Canada GST Increase in 2025: The Canada GST increase in 2025 and related GST/HST Credit updates are top of mind for many Canadians. As inflation and living costs rise, tax credits like the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) Credit become essential tools in providing financial relief to low- and modest-income households. This article is your complete guide to what’s happening with the GST in 2025. Whether you’re a student, senior, parent, or newcomer, this piece will help you understand how much you can expect, when you’ll get paid, and what to do to ensure you qualify.
Canada GST Increase in 2025
Understanding the Canada GST increase in 2025 and the updated GST/HST Credit system is essential for Canadians navigating today’s financial landscape. These tax-free payments are designed to offer tangible relief against rising living costs and are automatically calculated when you file your tax return. Stay informed, file on time, and ensure your information with the CRA is accurate to receive every dollar you’re entitled to.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| GST/HST Credit Type | Tax-free quarterly payment for low- and modest-income individuals and families |
| Maximum Annual Amounts | $519 for single individuals; $680 for married/common-law couples; $179 per child under 19 |
| Payment Dates (2025) | January 3, April 4, July 4, October 3 |
| Eligibility Criteria | Canadian resident, at least 19 years old, filed 2023 tax return |
| Income Cut-off (approx.) | $54,704 for singles; $72,244 for couples with children |
| Application Requirement | No application needed; eligibility assessed upon tax filing |
| CRA Official Website | Visit the CRA GST/HST Credit page |
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST Credit is a tax-free quarterly payment issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It’s designed to help Canadians with low to moderate income offset the sales taxes they pay throughout the year on goods and services.
This credit is especially helpful for families, students, seniors, and others on a fixed or limited income. The benefit is recalculated annually based on your previous year’s income tax return.
Who Qualifies for the GST/HST Credit?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes.
- Be 19 years or older (or meet specific conditions if younger, such as being a parent or having a spouse).
- Have filed a 2023 tax return (even if you had no income).
If you’re a newcomer to Canada, you must complete Form RC151 and submit additional documents to apply manually for the first time.
GST/HST Credit Payment Dates for 2025
The GST/HST Credit is paid quarterly. For the current benefit year (July 2024 to June 2025), the CRA has confirmed the following payment dates in 2025:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
If your total annual credit is less than $200, the CRA may issue it as one lump-sum payment in July.
How Much Will You Receive in 2025?
The amount of your GST/HST Credit is based on your family structure and adjusted family net income from 2023. Here’s the maximum you can expect for the current benefit year (July 2024 – June 2025):
- $519 for single individuals
- $680 for married/common-law couples
- $179 for each child under 19
The actual amount you receive may be lower depending on your income. The credit is reduced once your income exceeds certain thresholds:
- For singles: approximately $54,704
- For families: approximately $72,244
These thresholds are subject to change each year based on inflation.
New for 2025: One-Time GST Relief Payment
In March 2025, the federal government issued a one-time GST Relief Payment of $250. This special payment was intended to help individuals and families cope with rising inflation and cost-of-living pressures.
Eligibility criteria included:
- Income under $150,000
- A filed 2024 tax return (early filing recommended)
- Employment income or government support
This payment was issued automatically via direct deposit or cheque.
How to Check Your Canada GST Increase Payment Status?
You can monitor your GST/HST Credit payments through:
- CRA My Account – The most reliable method.
- CRA Mobile App – Check payment dates, benefit summaries, and update banking information.
- Phone Support – Call CRA at 1-800-387-1193 for GST/HST Credit questions.
What to Do If You Miss a Payment?
If you haven’t received a scheduled GST/HST Credit payment:
- Wait at least 10 business days before contacting the CRA.
- Confirm your banking info or mailing address is current.
- Check for notices in your CRA account that may explain the delay.
Payments may be delayed if your return is under review or your information is outdated.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for the GST/HST Credit without income?
Yes. Even if you had no income, you should file a tax return to be assessed for the credit.
2. Is the GST/HST Credit taxable?
No. The GST/HST Credit is not taxable and does not affect other government benefits.
3. I just moved to Canada. Do I qualify?
You may qualify after submitting Form RC151 and supporting documents.
4. Can I receive the GST/HST Credit if I’m a student?
Yes, if you meet the age and residency criteria and file a return, you may qualify.
5. How do I update my marital status for the credit?
You must inform the CRA as soon as your status changes. This can be done through My Account or by calling CRA.
Tips to Maximize Your Benefits
- Always file your tax return, even with zero income.
- Update your information with the CRA after life events (e.g., marriage, new child).
- Use the CRA benefit calculator to estimate your payments.
- Set up direct deposit for faster, more secure payments.
