As of April 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will be issuing the latest quarterly GST/HST credit payments. These payments, designed to help Canadians with modest incomes offset sales taxes, are crucial in an economy where the cost of living continues to rise. If you’re looking to find out whether you qualify, how much you can receive, and how to ensure you never miss a payment, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment issued by the CRA to help low- and moderate-income Canadians offset some of the GST or HST they pay. This benefit isn’t just a refund—it’s a consistent financial support mechanism that arrives four times a year, offering relief for essential costs like food, utilities, or transportation.
Unlike some government programs, you don’t apply for the GST/HST credit separately. Instead, your eligibility is determined when you file your annual tax return.
April 2025 Payment Overview
Here’s a snapshot of the key details for the April 2025 GST/HST credit:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Date | April 4, 2025 |
| Single Individual Max | $519 annually ($129.75 quarterly) |
| Married/Common-law Max | $680 annually ($170 quarterly) |
| Per Child Under 19 | $179 annually per child ($44.75 quarterly) |
| Eligibility | Canadian residents 19+, low/modest income, filed 2023 tax return |
| Application Required? | No (unless you’re a newcomer; then file RC66/RC151) |
| CRA Resource | Canada.ca – GST/HST Credit |
How Much Can You Expect in April 2025?
For the April 2025 installment, the CRA will calculate your payment based on your 2023 tax return. Payment amounts depend on your marital status and number of children.
Examples:
- A single adult may receive up to $129.75.
- A couple with two children could get $259.50 ($170 for the couple + $89.50 for the children).
- A newcomer parent with one child might receive $174.50 this quarter.
The more dependents you have and the lower your household income, the higher your potential credit.
Who Qualifies for the GST/HST Credit?
To qualify for the April 2025 payment, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Be 19 years or older, or have (or had) a spouse/common-law partner, or be a parent living with your child
- File your 2023 tax return
Even if your income was zero, filing your taxes is mandatory to receive the credit.
Your eligibility is based on your Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI), which combines your income with that of your spouse or partner if applicable.
Income Thresholds:
- AFNI under $39,826: Eligible for full credit
- AFNI between $39,826 and $52,000: May receive partial credit
- AFNI over $52,000: Likely not eligible
How to Receive Your GST/HST Credit
Step 1: File Your Taxes
The CRA uses your tax return to assess eligibility. File even if you have no income.
Step 2: Direct Deposit
To avoid delays, sign up for direct deposit through your financial institution, CRA My Account, or a paper form.
Step 3: Keep Information Current
Update any changes to:
- Marital status
- Number of dependents
- Banking details
- Address
Failure to update could delay payments or cause over/underpayments.
Real-Life Examples
Olivia (Single, No Kids)
- Income: $22,000
- Quarterly Credit: $129.75
- Usage: Covers groceries and public transit
Alex & Sam (Couple, Two Kids)
- Combined Income: $38,000
- Quarterly Credit: $259.50
- Usage: Helps with school supplies and kids’ clothing
Priya (Newcomer, One Child)
- Income: $25,000
- Quarterly Credit: $174.50
- Action Taken: Filed RC66 as a newcomer
How the CRA Calculates Your Credit
The CRA uses a sliding scale based on AFNI. The lower your household income and the more children you have, the more you’ll receive. The credit is reduced as income increases and eventually phased out.
Use the CRA Child and Family Benefits Calculator to estimate your benefit quickly and accurately.
Why the GST/HST Credit Matters in 2025
With the cost of groceries, gas, and housing continuing to climb in early 2025, programs like the GST/HST credit provide critical relief. It ensures that individuals and families with modest incomes receive financial help at predictable intervals—four times a year—making budgeting a little easier during uncertain economic times.
Conclusion
The April 2025 GST/HST credit is more than just another government cheque—it’s essential support for everyday Canadians managing real expenses. By staying informed, filing taxes on time, and updating your information, you can ensure you receive the maximum amount you’re entitled to. Whether you’re a student, senior, newcomer, or single parent, this credit can make a real difference in your monthly finances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What happens if I miss filing my taxes?
A: You won’t receive the GST/HST credit unless you file your taxes. File as soon as possible to restore your eligibility.
Q2: Do newcomers to Canada qualify?
A: Yes, newcomers may qualify after filing either the RC66 or RC151 form, depending on whether they have children.
Q3: Can I get the credit if I have no income?
A: Yes, as long as you file your tax return, you may still qualify based on your AFNI.
Q4: How will I receive the payment?
A: Most people receive the payment through direct deposit. If not registered, you’ll get a mailed cheque.
Q5: What if my income changes mid-year?
A: CRA bases the payment on the prior year’s tax return. Mid-year changes may impact next year’s credit but won’t affect the current cycle.
For the most accurate and personalized information, visit CRA’s official GST/HST credit page.
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