued four times per year — in January, April, July, and October.
The current federal GST rate is 5%. In provinces like Ontario, where the 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) applies, the combined federal and provincial tax makes the credit particularly valuable.
Why This Credit Matters Now
This final payment of 2025 arrives just days after Ontario implemented a modest minimum wage increase and amid persistent financial pressures. Canadians continue to cite inflation and the rising cost of living as major economic concerns heading into 2026. With food prices still climbing faster than the inflation rate, any financial relief is welcome.
Who Is Eligible for the GST/HST Credit?
Eligibility for the GST/HST credit is primarily based on your age, income, family status, and whether you file your taxes on time.
General Eligibility Requirements
You may qualify for the GST/HST credit if you meet the following criteria:
- You are at least 19 years old, or
- You are under 19 but:
- Have (or had) a spouse or common-law partner, or
- Are a parent who lives (or lived) with your child
You must also be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes the month before and during the month a payment is made.
Special Cases
- Turning 19 soon? You’re eligible as long as you turn 19 before the next payment date and have filed your tax return.
- Shared custody? You may receive half the credit for each child, shared equally between both parents.
- New to Canada? You can apply manually, even if you haven’t filed a tax return yet. More on that below.
2024 Income Thresholds for the GST/HST Credit
The amount you receive (or whether you qualify at all) depends on your adjusted family net income from the previous tax year. Here’s how income thresholds are broken down:
For Single Individuals:
- No children: Less than $56,181
- 1 child: Less than $63,161
- 2 children: Less than $66,841
- 3 children: Less than $70,521
- 4 children: Less than $74,201
For Married or Common-Law Couples:
- No children: Less than $59,481
- 1 child: Less than $63,161
- 2 children: Less than $66,841
- 3 children: Less than $70,521
- 4 children: Less than $74,201
If your income is above these limits, you may receive a reduced payment or none at all.
How Much Will You Get From the GST/HST Credit?
In July 2025, the CRA adjusted benefit amounts by 2.7% to help keep up with inflation. This is a smaller increase compared to recent years — 4.7% in 2024 and 6.3% in 2023.
Here’s what you could receive for the October 2025 installment:
- $533 if you’re single
- $698 if you’re married or living common-law
- $184 extra for each child under 19
So, for example, a married couple with two children could receive up to $1,066 this Friday.
To get a more accurate estimate, use the CRA’s Child and Family Benefits Calculator available online.
When and How Will You Receive the Payment?
Payment Schedule
This is the fourth and final payment of the year. The 2025 GST/HST credit was distributed on:
- January 3
- April 4
- July 4
- October 4
The next payment will arrive on January 5, 2026.
Direct Deposit or Cheque?
- If you’re registered for direct deposit with the CRA, the funds should already be in your bank account.
- If not, a cheque will be mailed to your registered address.
If your payment hasn’t arrived by the expected date, the CRA recommends waiting 10 business days before contacting them.
How to Apply for the GST/HST Credit
Most Canadians are automatically assessed for eligibility when they file their annual income tax return — even if you earn no income. However, new residents and certain other groups may need to apply manually.
For New Residents With No Children
You can apply online through the CRA portal without filing a tax return.
For New Residents With Children Under 19
You’ll need to:
- Download and print Form RC66 and RC66SCH
- Include proof of birth for each child
- Mail the completed documents to your nearest tax centre
If you’re also eligible for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), submitting the CCB application will also determine your GST/HST credit eligibility.
Changes That May Affect Your GST/HST Credit
Your payments may be recalculated if any of the following changes occur:
- You or your partner are reassessed by the CRA
- Your marital status changes
- You gain or lose custody of a child
- Your income changes
- A child turns 19 years old
- The recipient passes away
It’s important to keep your CRA information updated to avoid delays or overpayments.
Final Thoughts: Small Relief in a Tough Economy
While the GST/HST credit won’t fully offset rising living costs, it can make a tangible difference — especially for families living on tight budgets. With many Canadians still struggling to keep up with grocery bills, rent, and other essentials, these quarterly payments provide a welcome cushion.