Kim
The Canadian government has officially confirmed the continuation of the $179 GST/HST Credit for 2025, a tax-free quarterly payment designed to assist low- and modest-income individuals and families in offsetting the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) they pay.
Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this credit provides financial relief amid rising living costs.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment that helps individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset the GST or HST they pay on goods and services. It may also include payments from related provincial and territorial programs.
Eligibility Criteria for the $179 GST/HST Credit
To qualify for the $179 GST/HST Credit in 2025, you must meet the following conditions:
- Residency: Be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes.
- Age: Be 19 years of age or older, or have (or had) a spouse or common-law partner, or be a parent living with your child.
- Tax Filing: File a 2024 income tax return, even if you have no income to report.
Eligibility and payment amounts are determined based on your adjusted family net income and family size. Individuals with a net income below certain thresholds typically qualify for full or partial payments.
2025 GST/HST Credit Payment Schedule
The CRA issues GST/HST credit payments on a quarterly basis. For 2025, the confirmed payment dates are:
| Quarter | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Q1 | January 3, 2025 |
| Q2 | April 4, 2025 |
| Q3 | July 4, 2025 |
| Q4 | October 3, 2025 |
Payments are made via direct deposit or mailed cheque, depending on your CRA account settings.
How Much Will You Receive?
The maximum base amount for the GST/HST credit in 2025 is:
- $179 for a single individual
- $179 for a spouse or common-law partner
- $94 per child under 19 years old
For example, a family of four could receive up to $546 across all quarters in 2025, depending on their adjusted family net income.
How to Ensure You Receive the Credit
To receive the $179 GST/HST Credit:
- File Your Taxes: Submit your 2024 income tax return by April 30, 2025.
- Update Personal Information: Ensure your marital status, number of dependents, and banking information are current with the CRA.
- Register Children: If applicable, register your children for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) to receive additional amounts.
Even if you have no income to report, filing your tax return is essential to trigger eligibility for the credit.
Understanding the Tax-Free Benefit
The GST/HST credit is completely tax-free, meaning:
- It does not count as taxable income.
- You do not need to repay it.
- It does not affect other federal or provincial benefits.
This makes it a valuable financial support tool, especially for individuals on fixed or lower incomes.
The $179 GST/HST Credit for 2025 continues to provide essential financial relief to eligible Canadians.
By understanding the eligibility criteria, payment schedule, and how to ensure you receive the credit, you can better manage your finances amid rising living costs.
Remember to file your 2024 tax return on time and keep your personal information up to date with the CRA to maximize your benefits.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the GST/HST credit each year?
No, you are automatically considered for the credit when you file your annual income tax return.
What if my income or family situation changes during the year?
Update your information with the CRA through your My Account to ensure accurate payment amounts.
How can I check my payment status?
Log in to your CRA My Account to view your benefit and credit payment details.