If you’re living in Canada and watching your expenses closely, the GST/HST credit might be a quiet but powerful ally. This tax-free payment, sent out four times a year, helps offset the cost of sales taxes for low- and modest-income individuals and families.
In 2025, it continues to be a reliable financial support tool for millions of Canadians.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the GST/HST credit in 2025—from key payment dates to eligibility rules, how much you might get, and what to do if you miss a payment. No jargon, just clear and simple information.
Table of Contents
Overview
Here’s a quick snapshot of the GST/HST credit details for 2025:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Dates | January 5, April 5, July 5, October 5, 2025 |
| What It Is | A tax-free payment to help with GST/HST costs |
| Eligibility | Canadians 19+, or younger if a parent or spouse |
| Application | Automatic when you file your income tax return |
| Maximum Credit | $519 (single), $680 (couple), $179 per child |
| Based On | 2024 income (via your 2023 tax return) |
| Administered By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
GST/HST Credit
The GST/HST credit is the government’s way of giving some money back to Canadians who may struggle with the cost of sales taxes. Every time you buy something—a meal, clothes, or even school supplies—you pay GST or HST. For people with lower income, those taxes can add up fast.
To help, the CRA issues the GST/HST credit in quarterly payments. It’s completely tax-free, and you don’t need to pay it back or claim it as income. It’s just a little help to make things more manageable throughout the year.
Payments
Mark these dates on your calendar:
- January 5, 2025
- April 5, 2025
- July 5, 2025
- October 5, 2025
If the 5th falls on a weekend or holiday, the CRA sends the money on the business day before. So, you might even get paid early.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the GST/HST credit, you must meet all of the following:
- Be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes
- Be at least 19 years old
- Or, if under 19, be a parent or have a spouse or common-law partner
- File your income tax return—even if you have no income
Your eligibility and how much you receive are based on your family’s adjusted net income from your previous year’s tax return.
How Much Can You Get?
The amount you receive depends on your income and family size. For the July 2024 to June 2025 benefit year (based on your 2023 tax return), here’s what you could expect:
| Family Situation | Annual GST/HST Credit |
|---|---|
| Single person | Up to $519 |
| Married or common-law couple | Up to $680 (one person receives it) |
| Per child under 19 | $179 per child |
Example: A single parent with one child and a $35,000 income could receive around $698 a year—$519 for themselves and $179 for the child—split into quarterly payments of about $174.50.
How to Make Sure
This is the most important step. No separate application is required. When you file your tax return, the CRA automatically checks whether you’re eligible and how much you qualify for. Even if you earned no income, you still need to file.
Keep Your Info Up to Date
Changes in your life can affect your payments:
- You get married or start a common-law relationship
- You separate or divorce
- You have or begin supporting a child
- You move to a new address
Update these details through your CRA My Account or by calling the CRA. It ensures accurate payments and avoids delays.
Set Up Direct Deposit
The fastest way to get your GST/HST credit is through direct deposit. Your money will land in your bank account on the payment date—no waiting for a cheque in the mail. You can set this up online with CRA My Account or through your bank.
Missed a Payment?
If it’s payment day and nothing has shown up, try the following steps:
- Wait 5–10 business days. Banks and mail sometimes take longer.
- Log into your CRA My Account to see payment status.
- Double-check your tax filing status. If you didn’t file taxes, you won’t get the credit.
- Make sure your address and banking info are correct.
- If all else fails, call CRA at 1-800-959-8281 with your SIN ready.
Bonus Tip
Some provinces offer additional benefits alongside the GST/HST credit. For example:
- Ontario Trillium Benefit
- BC Climate Action Tax Credit
- Quebec Solidarity Tax Credit
You don’t need to apply separately. When you file your tax return, CRA checks if you qualify for these programs too and may combine payments.
The GST/HST credit in 2025 isn’t just another government program—it’s practical help delivered straight to your bank account every quarter.
It’s designed to reduce tax pressure on low- and modest-income Canadians and keep things fair. Just file your taxes, keep your info current, and set up direct deposit. It really is that simple.
FAQs
When is the next GST payment in 2025?
January 5, April 5, July 5, and October 5 are the dates.
How do I apply for the GST/HST credit?
Just file your taxes each year. No separate application needed.
Do students or seniors qualify for GST credit?
Yes, if income is low and they file taxes.
Is the GST/HST credit taxable income?
No, it’s completely tax-free and doesn’t affect your taxes.
How do I update my info with CRA?
Use CRA My Account online or call 1-800-959-8281.
