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Canada’s GST/HST Credit: 2025–2026 Payment Schedule & Key Info
The GST/HST Credit is a quarterly, tax-free payment designed to help Canadians with low or modest incomes offset sales taxes. Here’s everything you need to know for the 2025–2026 cycle — organized for clarity, quick reading, and easy reference.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST Credit is a tax-free benefit administered by the CRA. It helps individuals and families offset GST or HST paid on everyday goods and services.
✅ Tip: Most Canadians don’t need to apply — eligibility is assessed automatically when you file your tax return.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify if you:
Are a Canadian resident for tax purposes
Are at least 19 years old, or have a spouse/common-law partner or eligible child under 19
File your annual income tax return — even with little or no income
The CRA reviews your tax return each July to determine eligibility for the upcoming credit period.
How the Credit Amount Is Calculated
The GST/HST Credit depends on:
Adjusted family net income
Marital status
Number of eligible children under 19
Maximum 2025–2026 amounts (based on 2024 tax return):
| Household Type | Annual Maximum |
|---|---|
| Single individual | $533 |
| Married/common-law (no kids) | $698 |
| Per eligible child under 19 | $184 |
⚠️ Actual payments vary based on income and household situation. Changes in income or family structure may reduce your credit.
2025–2026 Payment Calendar
| Quarter | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Q1 | July 4, 2025 |
| Q2 | October 3, 2025 |
| Q3 | January 5, 2026 |
| Q4 | April 3, 2026 |
Payment Notes:
Usually sent via direct deposit; cheques by mail may take longer
If the total annual credit is small, the CRA may issue a lump sum instead of quarterly payments
Visual Idea: Include a small calendar infographic highlighting these four payment dates for quick scanning.
⚠️ What Can Affect Your Credit
Eligibility or payment amounts can change if you:
Have adjusted income changes due to tax reassessment
Change marital status
Add/remove eligible children
Move or change residency status
CRA will send revised notices, adjusting future payments if your circumstances change.
✅ How to Confirm Payments
CRA My Account (online portal)
CRA mobile app
Notice of Determination after your tax assessment
If payments are delayed by more than 10 business days, verify your banking and mailing info with CRA.
Preparing for 2025–2026
File your 2024 tax return on time
Keep CRA info updated — address, marital status, children, banking
Check CRA My Account for benefit status and next payment
Use the credit as a quarterly budget supplement
Quick Facts
Who it helps: Low/modest-income Canadians
Payment type: Tax-free, quarterly (or lump sum if small)
Maximum annual credit 2025–2026: $533 (single), $698 (couple), $184 per child
Payment dates: July 4, Oct 3, 2025; Jan 5, Apr 3, 2026
Tip: Keep your CRA info current to avoid delays
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