On July 11, 2025, the Canadian government approved a new one-time $250 rebate to help low- and middle-income households cope with rising costs. Delivered through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this rebate is part of a larger strategy to ease the pressure of inflation and energy expenses.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify or when you’ll get the money, here’s everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
Eligibility
Not everyone will get this rebate, but the eligibility rules are pretty straightforward. The CRA is using your 2024 tax return to determine if you qualify. Here’s who’s eligible:
- Single Canadians earning less than $45,000 per year
- Families with a combined income under $65,000
- Anyone who received the July 2025 GST/HST credit
- Seniors getting the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Canadians with disabilities or on fixed incomes
If you haven’t filed your 2024 tax return, you’re not automatically in the system, so make that a top priority. Filing ensures your income and eligibility are properly evaluated.
Timeline
The CRA isn’t wasting time. Direct deposits for the $250 rebate start landing in bank accounts on July 15, 2025. If you haven’t set up direct deposit, you’ll receive a paper cheque, but expect it to take 7 to 10 business days.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Rebate Amount | $250 (one-time payment) |
| Approval Date | July 11, 2025 |
| Deposit Start Date | July 15, 2025 |
| Eligible Population | Low- to middle-income Canadians |
| Administered By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Connected to GST Credit? | Yes |
This is a standalone payment but follows the same method used for the May 2025 top-up, targeting the same groups.
Checking
Want to know if you’re in line to receive this payment? The easiest way is to check your CRA My Account online.
Here’s what to do:
- Log in to your CRA My Account
- Go to the “Benefits and Credits” section
- Look for the $250 rebate entry
- Double-check your direct deposit info
If anything is outdated—especially your banking info—update it right away to avoid delays.
Also, if your financial situation changed drastically in 2024 but isn’t reflected in your CRA file, call them. They can manually review your case.
Purpose
Why $250? Why now? This payment is part of Energy Relief 2025, though it’s not officially branded that way. It’s meant to help Canadians tackle higher summer energy bills—think air conditioning and electricity spikes.
This rebate supports other federal and provincial programs like:
- Ontario’s Hydro One rebate
- Alberta’s Utility Bill Credit
Together, they form a coordinated relief plan aimed at helping Canadians manage soaring utility and living costs.
Action
If you qualify for the GST/HST credit, you’re likely already on the list. But if you’re unsure or haven’t filed your taxes yet, it’s time to act.
- File your 2024 taxes if you haven’t already
- Log into your CRA account to confirm your status
- Make sure your deposit details are current
Even though it’s just one payment, this $250 rebate can provide meaningful short-term relief—especially during peak energy-use season.
The CRA has streamlined the process to ensure the rebate reaches eligible Canadians quickly and directly. For low- and middle-income households, this payment is a timely buffer against rising expenses. Don’t miss out—check your CRA profile, confirm your eligibility, and be ready by July 15.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $250 rebate?
Singles earning under $45,000 and families under $65,000 qualify.
When will the rebate be paid?
CRA direct deposits start on July 15, 2025.
Is the rebate automatic?
Yes, if you receive the GST/HST credit or meet the income limits.
How do I check if I’ll get it?
Log into CRA My Account and check your Benefits section.
What if I haven’t filed my taxes?
File your 2024 return now to become eligible for the rebate.
