As food inflation continues to hit Canadians hard in 2025, a rumored $978 grocery rebate from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has sparked widespread interest. With the cost of essentials climbing steadily, many are wondering if the federal government will step in with another round of support.
While no official rebate has been announced, this guide will walk you through what’s fact, what’s fiction, and how to position yourself for any future relief.
Table of Contents
Overview
Let’s clear something up right away: there is no confirmed $978 grocery rebate coming from the CRA as of now. The figure appears to have circulated from speculation and social media chatter. Still, the interest in this potential benefit shows just how much pressure Canadian families are under.
Food prices remain sky-high. Many people are cutting back on meals, skipping items, or turning to food banks. So, while the $978 figure might not be real today, the need for help certainly is.
Grocery Rebate Recap
Before diving into what might happen in 2025, it helps to look back at what actually happened in 2023. That year, the federal government issued a one-time grocery rebate to help low- and modest-income Canadians handle the soaring cost of food.
Here’s what people received in July 2023:
Household Type | Rebate Amount |
---|---|
Single adult (no kids) | Up to $234 |
Senior living alone | Up to $255 |
Couple with two children | Up to $467 |
Family with four children | Up to $628 |
These payments were tied to the GST/HST credit and based on 2021 income. There was no need to apply separately, and payments went directly into recipients’ accounts.
Fact Check
As of June 2025, no government agency—including CRA—has confirmed a grocery rebate of $978. There’s no legislation, policy statement, or budget line item for such a payment. While the buzz might feel real, there’s no official source backing it up.
To avoid falling for false info, always verify claims through:
- Canada.ca
- CRA My Account
- Department of Finance press releases
What We Know
Although the $978 rebate is still just a rumor, the government has officially confirmed a $250 Working Canadians Rebate in 2025.
Detail | Info |
---|---|
Rebate Amount | $250 |
Eligibility | Worked in 2023, income ≤ $150k |
Delivery Date | Spring 2025 |
Payment Method | CRA direct deposit or cheque |
This rebate is designed to help working Canadians who often fall just above low-income thresholds but are still feeling the pinch of inflation.
Eligibility Clues
If the government decides to bring back a grocery rebate in 2025, it will likely follow the same pattern as 2023. That means eligibility would depend on:
- Tax Filing
You need to file your return—even with no income—so the CRA has a record of your status. - Qualifying for the GST/HST Credit
This is typically based on:
- Net family income
- Number of kids
- Marital status
- Income Limits
In 2023, a single adult with income under $49,000 often qualified for full support. For families, the limit scaled up.
Preparing
Even if no new grocery rebate is confirmed today, the best move is to prepare like one is coming. Here’s how:
- File your taxes every year — even with zero income
- Set up direct deposit with CRA for faster payments
- Log in to your CRA My Account and keep your details updated
- Subscribe to official news alerts from Canada.ca
Why Grocery Relief Still Matters
In 2025, Canadians are still battling affordability issues. Stats Canada reports food inflation between 6.5% and 7.2% this year. Families are spending over $1,000 monthly just on groceries.
Who’s being hit the hardest?
- Urban renters struggling with both rent and food prices
- Rural communities dealing with higher delivery and fuel costs
- Low- to mid-income households who don’t qualify for traditional aid
- Seniors living on fixed pensions that haven’t risen with inflation
FAQs
Is the $978 grocery rebate real?
No, it’s a rumor and not officially confirmed by CRA.
What was the 2023 grocery rebate amount?
Between $234 and $628 based on family size and income.
How do I qualify for future rebates?
File taxes, set up CRA direct deposit, and monitor your account.
What is the confirmed 2025 benefit?
A $250 Working Canadians Rebate coming in spring 2025.
Do I need to apply for these rebates?
No, most CRA rebates are automatic if you’re eligible.