The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed the continuation of the GST/HST credit program in 2025, providing tax-free financial relief to low- and modest-income individuals and families.
The benefit helps offset the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) paid on essential goods and services. One key component of this program is the $179 per child credit, along with additional support based on marital status and income.
If you’re wondering how much you can receive, who qualifies, and when you’ll be paid, this guide outlines all the important details.
GST/HST Credit 2025 – Key Details at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Credit Type | Tax-free GST/HST credit |
| Maximum for Single Individuals | $519 annually |
| Maximum for Couples | $680 annually |
| Per Child Amount | $179 per child under 19 years old |
| Payment Frequency | Quarterly |
| Payment Dates for 2025 | Jan 3, Apr 4, Jul 4, Oct 3 |
| Eligibility Basis | 2023 income tax return (for 2025 payments) |
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a non-taxable quarterly benefit offered by the CRA to help eligible Canadians reduce the burden of consumption taxes.
The credit amount is based on the previous year’s income, family size, and marital status. For the 2025 payment cycle (July 2024 – June 2025), the CRA will assess 2023 tax returns.
Eligibility Criteria for the $179 GST/HST Credit
To qualify for the GST/HST credit in 2025, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes
- Be at least 19 years old
(or have a spouse/common-law partner or be a parent living with your child) - Have filed a 2023 income tax return
- Fall within the low- or modest-income threshold defined by the CRA
Even individuals with no income are encouraged to file their taxes to trigger automatic eligibility.
GST/HST Credit Payment Dates for 2025
CRA issues the GST/HST credit quarterly, and the 2025 payment dates are:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
If the total annual benefit is less than $50, CRA may issue the full amount in a lump-sum payment on the first scheduled date.
How Much Can You Receive?
The maximum annual GST/HST credit amounts for the 2025 benefit year (based on 2023 income) are:
| Family Situation | Maximum Annual Credit |
|---|---|
| Single Individual | $519 |
| Married/Common-Law Couple | $680 |
| Per Child Under 19 | $179 |
The benefit phases out gradually as family net income increases beyond CRA’s defined thresholds.
Impact on Canadian Households
This benefit can make a significant difference for eligible households, helping with costs like:
- Groceries
- Childcare
- Transportation
- Utilities
By reducing the tax burden, the credit supports financial stability and day-to-day expenses for families and individuals alike.
How to Receive the GST/HST Credit
Here’s how you can ensure you receive the payment:
- File your tax return for 2023, even with zero income
- Update your information with CRA (address, marital status, number of children)
- Enroll in direct deposit via your CRA My Account for faster payments
No separate application is required—the CRA calculates eligibility based on your tax return.
The $179 GST/HST Credit for 2025 is a vital tax-free benefit for many Canadian families and individuals. With rising living costs, these quarterly payments can help ease financial pressure.
Make sure you file your 2023 taxes, update your CRA details, and sign up for direct deposit to receive your payments without delay. Staying informed ensures you don’t miss out on money you may be entitled to.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the GST/HST credit?
No, you’re automatically considered when you file your income tax return.
What if I don’t file a tax return?
You won’t receive the credit. Filing is mandatory to be assessed for eligibility.
Is the $179 child credit per quarter or per year?
The $179 credit is annual for each child under 19, distributed quarterly as part of the total benefit.