The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is all set to distribute the final quarterly GST/HST credit payment for 2025 on October 4. This $248 tax-free benefit aims to ease the burden of inflation for low- and moderate-income households across the country.
If you’re wondering whether you’re eligible, how much you’ll receive, or how to check your payment status, here’s everything you need to know about the October 2025 installment.
What Is the CRA GST/HST Credit?
The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit is a non-taxable quarterly benefit paid to help Canadians offset the cost of federal sales taxes on everyday goods and services.
It’s designed primarily for low-income and modest-income individuals or families, and it plays a critical role in Canada’s social support system—especially during times of high inflation.
GST/HST Credit Payment Schedule for 2025
The GST/HST credit is issued every three months. Here’s the full schedule for 2025:
| Quarter | Payment Month | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | January 2025 | Paid |
| Q2 | April 2025 | Paid |
| Q3 | July 2025 | Paid |
| Q4 | October 4, 2025 | Upcoming |
Important: Payment will be issued via direct deposit or mailed cheque, depending on how your CRA account is set up.
GST/HST Credit Amounts – October 2025
Your payment amount depends on your 2024 net family income, marital status, and number of children under 19. For the 2025–2026 benefit year, the maximum annual GST/HST credit amounts are:
| Category | Annual Amount | October Payment (Quarterly) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Adult | $496 | $124 |
| Married/Common-Law Couple | $650 | $162.50 |
| Each Child Under 19 | $171 per child | $42.75 per child |
Example: A family of four (2 adults, 2 kids) may receive up to $248 this October.
Who Is Eligible for the October 2025 GST/HST Credit?
To qualify for the October GST payment, you must:
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Be 19 years or older, or
- Have a spouse/common-law partner
- Be a parent living with your child
- Have filed your 2024 tax return
The CRA calculates your eligibility based on:
- Net family income
- Number of dependent children
- Marital status
- Province or territory of residence
If your income exceeds the threshold, your credit may be reduced or phased out.
Do You Need to Apply?
No, you do not need to apply separately for the GST/HST credit. As long as you have filed your 2024 tax return, the CRA will automatically determine your eligibility and process your payment.
Payment Methods:
- Direct Deposit: Fast and secure
- Mailed Cheque: May take a few extra days to arrive
Tip: Log into your CRA MyAccount to confirm your banking details and mailing address before October 4 to avoid any delays.
What If You Don’t Receive the Payment?
If your GST credit doesn’t arrive by mid-October:
- Log into CRA MyAccount to check your payment status
- Confirm your banking or address details
- Call CRA support if there’s no update by the end of the second week of October
Paper cheques, especially in rural areas, may take extra business days to reach recipients.
How the GST Credit Supports Canadians
With the rising cost of groceries, rent, fuel, and utilities, the GST credit serves as a vital financial buffer for:
- Seniors living on fixed incomes
- Students
- Single parents
- Low-wage earners
- Families with young children
Because it’s non-taxable, it won’t reduce your eligibility for other government benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) or Old Age Security (OAS).
Quick Checklist Before October 4
To ensure you receive your payment smoothly:
- File your 2024 taxes (if you haven’t already)
- Log in to CRA MyAccount to confirm your banking/address info
- Review your marital status and dependents
- Set up direct deposit for faster delivery
Failure to do any of these may result in delayed or missed payments.
Looking Ahead – What’s Next?
The October 4, 2025 payment marks the final installment for this benefit year. The next GST credit cycle will begin in January 2026, based on 2025 tax filings.
As we approach the end of the year, the CRA is expected to announce updated payment thresholds and any changes to credit amounts to reflect inflation.
The $248 GST/HST credit coming this October offers much-needed relief for millions of Canadians. If you’re eligible, this tax-free support can help you manage rising expenses and maintain household stability.
Make sure your tax filings are current and your CRA account is accurate to ensure you receive your funds without delay. As inflation continues to challenge household budgets, every dollar helps—especially when it arrives on time.
FAQs
When will the $248 GST credit be paid?
The final quarterly GST/HST credit payment for 2025 will be issued on October 4, 2025.
Who is eligible for the GST/HST credit?
Residents of Canada who filed a 2024 tax return, are 19 or older (or meet exceptions), and fall under income limits are eligible.
Do I need to apply for the GST credit separately?
No. The CRA automatically assesses eligibility using your 2024 tax return—no separate application is needed.