On January 3, 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will distribute the first Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) credit payments of the year. These quarterly, non-taxable benefits aim to help low- and modest-income Canadians offset the GST/HST they pay on goods and services.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Residency: Must be a resident of Canada at the beginning of the payment month.
- Age: Generally, individuals aged 19 or older are eligible.
- Income Thresholds: Eligibility and payment amounts are determined based on adjusted family net income from the previous tax year.
Payment Amounts for July 2024 – June 2025:
- Single Individual: Up to $519 annually.
- Married/Common-law Couple: Up to $680 annually.
- Per Child Under 19: Up to $179 annually.
The January payment represents one-quarter of the total annual amount, calculated based on your 2023 income tax return.
Upcoming Payment Schedule for 2025:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
Important Considerations:
- Tax Filing: Filing your 2023 income tax return is essential to determine eligibility, even if you had no income.
- Information Updates: Ensure your personal information, including marital status and number of dependents, is current with the CRA to receive accurate payments.
- Missed Payments: If you do not receive your payment by January 15, 2025, verify your eligibility and payment status through your CRA My Account or contact the CRA directly.
These payments are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to provide financial relief to Canadians, ensuring that essential taxes do not disproportionately burden those with lower incomes.
