Next CRA Payment Drops April 2025: The next GST/HST credit payment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is coming on April 4, 2025, and thousands of eligible Canadians may receive a helpful financial boost. This tax-free quarterly benefit is designed specifically for individuals and families with low or modest incomes. It helps offset the Goods and Services Tax or Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) they pay throughout the year when purchasing everyday goods and services.
The GST/HST credit plays a vital role in providing financial relief, especially during periods of inflation or economic uncertainty. While it’s not a huge sum in any single quarter, over the course of a year it can make a meaningful difference—particularly for those who qualify for additional supports such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) or Canada Carbon Rebate.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore exactly who qualifies, how much you could receive, how to make sure you get your payment on time, and how to take advantage of related benefits. We’ll also walk through practical examples, tips, and answers to your most common questions.
Next CRA Payment Drops April 2025
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Next Payment Date | April 4, 2025 |
| Annual Maximum Amounts (2024–25) | $519 (single), $680 (married/common-law), $179 per child under 19 |
| Quarterly Installment Estimate | ~$129.75 (single), up to ~$219+ for families |
| Eligibility Age | 19+ or under with qualifying dependent/spouse |
| Application Requirement | File a 2023 tax return (mandatory) |
| Residency Requirement | Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes |
| CRA Resource Page | GST/HST Credit – Canada.ca |
The April 4, 2025 GST/HST credit payment is a small but important piece of financial relief for millions of Canadians. If you meet the income and residency criteria and filed your 2023 tax return, you could be eligible for quarterly payments that help offset rising costs of everyday living.
Take a few proactive steps—file your taxes, register for direct deposit, and update your personal info with CRA—to ensure your payment arrives on time and in full. Combined with other benefits like the CCR and CCB, the GST/HST credit can form an important part of your financial strategy.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a non-taxable, quarterly payment issued by the CRA to help offset the cost of the federal GST or HST that Canadians pay on everyday purchases. The credit is particularly targeted toward people with lower household incomes, and the amounts are calculated automatically using your previous year’s tax return.
This credit is one of the most accessible supports available. You don’t need to apply separately (unless you’re a newcomer to Canada), and it’s designed to put money back in your pocket without reducing any other federal or provincial benefits you receive.
When Are GST/HST Payments Issued?
The April 4, 2025 installment is part of the 2024–2025 benefit year, which runs from July 2024 to June 2025. Payments are issued on a quarterly basis, typically near the beginning of the month.
Payment Dates for the 2024–2025 Benefit Year:
- July 5, 2024
- October 4, 2024
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
You’ll receive your payment either by direct deposit (fastest method) or cheque by mail. Direct deposit is strongly recommended for security and speed.
Who Can Receive the GST/HST Credit?
To be eligible for the GST/HST credit, you must meet all of the following criteria:
Age Requirement:
- Be 19 years or older, OR
- Be under 19 but have:
- A spouse or common-law partner, or
- A child you live (or have lived) with
Residency:
- Be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes during:
- The month before the CRA makes a payment
- The beginning of the month when the payment is issued
Income Threshold:
The credit is income-tested. Your adjusted family net income must fall below the federal limit:
- Single individuals: Up to ~$54,704
- Couples (married/common-law): Up to ~$72,244
- Income thresholds increase with each child under 19
How Much Will You Receive?
The amount you receive depends on your family size, marital status, number of children, and total net income. Below are the maximum annual amounts for the 2024–2025 benefit year:
| Family Situation | Annual Credit | Quarterly Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Single (no dependents) | $519 | ~$129.75 |
| Couple (no children) | $680 | ~$170.00 |
| Per child under 19 | +$179 | ~$44.75 per child |
Sample Scenarios:
Example 1: Single Parent with Two Kids
- Base: $519
- Two children: $179 x 2 = $358
- Total Annual: $877
- Quarterly: ~$219.25
Example 2: Married Couple with One Child
- Couple: $680
- One child: $179
- Total Annual: $859
- Quarterly: ~$214.75
Next CRA Payment Drops April 2025 Apply for the GST/HST Credit
Filing Taxes Is Key
The only way to qualify is to file your income tax return every year, even if you had no income. This lets the CRA automatically determine your eligibility.
Steps for Newcomers:
- Complete your 2023 tax return
- Submit Form RC151 with your application
- Attach proof of immigration status and residency
If your marital status, address, or number of dependents changes, update your CRA records promptly to ensure payments are accurate. For help, call the CRA at 1-800-387-1193 or visit a free tax clinic near you.
Real-Life Examples
Case 1: Emily, 22-Year-Old Student
Emily is studying full-time and earned $17,000 in 2023 working part-time. She files her tax return in March 2024.
- Meets the age and residency criteria
- Qualifies for the full $519 credit
- Receives ~$129.75 each quarter starting July 2024
Case 2: James and Priya, Family of Three
Together they earned $68,000 in 2023 and have a 7-year-old child.
- Meet income and residency eligibility
- Annual credit = $680 (couple) + $179 (child) = $859
- Receive ~$214.75 per quarter
Tips to Maximize Your Credit and Related Benefits
- File taxes early – The sooner you file, the sooner you qualify.
- Sign up for direct deposit – Payments arrive faster and safer.
- Update your info – Notify CRA of life changes (marriage, child, move).
- Explore additional CRA programs:
- Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR)
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Use CRA’s online tools:
- Benefits Calculator
- CRA My Account
FAQs On Next CRA Payment Drops April 2025
Q1: Do I need to apply separately for the GST/HST credit?
No. If you file a tax return, you’re automatically considered.
Q2: What if I didn’t work or earn income last year?
You should still file your return. Many benefits—including the GST/HST credit—don’t require income to qualify.
Q3: Is the GST/HST credit taxable income?
No. It’s completely tax-free and won’t reduce other benefit entitlements.
Q4: I have joint custody of my child. Can I still receive the child portion?
Yes. In shared custody arrangements, both parents may receive 50% of the child credit.
Q5: What if I miss the payment?
Check your CRA account. If eligible, the payment may still be issued retroactively.
