Feeling squeezed by rising prices? You’re not alone—and help is on the way. The Canadian government has officially approved a significant increase to the GST/HST Credit, and depending on your province, you could receive up to $566 extra per quarter starting in June 2025. For many low- and modest-income Canadians, this boost means real, practical relief for everyday expenses like groceries, housing, and energy.
Let’s walk through exactly how this new support works, who qualifies, and what you can do to make sure you get your share.
Overview
Here’s a snapshot of what’s changing in 2025:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Extra Credit | Up to $566.75 per quarter (varies by province) |
| Effective Date | Beginning with June 2025 GST/HST Credit payment |
| Who’s Eligible | Low- and modest-income Canadians who file their taxes |
| Top-Up Types | Climate credits, carbon rebates, provincial supplements |
| How to Apply | No application needed—file your taxes |
| Official Source | Canada.ca – GST/HST Credit information |
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST Credit is a federal, tax-free payment issued four times per year to help offset the cost of sales tax for lower-income households. It’s designed to return some of the GST or HST you pay on everyday purchases, from groceries to household supplies.
Who’s Eligible?
To qualify, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Be at least 19 years old, or have a spouse/partner or dependent child
- File a tax return—even with zero income
The amount you receive depends on:
- Your net family income
- Your marital status
- The number of dependent children under 19
Good news? There’s no need to apply. As long as you file your taxes, the CRA will determine your eligibility and issue payments automatically.
What’s New for 2025?
In response to inflation and affordability issues, several provinces are adding their own top-ups to the federal GST/HST Credit. These local enhancements are meant to reflect higher regional living costs and give households a stronger financial cushion.
Provincial Top-Ups Breakdown
Here are the provinces offering the highest GST/HST Credit enhancements in 2025:
| Province/Territory | Quarterly Top-Up (Max) | Program Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Newfoundland & Labrador | $566.75 | Includes Income Supplement and Seniors’ Benefit |
| Northwest Territories | $502 | Via Cost of Living Offset |
| British Columbia | $252 | Final year of BC Climate Action Tax Credit |
| Saskatchewan | $277.50 | Delivered through the Low-Income Tax Credit |
| Nova Scotia | $93.75 | Affordable Living Tax Credit |
| Prince Edward Island | $55 | PEI Sales Tax Credit |
| New Brunswick | $200 | Harmonized Sales Tax Credit |
| Yukon | $372 | Yukon Carbon Price Rebate for rural households |
| Nunavut | $100 | Nunavut Carbon Credit |
These top-ups are combined with your federal GST/HST Credit for a bigger overall payment.
Base Amounts (2024–2025)
The base amounts for the GST/HST Credit are calculated using your 2023 tax return:
| Family Type | Annual GST/HST Credit |
|---|---|
| Single Individual | $519 |
| Married/Common-Law Couple | $680 |
| Each Dependent Child | $179 |
Example:
A couple with two children gets:
- $680 + (2 × $179) = $1,038/year → $259.50 per quarter
- Add Newfoundland’s $566.75 → Total = $826.25 per quarter or $3,305/year
That’s a big deal for families balancing food, housing, and utility costs.
How to Make Sure You Receive It
You must file your tax return, even if you didn’t earn income. The CRA uses it to calculate your benefit.
Steps to Claim Your Boost
- File your 2023 tax return before June 30, 2024
- Update CRA with your current marital status, address, and dependent info
- Sign up for direct deposit through CRA My Account for faster payments
- Watch for the next payment date: June 4, 2025
No need to submit a special application. Everything is handled automatically once your return is processed.
Why This Matters
This enhanced credit is more than just a refund—it’s a quarterly income boost at a time when food, energy, and rent costs are at historic highs. For many, it’s the difference between barely getting by and breathing a little easier.
With automatic eligibility, no paperwork, and payments tied to your income tax return, the only real task is staying on top of your tax filings. The rest takes care of itself.
FAQs
How much is the GST/HST Credit in 2025?
Up to $566.75 per quarter, depending on your province and income.
Do I need to apply for the credit?
No. Just file your taxes and CRA applies it automatically.
When is the next GST/HST payment?
The next payment is scheduled for June 4, 2025.
Can I get the credit if I have no income?
Yes, if you file taxes and meet residency and age rules.
Which province gives the biggest top-up?
Newfoundland and Labrador offers up to $566.75 per quarter.
