The $628 Grocery Rebate is part of Canada’s ongoing effort to support low- and modest-income households with rising food costs due to inflation. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this financial assistance program aims to help families manage their grocery expenses in 2025. Below, we explore the rebate’s eligibility criteria, payment date, status, and more.
The Grocery Rebate Program
The Grocery Rebate is an enhancement of the GST/HST credit, introduced in 2023 to mitigate the financial strain caused by rising food prices. It provides up to $628 per household, depending on income and family size. This rebate is automatically distributed to eligible Canadians without requiring a separate application.
Key Details:
| Program Name | Grocery Rebate 2025 |
|---|---|
| Administered by | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Maximum Amount | CAD $628 |
| Eligibility | Low- and modest-income Canadians |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
| Payment Date | To be confirmed by CRA |
Eligibility for the $628 Grocery Rebate
To qualify for the Grocery Rebate in 2025, individuals and families must meet specific criteria outlined by the CRA:
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 19 years old.
- Income Threshold:
- Individual income must not exceed CAD $45,000.
- Family income should be below CAD $65,000.
- Tax Return Compliance: Recipients must file their income taxes on time.
- Residency: Applicants must reside in Canada at the time of payment.
Automatic Enrollment
Eligible Canadians do not need to apply separately for the rebate. The CRA determines eligibility based on tax returns and processes payments accordingly.
Payment Date and Distribution
The CRA has not announced a specific payment date for the 2025 Grocery Rebate. However, it is expected to follow a similar timeline to previous rebates, likely disbursed in mid-year or aligned with GST/HST credit payments.
Payment Methods
- Direct Deposit: If you have set up direct deposit with the CRA, the rebate will be deposited directly into your bank account.
- Cheque: For those without direct deposit, a cheque will be mailed to the address on file.
How to Check Your Payment Status
You can track the status of your Grocery Rebate through the CRA’s official online portal. Follow these steps:
- Log in to your CRA My Account.
- Navigate to the “Benefits and Credits” section.
- Check your payment history or upcoming payments.
If you are eligible and have not received the payment, contact the CRA at 1-888-863-8662 for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to apply for the Grocery Rebate?
No. The CRA automatically determines eligibility based on your tax return.
2. When will the payment be made?
The exact date has not yet been announced, but it is expected to follow the GST/HST payment schedule.
3. What happens if I don’t receive my rebate?
If eligible, contact the CRA to verify your payment status and ensure your direct deposit or mailing information is up-to-date.
4. How is the rebate amount calculated?
The rebate amount depends on your income, family size, and eligibility for the GST/HST credit. Families with children or lower incomes typically receive higher amounts.
Conclusion
The $628 Grocery Rebate is a valuable financial aid for Canadians struggling with rising food costs. Ensure your eligibility by filing your taxes on time and keeping your CRA account details updated. With automatic enrollment and flexible payment methods, the rebate is designed to offer accessible and timely relief.