As of May 2025, many Canadian residents are expecting the next installment of the GST/HST credit — a tax-free payment designed to help low and modest-income households manage the burden of consumption taxes. For this quarter, the base individual payment is $179, though the actual amount can vary based on family composition and income level. Understanding how this benefit works, who qualifies, and when it arrives is key to making the most of it.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit is a quarterly financial support program issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Its primary aim is to offset the cost of federal sales taxes for Canadians with lower or moderate incomes. Introduced as part of Canada’s broader tax relief structure, this credit is fully non-taxable, meaning it does not affect your tax return.
Payments are issued every three months—in January, April, July, and October—making May a pivotal time to review your eligibility and check your CRA My Account for updates. In 2025, the maximum amount for a single individual is $496 annually, broken into four parts, with $179 representing a base installment that can be adjusted for dependents or spousal status.
Eligibility Criteria for 2025 GST/HST Credit
To qualify for the GST/HST credit in 2025, recipients must meet the following conditions:
- Be at least 19 years old by the end of the previous month before the payment
- Be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes
- Have a total household income below the set threshold (generally under $52,000 for individuals or $58,000 for families, though this varies)
- File a tax return, even if you have no income to report
Additional eligibility considerations include marital status, number of children under 19, and whether you’re receiving other federal support programs. The CRA automatically assesses eligibility when you file your income tax return, so timely filing is essential.
Deposit Schedule and Payment Dates
In 2025, the GST/HST credit will be paid on the following dates:
| Payment Period | Deposit Date |
|---|---|
| Q1 – January | January 5, 2025 |
| Q2 – April | April 4, 2025 |
| Q3 – July | July 5, 2025 |
| Q4 – October | October 4, 2025 |
If you qualified based on your 2023 tax return and have updated your information with the CRA, you should have already received your April payment. The next installment—July 5, 2025—is the one most households are anticipating. Be sure your banking details and personal information are up to date in your CRA online portal to avoid delays.
How Much You Can Receive in 2025
The standard $179 figure refers to the quarterly amount for eligible individuals without dependents. Here’s a more detailed breakdown for 2025:
- Single adult: Up to $496 annually
- Married or common-law couple: Up to $650 annually
- Each child under 19: Additional $171 annually per child
Amounts are income-tested and gradually reduced as household income exceeds the threshold. If your earnings are slightly above the cutoff, you may still receive a partial credit.
How to Check Your Payment Status
To confirm your eligibility or check your payment status, log into your CRA My Account. Once inside:
- Go to “Benefits and Credits”
- Click on “GST/HST Credit”
- Review the status, amount, and deposit method
If you haven’t received your payment within 10 business days of the scheduled date, you can contact the CRA directly. Direct deposit is the fastest method, while mailed cheques can take longer to arrive.
Conclusion
The GST/HST credit remains a key financial support for millions of Canadians in 2025, particularly during inflationary times. With the next $179 payment due in July, staying informed and proactive—especially by ensuring your 2023 return was filed correctly—is essential to receiving your entitled benefits. Whether you’re an individual, part of a family unit, or supporting children, this credit can make a meaningful difference in your monthly budget.
FAQs
What should I do if I didn’t receive my GST/HST credit?
You should wait 10 business days after the expected deposit date. If it hasn’t arrived by then, contact the CRA at 1-800-387-1193 or log into your CRA My Account to check for errors in your address or banking info.
Can new residents of Canada apply for the GST/HST credit?
Yes. If you’ve recently moved to Canada and are a resident for tax purposes, you can apply by filling out Form RC151 and submitting it to the CRA, provided you meet the income and eligibility requirements.
Do I need to reapply each year for the GST/HST credit?
No, but you do need to file your tax return every year. The CRA uses your most recent tax return to reassess your eligibility and calculate your payment.
Are students eligible for the GST/HST credit?
Yes, students can qualify if they are 19 or older, file a tax return, and meet the income criteria. Many post-secondary students are eligible for partial or full payments.
Is the GST/HST credit considered taxable income?
No, it’s a non-taxable benefit and does not need to be reported as income on your tax return.
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