In an ongoing effort to address rising living costs, the Government of Canada has announced that more than 11 million Canadians will receive a $250 GST relief payment this July 2025. The benefit is a one-time top-up to the GST/HST credit, designed to support low- and modest-income households facing inflation-driven expenses.
The $250 relief amount will be issued alongside the regular quarterly GST credit, making it a welcome mid-year financial boost for eligible individuals and families, including seniors, students, parents, and newcomers.
What Is the $250 GST Relief Payment? [GST credit top-up explained]
The Canada $250 GST relief payment is a tax-free, one-time top-up to the regular Goods and Services Tax (GST)/Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) credit. It aims to offset the burden of essential living costs, particularly:
- Groceries
- Electricity and heating
- Transportation and fuel
- Household goods
Unlike other benefits, this top-up does not require a separate application. If you’re eligible for the GST credit based on your 2024 tax return, you will automatically receive the additional $250 in July 2025.
When Will the $250 Relief Payment Be Issued?
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has officially confirmed the payment date:
- Friday, July 4, 2025
This is the same day that the July 2025 GST credit is scheduled to be issued. Most recipients will see both payments combined into one deposit, but some may see them listed separately in their CRA account.
You’ll receive your payment by:
- Direct deposit (if enrolled)
- Cheque by mail (if not registered for digital payments)
Who Is Eligible for the $250 GST Payment?
Eligibility is based on your 2024 income tax return, which must be filed by April 30, 2025. You are automatically considered for both the regular GST credit and the $250 top-up if you meet the following criteria:
- You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- You are 18 years or older, OR:
- You have a spouse or common-law partner, OR
- You are a parent living with your child
- Your family net income falls within the allowable threshold
- You have filed your 2024 taxes
Income Thresholds for 2025 GST Credit Eligibility
The CRA uses adjusted family net income to determine eligibility and credit amounts. Approximate thresholds for full or partial credit include:
| Household Type | Net Income Cutoff |
|---|---|
| Single individual (no kids) | Up to $52,000 |
| Couple with 2 children | Up to $64,000 |
| Senior individual | Up to $53,000 |
Income above these limits may reduce or eliminate your eligibility for the GST credit and the top-up.
Who Will Benefit Most from the $250 Top-Up?
The one-time relief is expected to reach a broad range of low- to middle-income Canadians, including:
- Seniors receiving OAS or GIS
- Parents eligible for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Post-secondary students with limited income
- Newcomers and part-time workers
- Individuals living alone with modest earnings
If you’re part of any of these groups and meet the income criteria, you should expect a deposit by July 4.
Regular GST Credit Amounts for 2025–2026
To better understand how the $250 fits in, here’s a breakdown of regular GST credit amounts for the benefit year beginning July 2025:
| Category | Annual GST Credit | Quarterly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Single adult | Up to $533 | Up to $133.25 |
| Married/Common-law couple | Up to $698 | Up to $174.50 |
| Per child (under 19) | Up to $184 | Up to $46 |
The $250 top-up is in addition to the above amounts for July.
How Will You Receive the $250 Payment?
The CRA will use your existing payment method for the July disbursement. Here’s how you can expect to receive it:
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Direct Deposit | Sent automatically to your linked bank account |
| Cheque by Mail | Delivered to your last recorded mailing address |
| CRA My Account | You can verify payment status and history online |
To confirm your payment, log in to your CRA My Account and navigate to:
“Benefits and Credits” → “View My Payments”
You’ll see the $250 GST top-up and your regular July GST credit listed either separately or combined.
What If You Don’t Receive Your Payment?
If your payment does not arrive by July 15, here are the steps to follow:
- Wait 10 business days from July 4
- Check your CRA My Account to verify the payment has been processed
- Ensure your banking and mailing details are current
- Contact CRA Benefits Line at 1-800-387-1193
Also, check your tax filing status—if your 2024 return hasn’t been processed or was filed late, your credit may be delayed.
Why the Federal Government Is Offering This Payment
The $250 GST top-up comes as part of the government’s broader response to ongoing inflationary pressures. Rising costs for basic needs like food, rent, and transportation have disproportionately affected lower-income households.
The relief payment is modeled after similar top-ups issued in 2022 and 2023, when inflation spiked above 6%. The 2025 version is expected to:
- Support over 11 million Canadians
- Help ease short-term financial strain
- Deliver aid without requiring an application or waitlist
- Reinforce Canada’s progressive tax credit system
Key Takeaways
- Payment Date: July 4, 2025
- Amount: One-time $250 top-up, issued with your regular GST credit
- Eligibility: Based on 2024 tax return and family income
- Application: Not required—you are automatically considered
- Delivery: Via direct deposit or mailed cheque
- Support Line: CRA Benefits at 1-800-387-1193