Life’s getting expensive, isn’t it? Groceries, gas, rent—it all adds up. But there’s a bit of help coming for many Canadians soon. On October 4, 2024, the federal government will send out the next GST/HST credit payments round. If you qualify for it, this payment can make a real difference.
The GST/HST credit is there to help people and families with low to modest incomes. It’s a way to offset the extra costs of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on your everyday purchases. The payment shows up four times a year, and for some, it can be a vital boost to help with the rising living costs.
But here’s the thing: not everyone gets it, and the amount can vary. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect and how to ensure you’re on the list to receive it.
What Exactly Is the GST/HST Payment?
The GST/HST credit payments are given by the federal government to help Canadians with low or modest incomes.
It’s meant to compensate for the GST and HST you pay for most things you buy. And here’s some good news—it’s tax-free. You don’t have to report it when you file your taxes, so it’s money in your pocket without any strings attached.
The government sends out these payments every quarter—four times a year. The payment on October 4 is the second one for this benefit period, which runs from July 2024 to June 2025. The CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) calculates the payment based on your income from last year (2023), so ensure you’ve filed your tax return.
This credit doesn’t just help individuals. Families with children under 19 can also receive higher payments. It’s one way the government is trying to make life a bit more affordable for people feeling the squeeze.
How Do You Qualify for the GST/HST Credit?
Now, the big question: Do you qualify for this credit?
The good news is that you don’t have to apply separately for it. The CRA automatically checks your eligibility when you file your tax return. Once you’ve submitted your 2023 return, they’ll figure out whether you should get this payment. That’s why filing your taxes on time is so important—even if you don’t owe any money!
However, you still need to meet a few basic requirements:
- Residency: You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes at the beginning of the month when the payment goes out.
- Age: You need to be at least 19 years old in the month before the payment is issued.
- Tax Return: You must have filed your 2023 tax return. Without it, the CRA won’t know your income and won’t be able to calculate your payment.
Here’s another good news: new Canadians, such as permanent residents, international students, or even work permit holders, can qualify, too. You just need to have filed your first Canadian tax return.
How Much Money Will You Get?
So, let’s talk numbers. How much money are you looking at?
The amount you receive depends on several factors, such as your family income, marital status, and whether you have children under 19. Every year, the CRA adjusts the payment amounts based on inflation and the cost of living.
For the period from July 2024 to June 2025, the maximum annual amounts are as follows:
- Single individuals: Up to $519 a year
- Married or common-law couples: Up to $680 a year
- For each child under 19: Up to $179 per child
These amounts are spread out across four payments. So, if you’re eligible, you’ll get part of that total each quarter.
Let’s look at an example. If you’re a single person with an income under $11,039, you could receive up to $340 a year. On the other hand, a family with two kids and a combined income of $25,000 could receive around $1,038 annually.
Here’s a snapshot of how the payments scale based on adjusted family income:
| Adjusted Family Net Income | No Children | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children |
| Under $11,039 | $340.00 | $859.00 | $1,038.00 | $1,217.00 |
| $25,000 | $519.00 | $859.00 | $1,038.00 | $1,217.00 |
| $50,000 | $235.20 | $575.20 | $754.20 | $933.20 |
| $65,000 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $4.20 | $183.20 |
As your income rises, the payments drop off. This way, those who need the help most get the largest payments.
When Will You Get Your Payment?
Mark your calendar—October 4, 2024, is the next scheduled payment date for the GST/HST credit. This will be the second payment for the 2024–2025 cycle. After that, the next payments will be on:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
Usually, payments arrive by the 5th of the month unless that day falls on a weekend or holiday. In that case, you’ll see the money in your account a bit earlier, on the last business day before the 5th.
What If You Don’t Get Your Payment?
If October 4 comes and goes and you don’t see the money in your account or mailbox, don’t worry. Give it about 10 business days for the payment to arrive. If you still haven’t received it after that time, you’ll want to contact the CRA.
There are a few common reasons for delays:
- Your personal information (like your address or banking details) is incorrect or outdated.
- The CRA has a backlog, which can sometimes happen when they process a large number of payments at once.
- There’s an issue with your direct deposit, especially if you’ve changed bank accounts recently.
To fix these issues, you can update your information through the CRA My Account portal or by calling them. If you need to report a missing payment, contact the CRA at 1-800-387-1193.
Don’t Forget About Other Payments in October
Alongside the GST/HST credit payments, you might also qualify for other government payments scheduled for October. For example:
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments for families with kids under 18
- Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) payments for seniors
Each of these programs provides additional financial support, so make sure your information is current with the CRA to avoid missing out.
Make Sure You’re Ready for Your GST/HST Credit
GST/HST credit payments can be a much-needed boost for Canadians who are experiencing rising living costs. Money in your pocket can help with everyday expenses, whether it’s groceries, bills, or other essentials.
To ensure you’re set to receive it, check that your tax return is filed and your details are correct with the CRA.
And if you’re wondering whether you’re eligible or need to update your information, don’t wait! Log into your CRA My Account or call them. These payments can make a difference—don’t miss out!