The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit is a valuable non-taxable benefit provided by the Government of Canada to help individuals and families with low or modest incomes offset the GST or HST they pay on purchases. If you’re eligible, it’s important to be aware of when your payments will arrive in 2025, how much you can expect, and what could affect your eligibility.
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This comprehensive guide will walk you through the GST/HST credit payment dates for 2025, eligibility criteria, how amounts are calculated, and how to make sure you receive your payments on time.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment made by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It’s designed to reduce the financial burden of sales taxes for lower-income individuals and families.
Who is eligible:
- Canadian residents for income tax purposes
- Age 19 or older
- OR have (or had) a spouse or common-law partner
- OR are (or were) a parent and live/lived with your child
You must file your income tax return, even if you have no income, to be considered for the credit.
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GST/HST Credit Payment Dates 2025
In 2025, GST/HST credit payments will be issued quarterly. The scheduled payment dates for 2025 are as follows:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
Payments are typically issued on the 5th day of the month, but if the 5th falls on a weekend or holiday, the CRA issues the payment on the last business day before.
If you’re signed up for direct deposit, the funds are usually available in your bank account on the payment date. If you receive your credit by cheque, allow additional time for mail delivery.
How is the GST/HST Credit Amount Calculated?
The amount you receive is based on your:
- Net income (from your previous year’s tax return)
- Marital status
- Number of children under 19
For the 2024–2025 benefit year (payments from July 2024 to June 2025), the maximum annual GST/HST credit amounts are:
| Recipient Category | Before July 2025 | After July 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Single individual | $496 | $519 |
| Married or common-law couple | $650 | $680 |
| Each child under the age of 19 | $171 | $179 |
These figures reflect the increase in the GST/HST credit amounts starting from July 2025, which are designed to account for inflation and help provide additional relief to eligible individuals and families.
These amounts are typically disbursed in four equal quarterly payments. For example, a single individual without children would receive $129.75 every quarter. A married or common-law couple with two children would receive a total annual credit of $1,038, equating to $259.50 per quarter.
Note: These figures may be adjusted slightly for inflation in 2025.
What If You Miss a Payment or Are Not Receiving the GST/HST Credit?
If you think you should be receiving the credit but haven’t gotten a payment:
- Double-check that you filed your latest tax return
- Ensure your address and direct deposit info are current with the CRA
- Allow 10 business days for mailed payments
You can view your GST/HST credit status using your CRA My Account or by calling the CRA directly.
How to Apply or Ensure You’re Enrolled
You don’t have to apply separately for the GST/HST credit. The CRA determines eligibility automatically based on your annual income tax return. This means:
- File your return every year—even if you have no income
- If you have a spouse or common-law partner, both must file
- If you become a new resident of Canada, you need to complete Form RC151 (GST/HST Credit Application)
How Changes in Life Can Affect Your GST/HST Credit
Certain life changes can impact the amount you receive or whether you qualify:
- Marriage or separation: Changes how your family income is calculated
- Birth or adoption of a child: May increase your credit
- Change in income: May increase or decrease your benefit
- Death of a spouse or partner: May alter the benefit structure
Notify the CRA as soon as possible when these changes occur to keep your benefits accurate and avoid repayment issues.
Final Thoughts on GST/HST Credit Payment Dates 2025
Knowing the GST/HST credit payment dates in 2025 can help you budget more effectively, especially if you rely on these quarterly payments for support. By staying informed about your eligibility and making sure your tax and personal information is up to date, you can make the most of this important benefit.
Stay on top of the dates, file on time, and ensure your household gets every dollar it’s entitled to this year.