The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has officially announced the details of the GST/HST credit for 2025. This benefit provides tax-free payments every three months to help low- and middle-income households manage the rising cost of living.
The good news is that Canadians do not need to apply separately—eligibility is checked automatically when filing your tax return.
This article explains the payment amounts, dates, eligibility rules, and smart ways to use the credit so you can make the most of this financial support in 2025.
What is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a government benefit that gives quarterly payments to individuals and families. The purpose of the credit is to reduce the impact of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), especially for households with lower incomes.
- Payments are tax-free
- Issued every three months (January, April, July, October)
- No extra application needed—CRA decides based on your income tax return
How Much You Will Receive in 2025
The benefit period for 2025 runs from July 2024 to Mid 2025. The amount you receive depends on your household type and family size.
Here is the breakdown:
| Household Type | Annual Amount | Quarterly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Single Adult | $519 | $129.75 |
| Couple | $680 | $170 |
| Per Child (under 19) | $179 | $44.75 |
Example: A couple with two children can receive $680 + $179 + $179 = $1,038 annually, or about $259.50 per quarter.
This shows how the credit grows with each child under 19, making it especially valuable for families.
GST/HST Credit Payment Dates in 2025
The CRA issues quarterly payments on fixed dates each year. For 2025, the schedule is as follows:
- January 5, 2025
- April 5, 2025
- July 5, 2025
- October 5, 2025
If the 5th falls on a weekend or holiday, payments may arrive on the previous business day.
Direct deposit is the fastest way to get your money. If you have not set it up, the CRA will mail a cheque instead.
Factors That Decide Your GST/HST Credit Amount
Not all Canadians will receive the same amount. Your GST/HST credit is calculated using these key factors:
- Adjusted family net income (lower income = higher credit)
- Number of children under 19 registered for Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and GST/HST credit
- Household structure – single, couple, or shared custody
If your income rises during the year, your payment may be reduced or phased out.
Eligibility for GST/HST Credit in 2025
To qualify for the GST/HST credit in 2025, you must:
- Be 19 years or older (exceptions apply if you are married or a parent under 19)
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Have filed your previous year’s tax return
Even if you have no income, filing your tax return is necessary because the CRA uses it to check eligibility.
Life Changes That Can Affect Your Credit
Your GST/HST credit amount can change if you experience major life events, such as:
- Getting married, separated, or divorced
- Having a child or change in custody
- A significant income increase or decrease
Parents with shared custody will each receive 50% of the credit for their child.
Smart Ways to Use Your GST/HST Credit
Most Canadians use this credit to cover essential living expenses like groceries, bills, transport, and rent. However, financial experts suggest another approach:
Investing your GST/HST credit to grow long-term wealth.
For example, putting the credit into a low-cost ETF like the Vanguard S&P 500 Index (TSX: VSP) could multiply its value over time.
- Includes major companies like Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, Amazon
- Very low management fee (0.09%)
- Strong growth history – $10,000 invested in 2012 could now be worth over $45,000
By saving and investing these small quarterly amounts, Canadians can slowly build a secure financial future.
Why the GST/HST Credit Matters
The GST/HST credit is not just another payment—it is a lifeline for many households struggling with inflation and rising costs.
Key benefits include:
- Helping low- and middle-income families manage daily expenses
- Automatic adjustments based on income and family size
- No separate application required
- Can be used for spending or investing wisely
This credit ensures fairness in the tax system while supporting millions of Canadians.
The CRA’s $680 GST/HST Credit for 2025 is an important support for Canadians facing higher living costs. With automatic eligibility checks, quarterly payments, and amounts that increase with family size, this credit is a simple yet effective way to provide relief. Families and individuals can use it to cover daily needs or invest for future financial growth.
As inflation continues to challenge household budgets, the GST/HST credit remains one of Canada’s most valuable tax-free benefits, offering stability and security for millions of residents.
FAQs
How often will I receive the GST/HST credit in 2025?
You will receive it four times a year—January 5, April 5, July 5, and October 5.
Do I need to apply separately for the GST/HST credit?
No. The CRA automatically decides eligibility when you file your income tax return.
How much can a couple with one child receive in 2025?
A couple ($680) plus one child ($179) will receive $859 annually, or about $214.75 each quarter.