With the onset of summer 2025, the Canadian government is once again providing relief to millions of citizens struggling with inflation, gas, groceries and other necessities in the form of GST/HST rebate. It is a credit given by Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) which is given every three months as a tax-free amount to individuals with low or moderate incomes.
In this article we will provide you with all the essential information connected with GST/HST rebate in the simple and clear words: who is eligible, how much money will be offered, when it will be offered and how you can use the best of it.
What is GST/HST rebate?
The GST/HST credit, which we commonly call rebate, is a benefit that the government provides to people with low or moderate incomes. This amount is given to compensate for the taxes you pay on everyday items—such as clothing, food, household goods, etc.
GST i.e. Goods and Services Tax and HST i.e. Harmonized Sales Tax, these taxes are applicable on almost every product and service in Canada. In such a situation, this rebate becomes a small but permanent means of relief.
Why is this rebate necessary?
In today’s time when the prices of everything are increasing—especially grocery, gas and electricity bills—this rebate acts as a financial security shield.
Its purpose is that citizens of every class, especially low-income families, can get some relief from these additional expenses. This rebate is tax-free and to get it you only have to file your annual income tax return.
How much money will you get in July 2025?
The amount of GST/HST rebate is decided according to your family situation and income. See below for the estimated maximum annual payment for 2024–2025:
- Situation Annual maximum amount
- Single individual $519
- Married or with a common-law partner $680
- $179/child for each child under 19
Because this payment is quarterly, it is split into 4 times:
| Situation | Paid Each Quarter |
|---|---|
| Single individual | $129.75 |
| Married (No children) | $170.00 |
| Married (2 children) | $170 + ($178.25 × 2) = $526.50 |
| Single parent (one child) | $129.75 + $44.75 = $174.50 |
Note: Your total is paid in full once a year and this will be in July provided that your total is less than 50.
When are payments made?
The GST/HST rebate is paid four times a year:
July 5
October 5
January 5
April 5
Pay at next: July 5, 2025.
So what is eligibility?
The following are eligibility criteria that you need to fulfill in order to get the GST/HST rebate:
- You are a resident of Canada (for tax purposes)
- You have a low or moderate income
- You are 19 years of age or older
If you are under 19, you may still be eligible if:
- You are married or a common-law partner
- You are a parent living with your child
And most importantly: You must file your income tax return every year, even if you have zero income.
How to apply?
For existing citizens:
If you are already living in Canada and file taxes, there is no need to make a separate application. The CRA automatically considers you eligible based on your income details.
For new citizens:
In case you are a new comer to Canada and filling an application to have it, you should do the following:
- Form RC151 (GST/HST Credit Application)
- Form RC66 (for child-related benefits, if applicable)
- These forms are available on the CRA website.
Is this rebate based on income?
Yes, absolutely. It is called an income-tested benefit. That is, your adjusted family net income determines how much you will get. If your income is above a certain limit, you may or may not get this credit.
Where can you spend this amount?
The GST/HST rebate amount is not limited in use. This is a cash amount that comes directly into your bank account. You can spend it on any need—like groceries, rent, transportation, or utility bills.
What to do if you didn’t get the rebate?
If you filed your taxes on time and still haven’t received the rebate by July, you can take the following steps:
- Login to “My Account” on the CRA website
- Check your bank account details and status
Where to get official information?
You can visit the CRA’s official website for all updates and application information related to the GST/HST rebate:
CRA – GST/HST Credit
Conclusion
The GST/HST rebate might appear as petty but when it is used to pay to other expenses throughout the year it will mean a lot of relief- particularly to households experiencing low incomes. Even in case you haven not paid your tax as yet, do not wait. That $519, $680 or $179 could be a vital support for your family this month.
FAQs
1. What are GST/HST rebates?
Answer: GST/HST rebates are quarterly tax-free payments provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help offset the sales tax burden (GST/HST) for low- and moderate-income individuals and families.
2. Who is eligible to receive the GST/HST rebate in July 2025?
Answer: Canadian residents aged 19 or older with low or modest income are eligible. You may also qualify if you’re under 19 and married, a parent living with your child, or receiving child benefits.
3. How often are GST/HST payments issued?
Answer: Payments are issued quarterly, on the 5th of July, October, January, and April each year.
4. When will the next GST/HST rebate be paid?
Answer: The next payment will be issued on July 5, 2025.
5. Do I need to apply separately for GST/HST credits?
Answer: No separate application is needed if you file an income tax return annually. Eligibility is automatically assessed by CRA.
