In April 2025, the Government of Canada will distribute an additional Goods and Services Tax (GST) payment to provide financial relief to low- and middle-income individuals and families facing rising living expenses.
This one-time, tax-free payment supplements the regular GST/HST credit, aiming to ease the financial burden on essential goods and services.
Key Details of the April 2025 GST Payment
The following table outlines the essential information regarding the upcoming GST payment:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Date | April 4, 2025 |
| Eligibility | Low- and middle-income individuals and families |
| Payment Amount | Up to $519 for single individuals; up to $650 for couples; $171 per child under 19 |
| Application Required | No; eligibility is determined automatically based on 2023 tax returns filed with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Administered By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
Understanding the GST Payment
The GST payment is designed to assist Canadians with the costs associated with the GST and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) they pay on goods and services.
This additional payment is part of the government’s efforts to support households amid inflation and increased living costs.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the GST payment, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes as of the beginning of the month in which the payment is made.
- Age: Applicants must be at least 19 years old before the payment date.
- Income Thresholds: Eligibility is primarily based on income reported in the 2023 tax return. Single individuals earning less than $35,000 annually and couples with combined incomes below higher specified thresholds may qualify.
- Tax Filing: Must have filed the 2023 income tax return by the deadline, typically April 30, 2025. Late filings may result in delayed payments.
Payment Amount Breakdown
The payment amounts vary based on individual circumstances:
- Single Individuals: Up to $519.
- Married or Common-Law Couples: Up to $650 per household.
- Children Under 19: An additional $171 per child.
Example: A couple with two children under 19 could receive a total of $992 ($650 + $171 + $171).
How to Ensure Receipt of the GST Payment
No separate application is necessary for most individuals. To ensure timely receipt:
- File Taxes Promptly: Submit the 2023 income tax return by April 30, 2025.
- Update Personal Information: Ensure marital status, address, and dependent information are current with the CRA.
- Enroll in Direct Deposit: Register for direct deposit through the CRA’s My Account portal to expedite payment.
Payment Distribution Dates
The CRA issues GST payments quarterly. For the period covering April 2025, payments are scheduled as follows:
- April 4, 2025: Initial payment for eligible individuals.
- July 4, 2025: Second payment.
- October 3, 2025: Third payment.
Payments are made via direct deposit or mailed cheque, depending on the recipient’s preference.
What If the Tax Filing Deadline Is Missed?
Failing to file the 2023 tax return by the April 30, 2025 deadline may delay the GST payment. To mitigate this:
- File Taxes ASAP: Submit the tax return as soon as possible.
- Contact CRA: Reach out to the CRA for guidance if experiencing issues or delays.
By staying informed and meeting the necessary requirements, Canadians can effectively benefit from the additional GST payment, easing the financial impact of rising living costs.
FAQs
Is a separate application needed for the GST payment?
No; the CRA determines eligibility based on your 2023 tax return filed by the deadline.
How can I check the status of my GST payment?
Log into your CRA My Account to view payment details and status.
What should I do if I don’t receive my payment on the scheduled date?
Wait 10 business days before contacting the CRA, ensuring your personal and banking information is up to date.