CRA to Issue Extra GST Payment: The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has announced an extra GST payment in 2025, offering timely financial support to millions of eligible Canadians. This one-time top-up complements the usual quarterly Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit payments and reflects the federal government’s ongoing commitment to offsetting rising living expenses for low- and modest-income households.
This special payment provides critical assistance as Canadians continue to feel the effects of inflation, housing costs, and increasing food prices. If you’re a student, single adult, parent, retiree, or a family receiving other government benefits, this additional GST credit could offer meaningful relief.
Let’s explore what this payment means, who qualifies, how to receive it, and how much you might expect in March 2025.
CRA to Issue Extra GST Payment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Type | Extra GST/HST credit payment (one-time top-up) |
| Estimated Amount | Up to $250 per person or family (based on prior GST top-ups) |
| Next Deposit Date | March 2025 (date to be confirmed by CRA) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Must be eligible for regular GST/HST credit based on 2024 income |
| Quarterly Payment Dates | Jan 3, Apr 4, Jul 4, Oct 3 (2025) |
| Official Source | CRA GST Credit Page |
The CRA’s extra GST payment in March 2025 is a proactive measure to help eligible Canadians manage rising costs. Whether you’re covering household bills, buying groceries, or saving for the future, this one-time payment is designed to offer real financial relief.
To ensure you receive it, file your taxes early, update your CRA account, and stay informed about benefit changes. For the most accurate details and updates, visit the CRA’s official GST credit page.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly benefit provided by the CRA to help individuals and families with lower incomes offset the cost of federal sales taxes paid on everyday goods and services. Unlike many benefits, the GST credit is automatically calculated from your tax return, meaning there’s no separate application.
These credits are designed to make Canada’s tax system more equitable by redistributing a portion of the national revenue back to households with limited earnings. As such, they play a key role in reducing poverty and supporting economic resilience for millions.
Who Typically Qualifies?
- Low- and modest-income workers
- Students and recent graduates
- Seniors on fixed incomes
- Single parents and families
- Individuals receiving other federal income supports
Why Is There an Extra GST Payment in 2025?
Due to ongoing economic volatility, the federal government has authorized a one-time GST top-up for 2025 to help eligible recipients manage essential living expenses. This follows similar measures in previous years:
- 2022: One-time GST payment doubled the regular quarterly amount.
- 2023: Introduced the “Grocery Rebate” in addition to GST credits.
- 2025: Extra GST credit expected again in response to persistent inflation and high interest rates.
These additional payments demonstrate how the GST credit system is responsive to national economic conditions and can be adjusted year to year to serve Canadians better.
Who Is Eligible for the Extra GST Payment?
Eligibility mirrors the standard GST/HST credit program. To receive the March 2025 top-up:
You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
This means you must live in Canada and be taxed as a resident in the month prior to and during the month of the payment.
You must be at least 19 years old.
If you’re younger than 19, you can still qualify if:
- You’re married or living common-law.
- You’re a parent and live with your child.
You must have filed a 2024 income tax return.
Even if you had no income, filing your return is necessary to trigger eligibility.
Your income must fall below certain thresholds.
These vary depending on your household size:
- Single individuals: Under ~$50,000
- Couples with children: Under ~$60,000–$65,000 (approximate)
How Much Will You Receive?
While the CRA has not finalized amounts for the 2025 payment, past examples provide a useful guide:
2022 One-Time Payment Benchmarks:
- Single adult: Up to $234
- Married couple with two children: Up to $467
Given inflationary trends, the 2025 payment is expected to range between $225 and $250 per eligible person or household. Final amounts will depend on income, family size, and marital status.
Example Scenarios:
- Emma (Single, no children, income: $32,000)
- Receives full GST quarterly amount
- Expected top-up: ~$234–$250
- Alex and Jordan (Couple, two children, income: $58,000)
- Eligible for partial quarterly credits
- Expected top-up: ~$375–$420
- Sophie (Senior, income: $21,000)
- Receives full GST credit and other senior benefits
- Expected top-up: ~$250
When Will You Get the Extra GST Payment?
The CRA plans to deposit the extra GST payment in March 2025, though the exact date is yet to be confirmed.
Regular 2025 GST Payment Dates:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
The March payment will be in addition to these dates and will likely appear as a separate transaction in your CRA My Account or banking statement.
Tip: Set up direct deposit to receive your payment faster and avoid delays due to mail.
CRA to Issue Extra GST Payment Ensure You Receive It
To make sure you get the extra GST payment, take these steps now:
1. File Your 2024 Tax Return On Time
The CRA uses your tax return to assess eligibility. File by April 30, 2025, to avoid delays.
2. Update Your CRA My Account
- Confirm or change your direct deposit info
- Update your mailing address
- Report changes in marital status or dependents
3. Check Your Eligibility Notices
After your tax return is assessed, CRA will send a GST/HST notice by mail or online. It will show your regular quarterly amounts and any top-ups.
Note: You do not need to apply separately for the extra payment — it will be sent automatically if you qualify.
Tips for Using the Extra GST Payment Wisely
This one-time payment may be modest, but it can help if used strategically:
Ideas for Spending or Saving:
- Groceries: Stock up on essentials or shop bulk to save
- Utilities: Pay off heating or power bills in advance
- Public Transit: Buy monthly passes or reload fare cards
- Kids’ Needs: Pay for extracurriculars or back-to-school costs
- Emergency Fund: Add to savings for future expenses
Using this payment for a specific goal — whether reducing debt or covering a bill — can maximize its long-term value.
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FAQs On CRA to Issue Extra GST Payment
Will everyone get the extra GST payment?
No. Only those eligible for the regular GST/HST credit based on their 2024 income tax return will receive it.
Can I check if I’m eligible?
Yes. Log into your CRA My Account or call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281.
Do I need to apply separately?
No application is required. If you qualify, the CRA will automatically issue the extra payment.
What if I file my taxes late?
Late filers may still receive backdated payments. However, delays could mean waiting longer for your top-up.
Can I receive the payment if I live abroad?
You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes in the qualifying month. Some temporary absences may be acceptable.
