If you live in Canada and earn a modest income, there’s a chance you’re missing out on a tax-free benefit designed to reduce the burden of paying sales tax: the **GST/HST credit**. This cash benefit is part of the federal government’s support for lower- and modest-income Canadians, providing a quarterly payment to offset the costs associated with Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). Many people, however, are unclear if they qualify—or how much they could get.
Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the GST/HST credit could add hundreds of dollars to your bank account annually, depending on family size and income level. And the best part? Receiving the credit doesn’t require a separate application—you just need to file your taxes. Understanding the ins and outs of this program can help ensure you’re not leaving money on the table.
Key details about the GST/HST credit
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Frequency | Quarterly (January, April, July, October) |
| Maximum Annual Amount | Up to $496 for an individual (2024) |
| Eligibility | Based on net income and family situation |
| Application Required? | No, just file your tax return |
| Administered By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
Who qualifies and why it matters
Eligibility for the GST/HST credit is primarily based on your **family net income** and your **marital status**. If your income was modest according to CRA thresholds, you may qualify for the credit. In 2024, a single individual with a net income below approximately $49,000 could be eligible. Families with children can qualify at even higher income levels due to additional benefits per dependent.
To be eligible, you must also be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes and be at least 19 years old. If you’re younger than 19, you may still qualify if you have a spouse/common-law partner or you’re a parent and live with your child. This makes the credit accessible to many Canadians, including students, newcomers, and seniors living on a fixed income.
Even if your income is too low to pay taxes, filing a return is crucial because it allows the CRA to determine your eligibility for benefits like the GST/HST credit.
— Carla Mendes, Tax Policy Analyst
How much you could receive per year
The **maximum GST/HST credit for the July 2024 to June 2025 payment year** is:
- Up to $496 for a single person
- Up to $650 for a married or common-law couple
- $171 per child under 19 years of age
These numbers vary depending on your income and the number of eligible dependents. The CRA uses your tax return from the previous year (e.g., your 2023 return for payments in 2024–2025) to calculate entitlement. The total benefit is usually paid out in four equal payments, but households with very low income may receive less due to phase-outs or clawbacks as income increases.
Payment dates you need to remember
The Canada Revenue Agency pays the GST/HST credit **quarterly**, usually on the fifth day of the month. Mark your calendar for these upcoming payment dates:
- January 5
- April 5
- July 5
- October 5
If the scheduled date falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment may be made on the last business day before. You can receive the benefit via direct deposit or cheque, depending on what you selected when filing your taxes.
Winners and losers under the current guidelines
| Group | Impact |
|---|---|
| Low-income families with children | Winners — Eligible for higher amounts per child |
| Single low-income earners | Winners — May qualify for up to $496/year |
| Couples without dependents earning over $55,000 | Losers — Unlikely to qualify |
| New residents who haven’t filed taxes yet | Losers — Ineligible until a return is filed |
How to apply step-by-step
The reassuring news is that you **do not need to apply separately** for the GST/HST credit. Here’s how the process works:
- File your tax return every year, even if you have no income. The CRA uses your return to determine your eligibility.
- If you’re turning 19 or new to Canada, consider submitting **Form RC66** (Canada Child Benefits Application) or **Form RC151** (GST/HST Credit Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada) to get started.
- Ensure all personal information, including marital status and dependents, is up to date to receive the maximum credit.
- Choose direct deposit for faster and seamless payments.
Not filing taxes is the number one reason many low-income Canadians miss out on the GST/HST credit. It’s truly a free benefit for those who qualify.
— Priya Tandon, CRA Regional Officer
Common errors that can reduce your benefit
Even though the GST/HST credit is automatic, mistakes can delay or reduce your payments. Some of the most common issues include:
- Not filing taxes on time: Without a return, no credit can be issued.
- Incorrect marital status: This affects income calculation; be sure it’s updated accurately.
- Missing dependent information: Each child makes you eligible for additional credit, but must be correctly listed.
- Wrong direct deposit details: Update your banking info to avoid missing payments.
If you’re not receiving the credit but think you qualify, contact the CRA for a reassessment or check your My CRA Account for more details.
What changed this year
For the current year, the maximum credit amounts have increased slightly to reflect inflation. However, thresholds for eligibility haven’t shifted significantly, meaning that families near the cut-off points should review their adjusted net income carefully. Several anti-poverty advocates continue to call for more generous credits and expanded eligibility to better match rising costs of living.
Innovation in the CRA’s digital offerings also allows faster and more transparent tracking of benefits, including payment status alerts through the CRA mobile app or directly in your online account. Setting up My CRA Account is now more important than ever.
These benefits can make a huge difference, particularly for seniors and families juggling rising prices. The challenge is awareness and access.
— David Han, Director of Public Policy Research
Final thoughts on maximizing your tax credits
The GST/HST credit is a well-established, hassle-free way to preserve income for those who need it most. It’s not a loan, doesn’t need to be repaid, and arrives four times a year without requiring action beyond filing your tax return. Whether you’re a student, single parent, or retiree on a budget, this benefit is one more reason why tax filing—even with no income—is essential in Canada.
With inflation hitting food, transportation, and housing, every dollar counts. Check your eligibility, file on time, and stay informed to ensure you receive every benefit you’re entitled to. While it may not make you rich, the GST/HST credit could help you stay on your feet financially during trying times.
Frequently Asked Questions about the GST/HST Credit
When will I receive my GST/HST credit payments?
You’ll receive payments quarterly on January 5, April 5, July 5, and October 5—unless the date is a weekend or holiday, in which case it may arrive earlier.
Do I need to apply every year?
No, as long as you file your tax return annually, the CRA will automatically assess your eligibility and issue payments if you qualify.
What happens if I forget to file my taxes?
You won’t receive the credit unless a return is filed. It’s never too late—file as soon as possible to trigger eligibility for previous years.
Can newcomers to Canada receive the GST/HST credit?
Yes, but you need to file a return and may also need to file Form RC151 to declare residency status for the benefit.
Why did my payment amount change this year?
Your credit amount depends on your adjusted net income. Changes in your income or family structure (like marriage or a new child) can increase or reduce your payments.
How do I update my information with the CRA?
You can update your marital status, address, and banking info by logging into My CRA Account or calling their help line directly.
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