The Canadian government has introduced an additional GST payment to help low- and middle-income families cope with rising costs.
This program aims to provide financial relief through tax-free quarterly payments for eligible individuals and families. Here’s everything you need to know about the next $519, $650, and $171 additional GST payments in 2025, including eligibility, payment timelines, and how to apply.
Canada 3 Additional GST Payment
What is the Additional GST Payment?
The additional GST payment is a tax-free refund issued quarterly to eligible Canadians. It is designed to reduce the financial burden on essential goods and services, offering supplemental relief alongside the regular GST/HST credit.
Payment Timeline:
- January 5, 2025
- April 5, 2025
Eligibility is assessed automatically based on your 2024 income tax return.
Benefits Breakdown
| Category | Annual Amount |
|---|---|
| Single Individuals | $519 |
| Married Couples | $650 |
| Per Child (under 19) | $171 |
Example
A family of three (two parents and one child) could receive $821 annually, calculated as $650 for the couple and $171 for the child.
Eligibility
To qualify for the additional GST payment, you must meet the following criteria:
Residency
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
Income Limits
- Single individuals: Income must be around $35,000 or less.
- Families with children: Limits vary based on the number of dependents.
Tax Filing
- File your 2024 income tax return to allow the CRA to assess your eligibility.
Age
- Be at least 19 years old.
- Exceptions: If you are married or have children, you can qualify under the age of 19.
How to Apply
The great news is you don’t need a separate application to receive the additional GST payment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you qualify:
- File Your 2024 Income Tax Return
- The CRA will calculate your eligibility and payment amount automatically.
- For Newcomers
- Complete Form RC151 and submit it to the CRA to apply for GST/HST credits.
- Verify Your Information
- Ensure your tax return includes accurate details about your marital status and dependents.
- Payment Method
- Payments will be directly deposited into your bank account or sent by cheque.
Important Deadlines
To qualify for the January 2025 payment, you must file your 2024 income tax return before the April 30, 2025 deadline. Late submissions may delay or reduce your payments.
Key Facts
No Fees Involved
- The additional GST payment is entirely free of cost.
- Filing your income tax return is the only requirement—there are no application fees.
Accurate Information
To avoid misinformation, always verify details through the official Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website.
Benefits of the Additional GST Payment
This initiative aims to mitigate inflation’s impact by providing extra financial assistance to qualifying individuals and families. By ensuring compliance with eligibility criteria, you can secure a steady source of relief without any extra hassle.
Remember, these payments are not just about extra money; they represent an essential part of Canada’s social support system for those who need it the most.
