The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed the $698 GST/HST Tax Credit for the 2025–2026 benefit year, giving low- and modest-income Canadians much-needed financial support.
This tax-free payment is issued quarterly and helps households offset the rising cost of goods and services. With updated income thresholds and a child bonus included, many families will see higher support amounts throughout the year.
What Is the $698 GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST Tax Credit is a government benefit designed to return a portion of sales tax to people with lower incomes. For the upcoming payment cycle, eligible couples can receive up to $698, while single individuals can get up to $533.
Families with children under 19 will also receive an extra $184 per child, boosting their overall payment amount.
Unlike many other government benefits, this credit is fully tax-free, meaning it does not reduce your refund or increase your taxable income.
Payment Amounts and Schedule for 2025
Below is a clear breakdown of payment amounts and dates for the July 2025–June 2026 benefit year:
| Category | Maximum Payment | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Individual | $533 | No spouse, no dependents |
| Married/Common-Law Couple | $698 | Combined total for both adults |
| Per Child Under 19 | $184 | Added to the household amount |
| Payment Dates | July 5, 2025 October 5, 2025 January 5, 2026 April 5, 2026 | Quarterly payments |
If the scheduled date falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are typically issued on the previous business day. All payments go out by direct deposit or mailed cheque depending on the recipient’s CRA profile.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the GST/HST credit, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Canadian Residency
You must be a Canadian resident for income-tax purposes during the month before and at the start of the payment month.
2. Age Requirement
You must be 19 years or older, or you must have:
- A spouse or common-law partner, or
- A child you live with.
3. Filed Tax Return
Even if you earned no income, filing your 2024 tax return is mandatory. CRA uses your tax return to calculate your credit for the July 2025–June 2026 period.
4. Income Threshold
Your adjusted family net income must fall below the CRA’s annual income limit. Higher-income households receive reduced amounts, while low-income families receive the full credit.
5. Updated Personal Information
Your address, marital status, direct deposit information, and number of eligible children must be accurate to avoid payment delays.
Why This Credit Matters
The $698 GST/HST Credit plays a vital role in reducing financial pressure on Canadian households. With inflation affecting groceries, gas, utilities, and everyday essentials, this quarterly benefit helps families manage rising costs.
Because it is automatic, recipients don’t need to apply separately. Simply filing a tax return unlocks access to the credit.
Households with children also receive additional support through the child bonus, making it especially beneficial for single parents and low-income families.
The $698 GST/HST Tax Credit provides meaningful relief for Canadians facing rising living expenses. By offering up to $698 for couples, $533 for singles, and $184 per child, this tax-free support helps families year-round.
To ensure you receive your payments on time, file your taxes, update your household information, and check your CRA account.
With predictable quarterly deposits, this benefit remains one of the most important financial supports available in Canada.
FAQs
No. Filing your tax return is enough. CRA automatically determines if you qualify.
The first payment for the 2025–2026 period will be issued on July 5, 2025.
Yes. If your family income, marital status, or number of children changes, CRA may recalculate your credit.
Related Posts
