On April 4, 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will distribute the Goods and Services Tax (GST) / Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) Credit to eligible Canadians. This quarterly payment is designed to assist low- and modest-income individuals and families by offsetting the GST/HST they pay on goods and services.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the upcoming GST payment, including eligibility, payment amounts, and how to ensure you receive your benefits.
Payment Details
Payment Date
- April 4, 2025 (Friday)
Payment Method
- The payment will be issued through direct deposit or a mailed cheque, based on your CRA account preferences.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the GST/HST Credit, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Age: Must be 19 years of age or older by April 4, 2025.
- Income Thresholds: Your family net income from 2023 must be below the following limits:
- Single individuals: Up to $54,704
- Families (couples or single parents): Up to $72,244, with higher thresholds for additional children.
Payment Amounts
The GST/HST Credit amount varies based on your family situation and income. Here are the details:
For Single Individuals:
- Up to $129.75 per month.
- Additional $40.25 if you have a spouse or common-law partner.
- Further $44.75 for each child under 19 years.
For Single Parents:
- Up to $129.75 per child under 19 years.
For Couples:
- Up to $170 combined.
- Additional $44.75 for each child under 19 years.
Note: The amounts may vary slightly depending on your province or territory. For example, some provinces may provide an extra amount.
How to Apply
In most cases, no separate application is necessary if you file your taxes annually. If you have already filed your 2023 tax return, the CRA will automatically assess your eligibility and send the credit accordingly.
- Newcomers to Canada must fill out Form RC151 to register for the GST/HST Credit and ensure eligibility.
- If you haven’t filed taxes for the previous year, it is important to submit your 2023 tax return even if you had no income, so the CRA can process your credit.
Additional Benefits
In addition to the GST/HST Credit, many Canadians are also eligible for other federal and provincial benefits that are often distributed at the same time:
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB): This monthly benefit helps families with children under 18 years old.
- Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB): Provides additional help with energy costs and sales tax.
- Canada Carbon Rebate: Offsets some of the costs from the carbon tax.
Payment Schedule
The GST/HST Credit is issued quarterly, with the upcoming payments set for:
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
If you’re registered for direct deposit, ensure that your banking details are up to date to avoid delays.
The GST/HST Credit is a valuable financial benefit for eligible Canadians, especially for those with low or modest incomes. With the upcoming payment on April 4, 2025, it’s important to ensure that you are eligible and that your information with the CRA is up to date.
Keep track of your payments, and if you’re eligible, this extra financial support can help offset the costs of goods and services you purchase.
FAQs
How do I know if I’m eligible for the GST/HST Credit?
Eligibility is determined based on your income, residency status, and whether you are at least 19 years old. If you’ve filed your 2023 tax return, the CRA will assess your eligibility.
When will I receive my GST/HST Credit payment?
Payments are issued on April 4, 2025, and quarterly thereafter. Ensure your bank account details are correct for direct deposit.
Will receiving the GST/HST Credit affect my other benefits?
No, the GST/HST Credit is a separate benefit that will not impact other government payments or benefits.