As inflation continues to affect everyday living, Canada’s federal government is once again offering financial relief through the GST/HST credit, a tax-free quarterly benefit designed to ease the burden of sales tax on low- and modest-income individuals and families.
With the next payment of $179 set for July 5, 2025, thousands of Canadians are asking: Am I eligible? When will it arrive? How much will I get? This comprehensive guide answers all of those questions and more.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit is a federally funded quarterly payment aimed at helping eligible Canadians offset the cost of paying GST or HST on basic goods and services.
This credit is fully tax-free and delivered automatically to those who qualify, based on their annual income tax return. You don’t need to apply separately—filing your taxes is the only requirement to be considered.
When Is the Next Payment Scheduled?
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that the next quarterly GST/HST credit payment will be issued on Saturday, July 5, 2025.
Whether you’ve chosen direct deposit or cheque delivery, funds will be released on this date. If the payment doesn’t show up in your account or mailbox, a 10-business-day window applies before contacting the CRA.
How to Qualify for the GST/HST Credit in July 2025
To receive the GST/HST credit this July, you must meet all of the following conditions:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Be at least 19 years old on or before July 1, 2025
- File your 2024 income tax return
- Have a family net income within the CRA’s income thresholds
Important Note: Your marital status and number of children under age 19 will influence both your eligibility and how much you receive.
How Much You Could Receive: Updated 2025 Amounts
The CRA adjusts payment amounts annually to account for inflation. Below is a breakdown of the estimated 2025 GST/HST credit payments:
Household Type | Annual Amount | Quarterly Payment |
---|---|---|
Single adult | $179 | $44.75 |
Married/common-law couple | $379 | $94.75 |
One child (extra) | +$179 | +$44.75 |
Each additional child | +$179 | +$44.75 |
These are baseline estimates. Your actual credit will be income-tested and may vary slightly depending on family net income and other eligibility factors.
Where the Information Comes From
The CRA uses your 2024 income tax return to determine whether you’re eligible and how much you’ll receive. If your return hasn’t been filed or processed by the time payments are issued, your credit may be delayed or denied.
Missed Payment? Here’s What to Do
If you were expecting a payment on July 5 but haven’t received it by mid-July, follow these steps:
- Log into your CRA My Account
Check your payment status, eligibility, and personal information like bank details or mailing address. - Confirm Your Tax Return Was Processed
Your 2024 return must be filed and assessed to unlock payment. - Wait 10 Business Days
If after this period your deposit or cheque still hasn’t arrived, contact CRA directly at 1-800-387-1193. - Beware of Scams
The CRA will never text or email asking for personal or financial details. If you receive such a message, it’s a scam.
GST/HST Credit for Families With Children
If you’re a parent or guardian with children under 19, you’ll receive an additional $179 per child annually through this credit. These payments are stacked on top of base amounts and issued within the same quarterly payment.
Example: A married couple with two children could receive:
- $379 (couple)
- +$179 (first child)
- +$179 (second child)
Total Annual Credit: $737 or $184.25/quarter
Why Your Tax Filing Matters
Filing taxes is essential even if you have no income. The GST/HST credit is only issued if you have a valid tax return on file.
Also, any changes in your marital status, dependents, or income level may affect your eligibility and amount.
Other Benefits That Work Alongside GST/HST
The GST/HST credit is one of several federal supports for Canadians with lower incomes. Others include:
- Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR)
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
- Old Age Security (OAS) and GIS (for seniors)
You may qualify for multiple benefits simultaneously, depending on your income level, family composition, and province of residence.
Stay Eligible for Future Payments
The GST/HST credit is issued four times a year — in July, October, January, and April. To ensure continuous eligibility:
- File your taxes every year
- Update CRA with any address or marital status changes
- Ensure direct deposit info is current
- Monitor your CRA My Account regularly
Newcomers to Canada: You May Be Eligible Too
If you’re new to Canada and became a resident before 2025, you can also receive the GST/HST credit. You’ll need to:
- File a tax return
- Provide a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Show proof of residency
- Declare worldwide income
Once approved, quarterly payments will begin based on your family and income profile.
Why the GST/HST Credit Matters
For many families and individuals living on modest incomes, this quarterly financial boost helps manage essential costs like groceries, fuel, personal care, and rent. While $179 may not seem like a large sum, when combined with other government benefits, it can make a noticeable difference.
In 2025, as prices for everyday essentials remain high, the GST/HST credit continues to offer crucial tax-free relief to those who need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When is the next GST/HST credit payment?
Saturday, July 5, 2025.
Q2. How much will I receive as a single adult?
An estimated $179 annually, or $44.75 quarterly.
Q3. Do I need to apply for the GST credit?
No application is needed. Just file your 2024 tax return.
Q4. What if I have children?
You’ll receive an extra $179 per eligible child annually.
Q5. What if I didn’t receive my payment?
Check CRA My Account, confirm tax filing, and call CRA after 10 business days if needed.