As of May 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has issued an additional $179 GST/HST credit to eligible Canadians as part of its ongoing efforts to support low- and moderate-income individuals and families. This extra one-time payment is aimed at addressing persistent inflation and rising living costs. Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies, how it works, and what you need to know.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment designed to help Canadians offset the cost of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). It is based on net income and is automatically issued to those who qualify when they file their tax return.
In April 2025, the government added a one-time $179 payment on top of the regular GST/HST credit to ease financial pressure for many households. This supplement does not affect future GST/HST payments or other benefit entitlements.
Who Is Eligible for the $179 Credit in April 2025?
Eligibility for the $179 GST/HST boost is based on income reported in the 2023 tax return. Here’s who qualifies:
- Individuals with an annual net income below approximately $49,200.
- Couples with a combined net income under $58,500 (varies slightly depending on number of children).
- Recipients of the regular GST/HST credit.
- Residents of Canada for income tax purposes in 2023.
You must have filed your 2023 income tax return to be considered. Even if you had no income, filing ensures you are assessed for all benefits.
How Much Do You Get in Total?
The amount you receive depends on your marital status and number of children. The extra $179 is a flat-rate top-up added to your regular GST/HST credit for the April 2025 cycle.
Here is a quick breakdown:
| Household Type | Regular GST/HST Credit (2024-25 Year) | April 2025 Boost | Total Payment in April 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single (no children) | Up to $519 | $179 | Up to $698 |
| Married/Common-law | Up to $680 | $179 | Up to $859 |
| With 1 child | Up to $925 | $179 | Up to $1,104 |
| With 2 children | Up to $1,131 | $179 | Up to $1,310 |
When Was the Payment Sent?
The one-time $179 GST/HST credit was deposited or mailed out starting April 5, 2025. Most eligible Canadians should have received it by mid-April. If you haven’t received your payment and believe you qualify, check your CRA My Account or contact the CRA.
Why This Extra Payment Matters in 2025
With inflation still impacting essential expenses like groceries, housing, and transportation, this extra GST/HST credit offers immediate relief. While it doesn’t solve long-term affordability challenges, it’s a timely buffer for households navigating tight budgets.
Moreover, it highlights the importance of filing taxes—even if your income is minimal or non-existent. Many benefits, including the GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit (CCB), and Climate Action Incentive Payment, rely on tax filing to determine eligibility.
How to Ensure You Receive Future Payments
To continue receiving GST/HST credits and other benefits:
- File your taxes on time every year.
- Keep your personal and banking information up to date with the CRA.
- Use direct deposit for faster access to payments.
Even newcomers or those with limited income should file a return to access available benefits.
Conclusion
The $179 GST/HST credit top-up in April 2025 was a strategic response to the ongoing cost-of-living pressures facing many Canadians. While temporary, it underscores how government programs can offer targeted support when people need it most. If you haven’t received yours and think you’re eligible, log in to your CRA My Account and double-check your details. And looking forward, staying on top of your tax obligations is the surest way to continue accessing these crucial benefits.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the $179 GST/HST credit in April 2025?
The extra $179 was provided to help low- and moderate-income Canadians manage ongoing inflation and living expenses. It’s a one-time top-up to the regular GST/HST credit.
How do I know if I qualify?
You qualify if your 2023 income falls below certain thresholds and you’re eligible for the regular GST/HST credit. The CRA automatically assesses this when you file your tax return.
Do I need to apply for this payment?
No application is needed. If you filed your 2023 taxes and qualified for the regular GST/HST credit, the $179 top-up was issued automatically in April 2025.
I haven’t received my $179—what should I do?
Log in to your CRA My Account to check your payment status. If it still hasn’t arrived, contact the CRA directly.
Will this affect my future GST/HST payments?
No, this is a one-time payment and doesn’t reduce or impact your future quarterly GST/HST credits.
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