The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) provides quarterly GST/HST credit payments to support low- and modest-income families with the cost of goods and services taxes. The first installment for 2025 will be deposited on January 3, 2025, as part of the regular payment schedule. Here is everything you need to know about eligibility, application, and payment details.
What is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free payment aimed at reducing the financial burden on eligible individuals and families with low incomes. It is calculated based on the previous year’s tax return and delivered quarterly.
Key Payment Dates for 2025:
| Quarter | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1st Quarter | January 3, 2025 |
| 2nd Quarter | April 4, 2025 |
| 3rd Quarter | July 5, 2025 |
| 4th Quarter | October 4, 2025 |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the GST/HST credit, individuals must meet the following conditions:
- Residency: Must be a resident of Canada.
- Age: Applicants must be at least 19 years old, or younger if they are a parent or living with a spouse/partner.
- Income Thresholds: Eligibility is based on family net income reported in the previous year’s tax return. Lower incomes increase the likelihood of qualifying.
- Tax Filing: A tax return must be filed, even if there is no taxable income.
Special considerations apply for parents of children under 19, who may receive additional credits for dependents.
How to Apply?
While no formal application is needed for the GST/HST credit, the CRA determines eligibility based on the tax return filed for the previous year. To ensure receipt of the January 2025 payment:
- File your 2024 tax return on time.
- Update personal information with CRA (e.g., marital status, address, or direct deposit details).
How Much Can You Receive?
The GST/HST credit amounts depend on income and family size. Below are approximate amounts for the 2025 payments:
| Recipient | Maximum Annual Credit |
|---|---|
| Individual (no children) | $306 |
| Married/Common-law couple | $612 |
| Per child (under 19) | $161 |
For low-income families with children, the credit can significantly alleviate financial stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is the January 2025 payment scheduled?
The CRA will issue the first GST/HST payment for 2025 on January 3, 2025.
2. How often are GST/HST payments made?
Payments are made quarterly, typically in January, April, July, and October.
3. What happens if I don’t receive my payment on time?
If your payment hasn’t arrived within 10 business days, contact the CRA to resolve the issue.
4. Can I check my payment status online?
Yes, you can log into your CRA My Account to view upcoming payments or receive reminders.
Additional Information
If you’re newly eligible or have concerns about your payment, visit the CRA’s official website or contact their support team for assistance. Ensuring your tax return is filed accurately and all personal details are up to date is crucial for receiving payments without delays.