In mid-2025, the Government of Canada announced a 2.7% increase in the GST/HST credit, giving citizens significant financial relief. This credit is specifically given to those with low or middle incomes to relieve them of taxes on essential goods and services. Like every year, this time too this change will be effective from July.
Although this time the increase is slightly less than the 4.7% increase in 2024, it will still prove to be an important aid for low-income families in this era of inflation. In the context of the way the prices of essential services like food items, rent, and transportation are rising, this credit will help give some balance to their budget.
What is GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST Credit is a tax-free financial aid operated by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), which is provided to eligible citizens every quarter. Its purpose is to refund them a part of the tax they have paid in the form of GST/HST on purchases or services.
This benefit is automatically determined by the CRA, with no separate application required (unless you are new to Canada). The amount you will receive in 2025 is determined based on your 2024 income, and this amount is based directly on information from your CRA account.
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What is changing in 2025?
As of the payment cycle starting in July 2025, eligible citizens will receive 2.7% more money. While this may not seem like a huge increase, it does indicate that the government is still making efforts to ease the financial stress of lower- and middle-class families.
Recipient Type | 2024 Amount (CAD) | 2025 Amount (CAD) | Change |
---|---|---|---|
Single Individual | $340 | $349 | +$9 |
Per Eligible Child | $179 | $184 | +$5 |
Couple (Combined) | $680 | $698 | +$18 |
Single Supplement | $179 | $184 | +$5 |
For example, a family with two children can now receive up to $1,066 annually, which works out to about $266.50 per quarter. On the other hand, single parents can get up to $533 per year for one child, or $133.25 per quarter.
Who is eligible for this benefit?
The CRA determines eligibility for the GST/HST credit based on some general conditions:
- The individual must be a resident of Canada (in terms of income tax).
- Must be at least 19 years old at the beginning of the month of benefit.
- If someone is under 19, they may be eligible if they have a spouse or are raising a child.
- Filing an income tax return is mandatory.
- New citizens must complete an RC151 form in their first year.
The credit is phased out, meaning those with higher incomes will receive a smaller amount or nothing at all. This ensures that the help goes to the right people.
What will the 2025 income limits be?
The CRA determines how much you are eligible for based on your Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI). This year, the income thresholds have been increased by 2.7%:
Income Category | 2024 Threshold (CAD) | 2025 Threshold (CAD) | Change |
---|---|---|---|
Phase-in for Single Supplement | $11,039 | $11,337 | +$298 |
Phase-out Start for Families | $44,324 | $45,521 | +$1,197 |
This means that if your annual income is above these limits, your payment will gradually decrease and may eventually stop.
When and how do you receive payments?
GST/HST credits are paid four times a year—on the 5th of July, October, January, and April. If that day falls on a holiday or weekend, payments are made on the preceding working day.
To receive payments fast and securely:
- File your 2024 income taxes on time.
- Sign up for CRA direct deposit.
- Keep your personal and family information updated.
- Check your payment status on the CRA’s “My Account.”
- Fill out new citizen Form RC151.
If you don’t receive a payment on time, the CRA recommends you wait 10 business days, then contact 1-800-387-1193.
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Why is this 2025 change important?
This year’s 2.7% increase may seem small, but it helps maintain the purchasing power of a large number of Canadians. With inflation, food prices, transportation, and living costs on the rise, this support is vital for those living on limited incomes.
A great feature of the GST/HST credit is its simplicity—no application required (in most cases), tax-free payments, and direct transfers. This is why the program serves as a strong pillar in Canada’s social security policy.
Conclusion
This 2.7% increase in the GST/HST credit in 2025 comes at a time when millions of Canadians are struggling with rising prices. This credit not only reduces the tax burden, but it also acts as a social safety net, especially for those who are making ends meet with limited resources.
If you are eligible and have filed your tax returns, you will receive this payment automatically. This will not only provide relief to your household budget, but it once again proves that the government is mindful of the needs of the citizens.
FAQs
Q. What is the GST/HST credit?
A. The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment that helps low- and modest-income Canadians offset sales taxes.
Q. How much is the 2025 increase?
A. The GST/HST credit is increasing by 2.7% starting July 2025.
Q. Who is eligible for the credit?
A. Canadian residents aged 19+ who filed a tax return and meet income requirements may qualify.
Q. When will the payments be issued?
A. Payments are issued quarterly—on July 5, October 5, January 5, and April 5.
Q. Do I need to apply separately?
A. No. If you file your tax return, the CRA automatically assesses your eligibility.