In response to rising food prices and continued inflation, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will distribute a one-time $628 Grocery Rebate on August 5, 2025, to eligible Canadians.
This payment is part of the federal government’s ongoing effort to support low- and modest-income households struggling to keep up with the high cost of groceries and essential living expenses.
This rebate is tax-free, automatically calculated using your 2023 income tax return, and will be sent via direct deposit or mailed cheque depending on your CRA account setup.
Here’s everything you need to know about who qualifies, how much you can receive, and when to expect the funds.
What Is the CRA Grocery Rebate?
The Canada Grocery Rebate is a targeted, one-time financial aid issued to Canadians who meet income eligibility criteria based on their most recent tax return.
Introduced during a period of economic uncertainty, the rebate has become a recurring relief measure, helping families cover rising food costs.
Key features of the rebate:
- Tax-free and non-repayable
- Calculated using 2023 tax data
- Designed for low to moderate-income households
- Automatically issued—no application required
Eligibility Criteria for the $628 Grocery Rebate
To receive the grocery rebate in August 2025, you must:
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Have filed your 2023 income tax return
- Be eligible for the GST/HST credit
- Fall within the low to modest-income category as defined by the CRA
The rebate is tied to your family net income, marital status, and the number of dependent children under age 19.
Payment Amounts by Household Type
The maximum rebate amount is $628, but the actual payment you receive will depend on your household structure. Below is a breakdown of estimated payment amounts:
Household Type | Estimated Rebate Amount |
---|---|
Single (no children) | $234 |
Single with 1 child | $387 |
Couple (no children) | $306 |
Couple with 1 child | $467 |
Couple with 2 children | $628 |
Only households with two children qualify for the full $628 payment. All other families will receive a proportional amount based on family size and income.
When Will You Get the Grocery Rebate?
The CRA will begin issuing payments on Monday, August 5, 2025. Those registered for direct deposit will receive the funds directly into their bank accounts. For those receiving a mailed cheque, delivery may take a few additional business days.
You will also receive a CRA notice either through the MyAccount portal or by mail, which will confirm the exact amount deposited and how it was calculated.
How to Ensure You Receive the Payment
Since no separate application is required, your eligibility is determined automatically once you file your taxes. However, you should:
- File your 2023 tax return as soon as possible (if not already done)
- Log into CRA MyAccount to verify your banking information
- Check that your marital status and dependents are listed correctly
- Monitor your email, mailbox, or online CRA account in early August
Keeping your information up-to-date ensures you won’t miss or delay your rebate.
Why the $628 Rebate Matters
The grocery rebate is more than just a short-term financial aid—it is vital support for Canadians navigating economic instability. In 2025, food prices continue to climb due to:
- Global supply chain disruptions
- Elevated inflation
- Increased transportation and production costs
The rebate helps:
- Offset grocery and essential food expenses
- Reduce financial stress for low-income families
- Supplement household budgets for fresh produce, milk, eggs, and meat
- Prevent reliance on food banks or emergency support services
For many Canadians, especially single parents and seniors, this payment provides a crucial lifeline.
Government’s Long-Term Vision for Relief
Originally launched as a temporary emergency support, the grocery rebate’s continuation through 2025 shows the government’s intent to safeguard vulnerable populations.
As part of a broader economic relief strategy, the CRA’s rebate programs work in tandem with other benefits like:
- GST/HST credits
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Climate Action Incentive
- Canada Workers Benefit
With no signs of food cost reductions in the immediate future, the $628 rebate plays a strategic role in economic recovery and support.
The CRA’s $628 Grocery Rebate in August 2025 is a key form of assistance for Canadians feeling the pinch of rising food costs.
By ensuring your 2023 tax return is filed and your CRA information is current, you can receive this much-needed support automatically and without delay.
Whether you’re a single adult, parent, or part of a large household, every dollar counts—especially when it’s tax-free and tailored to your family’s needs.
As economic pressures continue, benefits like this rebate offer real relief when it’s needed most.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the $628 grocery rebate in August 2025?
Anyone who filed a 2023 tax return, is a resident of Canada, and qualifies for the GST/HST credit based on income and family size.
When will the CRA issue the grocery rebate?
Payments will begin on August 5, 2025, via direct deposit or mailed cheque, depending on your CRA preferences.
Do I need to apply separately for the grocery rebate?
No. The rebate is automatically calculated and issued based on your 2023 income tax return and GST/HST eligibility.