The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit is a crucial benefit for many Canadians, providing tax-free payments to help offset the cost of GST or HST paid on everyday goods and services. In 2025, eligible Canadians can expect their next GST/HST Credit payment in October, making it important to understand who qualifies and how much they may receive.
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What is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST Credit is a non-taxable quarterly payment administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It is designed to provide financial relief to low- and moderate-income Canadians and families, helping them offset taxes paid on purchases of goods and services.
The credit is automatically calculated based on information reported in your income tax return. Canadians who meet the eligibility criteria will receive payments four times a year: in January, April, July, and October.
Who Qualifies for the GST/HST Credit in 2025?
Eligibility for the GST/HST Credit is determined by a combination of age, income, and family status. To qualify, Canadians must:
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- Have filed a 2024 income tax return (and your spouse or common-law partner if applicable).
- Be at least 19 years old by the end of the tax year or have a spouse/common-law partner or children.
The credit amount is adjusted based on household net income, and higher-income households may not qualify or may receive reduced payments.
Special Considerations
- Married or common-law couples: The combined household income determines eligibility.
- Children under 19: Additional amounts may be included in the payment for dependent children.
- Seniors: Canadians aged 65 or older may qualify for additional federal and provincial supplements.
How Much Will Canadians Receive in October 2025?
The GST/HST Credit payment varies depending on income and family situation. For 2025–26, the maximum credit amounts are approximately:
- Single individuals: Up to $519 annually
- Couples: Up to $680 annually
- Additional amounts: $155 per child under 19
The October 2025 payment will represent one quarterly installment of the total annual GST/HST Credit, typically distributed every three months.
Example Payment Calculation
- A single parent with one child under 19 could receive around $173 in October as part of their quarterly credit.
- A senior couple with no children might receive approximately $170 in October, depending on their combined income.
The CRA uses income data from your 2024 tax return to determine the exact payment amounts.
When Is the GST/HST Credit Paid?
The CRA issues GST/HST Credit payments on a quarterly schedule, and for 2025, the next payment is set for October 2025. Payments are typically made via direct deposit, which is faster and safer than mailed cheques. Canadians who have not signed up for direct deposit can do so through their CRA My Account to receive payments more quickly.
How to Ensure You Receive Your Payment
To guarantee receipt of your GST/HST Credit in October 2025:
- File your 2024 tax return on time.
- Ensure the CRA has your current mailing address and banking information.
- Update your personal information if you’ve moved or changed your marital status.
Provincial Supplements
Many provinces and territories provide additional payments along with the federal GST/HST Credit, including:
- Ontario Trillium Benefit
- British Columbia climate action tax credit
- Quebec solidarity tax credit
These supplements may increase the total amount received by eligible households.
Why the GST/HST Credit Matters
For many Canadians, the GST/HST Credit is an essential source of financial support. It helps low- and moderate-income families manage the cost of everyday expenses and ensures a measure of equity in the tax system.
By understanding eligibility requirements and ensuring your tax filings are up to date, you can maximize the benefit you receive. Canadians should prepare for the October 2025 payment and plan accordingly to make the most of this quarterly credit.