Many Canadians will receive up to $680 in 2025 from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) through the GST/HST credit program. If you’re wondering whether you qualify and how much you can get, you’re not alone. This financial support is designed to help low and modest-income Canadians cope with rising living costs.
Let’s break down exactly what this payment is, who’s eligible, and how to make sure you receive it.
What Is the $680 CRA Payment?
The $680 CRA payment refers to the GST/HST credit, a tax-free quarterly benefit meant to help eligible Canadians offset part of the goods and services tax (GST) or harmonized sales tax (HST) they pay.
This benefit is especially important in 2025 as inflation continues to affect daily living expenses. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you could receive up to $680 annually.
Who Qualifies for the CRA $680 Payment?
To be eligible for the CRA’s GST/HST credit in 2025, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 19 years old (or have a spouse/common-law partner or be a parent who lives with your child)
- Be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes
- Have an adjusted family net income within the qualifying range
- File an annual tax return (even with no income)
How Much Can You Receive?
The amount you receive depends on your family situation and net income. The maximum amounts for the 2024–2025 payment period (based on the 2023 tax return) are:
| Family Situation | Maximum Annual GST/HST Credit |
|---|---|
| Single individual | $519 |
| Married or common-law couple | $680 |
| Each child under 19 | $179 per child |
Important: These payments start to reduce when your adjusted family net income exceeds around $41,000 for singles and $57,000 for families.
When Will You Get Paid?
The GST/HST credit is paid four times a year, so you can expect your 2025 payments on the following dates:
- January 5, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 5, 2025
- October 4, 2025
If your total yearly amount is under $50, CRA may issue it as a lump sum payment in July instead of quarterly.
How to Apply for the GST/HST Credit
The best part? There’s no separate application! Here’s what you need to do:
- File your taxes – Even if you have no income, you must file your tax return for the previous year.
- Keep your information up to date – Ensure your marital status, dependents, and address or banking info are current with CRA.
- Wait for CRA’s assessment – If you’re eligible, CRA will automatically notify you of your GST/HST credit amount and schedule.
Extra Provincial Credits
Many provinces offer additional tax credits that are often bundled with the GST/HST credit:
- Ontario: Up to $360 per adult and child through the Ontario Sales Tax Credit
- BC: Extra payments under the BC Climate Action Tax Credit
- PEI, NB, NL: HST-specific top-ups available based on residency
Check your provincial tax benefit section to see if you qualify for more.
If you’re a low to modest-income Canadian, the CRA’s $680 GST/HST credit can offer welcome relief in 2025. With no application needed and payments issued quarterly, this benefit is an easy way to reduce the burden of rising costs.
Make sure to file your tax return on time, keep your personal details up to date, and stay alert for your CRA notification. A small step could mean hundreds of extra dollars in your pocket this year!
FAQs
Do I need to apply separately for the $680 CRA payment?
No. As long as you file your taxes, the CRA will automatically assess your eligibility for the GST/HST credit.
Will this credit affect other benefits?
No. The GST/HST credit is non-taxable and does not impact other federal or provincial benefits.
What if my income changes mid-year?
The credit amount is based on your previous year’s tax return. Changes during the year won’t affect payments until the next cycle.