The Goods and Services Tax (GST) credit is a tax-free benefit provided by the Canadian government to help individuals and families with low or modest incomes. In 2025, eligible Canadians can expect extra GST payments of $519, $650, and $171, depending on their income, marital status, and the number of children they have. Understanding who qualifies for these payments and when to expect them is important for financial planning. This guide will explain the eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and expected payment dates for these extra GST credits in 2025.
What is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a non-taxable quarterly payment designed to help Canadians offset the cost of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on everyday purchases. It is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and is automatically calculated based on your annual tax return.
The GST credit is paid out every three months—in January, April, July, and October. The extra GST payments in 2025 will be given to those who meet the eligibility criteria.
Who Qualifies for Extra GST Payments in 2025?
To receive the GST/HST credit in 2025, you must meet certain conditions:
- Residency: You must be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes in the month before and at the start of the month in which CRA issues the payment.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 19 years old before the payment month. If you are younger, you may still qualify if you:
- Have (or had) a spouse or common-law partner
- Are (or were) a parent who lives with their child
- Income Level: Your net income must be within the eligibility limit set by CRA for the GST credit.
If you meet these requirements and have filed your 2024 tax return, you will be automatically considered for the extra GST payments in 2025.
Payment Amounts in 2025
The extra GST payments are based on family status and income. The estimated amounts for 2025 are:
- Single individuals: Up to $519
- Couples (Married or Common-Law): Up to $650
- Each Child Under 19: Additional $171 per child
The final payment amount may vary depending on individual income levels and family size.
When Will the Extra GST Payments Be Sent?
The CRA has scheduled quarterly payments for the GST credit, including the extra GST amounts in 2025. Payments are expected on the following dates:
- January 5, 2025
- April 5, 2025
- July 5, 2025
- October 5, 2025
If you qualify, the extra payment will be included in these scheduled deposits. Those who receive their GST payments by direct deposit will see the funds automatically added to their bank accounts.
How to Apply for the Extra GST Credit
You do not need to apply separately for the extra GST payments. If you file your 2024 tax return on time, the CRA will automatically determine your eligibility and calculate your payment amount.
However, to avoid any delays, make sure:
- Your personal information (address and banking details) is up to date with the CRA.
- You file your taxes before the deadline to ensure you receive your payments on time.
- You check the CRA My Account portal to confirm your GST credit status.
Common Reasons for Delayed Payments
If you have not received your extra GST payment on the expected date, some possible reasons include:
- Late Tax Filing: If you did not file your 2024 tax return on time, the CRA may not have processed your eligibility.
- Banking Issues: If your direct deposit details are incorrect or outdated, your payment may be delayed.
- Change in Income Status: If your income increased significantly in 2024, you may no longer qualify for the GST credit.
If you suspect an issue with your payment, you can check your status through the CRA My Account or contact the CRA directly.
Benefits of the Extra GST Payments
The extra GST payments in 2025 are designed to provide financial relief to Canadians, especially those who need assistance with rising living costs. The key benefits include:
- Financial support for low-income households to help manage essential expenses.
- Automatic eligibility for those who file their taxes—no need to apply separately.
- Consistent quarterly payments to assist with budgeting and financial planning.
Conclusion
The extra GST payments of $519, $650, and $171 in 2025 are an important financial benefit for eligible Canadians. These payments will be issued quarterly by the CRA, with the first payment arriving in January 2025. If you meet the residency, age, and income requirements, and file your 2024 tax return on time, you will automatically receive these payments. To ensure smooth processing, keep your personal and banking details updated with the CRA. These extra funds can help ease financial burdens and provide much-needed support to households across Canada.