Canadians struggling with high living costs may soon receive much-needed support. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has announced a one-time $1,350 direct payment set to be issued in September 2025. This financial relief, part of the federal government’s 2025 budget, targets low- and modest-income individuals and families who are facing rising costs for housing, food, transportation, and other essentials.
The payment is aimed at helping Canadians deal with the lingering effects of inflation, high interest rates, and financial instability—especially those living paycheque to paycheque.
What Is the CRA $1,350 One-Time Payment?
The CRA $1,350 benefit is a single federal payment intended to help eligible Canadians manage essential expenses during a period of ongoing economic pressure. Unlike recurring monthly benefits, this one-time credit is meant to provide immediate relief for:
- Grocery and food expenses
- Housing and rent costs
- Utility bills and heating expenses
- Transportation and fuel
This benefit follows the structure of past federal aid programs, such as the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) and GST/HST credits, but is focused on low- to middle-income Canadians based on their most recent tax filings.
Who Qualifies for the $1,350 CRA Payment? [Eligibility Criteria]
Eligibility is based on your 2024 income tax return, and whether you’ve received certain benefits in that year. You may be eligible if:
- You received the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) or GST/HST Credit in 2024
- You are a single adult with a net income under $33,000
- You are a family or couple with a combined income under $55,000
- You are a senior on a fixed income, someone receiving GIS, social assistance, or living with a disability
To be eligible, you must:
- Have filed your 2024 taxes on time
- Ensure your CRA My Account has your correct banking and personal details
- Meet the income thresholds outlined above
When Will the CRA Send the $1,350 Payment? [Payment Date and Process]
The CRA has confirmed that the $1,350 payments will be distributed starting in early September 2025. Payment methods include:
- Direct Deposit: For Canadians enrolled in CRA direct deposit, funds will be transferred automatically to your bank account
- Mailed Cheque: For those not enrolled, a paper cheque will be sent to the address listed in your most recent tax return
Important: To avoid delays, log into your CRA My Account today and confirm that your mailing address and banking info are up to date.
How to Make Sure You Receive the Payment
To ensure you receive the $1,350 payment without delay, follow these steps:
File your 2024 tax return before the June 2025 deadline
Register for CRA direct deposit via CRA My Account
Update your banking and contact details online
Do not respond to scam emails or calls asking for personal or banking information—there is no application form required
This payment is automatic for all eligible Canadians—no separate registration is needed.
Why Is the Government Issuing This Payment Now? [Economic Context]
Canada’s economic challenges are far from over. While inflation has begun to ease, housing costs, grocery bills, and energy prices remain high. The government designed this one-time $1,350 payment to:
- Ease financial pressure on low-income individuals and families
- Help cover short-term essential costs
- Avoid adding to inflation by targeting those most in need rather than offering universal benefits
This approach is intended to provide targeted support while maintaining overall fiscal balance.
How This Payment Can Help Canadians
For those living on tight budgets, this one-time benefit can offer timely relief to manage urgent or seasonal expenses, such as:
- Back-to-school costs for children
- Outstanding utility bills or emergency expenses
- Winter heating and fuel needs
- Debt repayment or household maintenance
It’s a modest but crucial payment for households already facing economic strain.
Common Questions and CRA Tips
Q1: How do I know if I’ll receive the $1,350 CRA payment?
If you received the CWB or GST/HST credit in 2024 and your income falls within the required limits, you’ll receive the payment automatically.
Q2: Is there an application form?
No. The CRA uses information from your 2024 tax return. If you’re eligible, the payment will be issued without any application.
Q3: When should I expect the money?
Payments will begin in early September 2025, via direct deposit or cheque.
Q4: What if I haven’t updated my CRA information?
Log into your CRA My Account now and update your banking and contact information to avoid missing the payment.
Q5: Is the $1,350 payment taxable?
No. This is a non-taxable benefit, meaning it won’t count as income or affect your future tax filings.
