With food inflation continuing to strain household budgets, the Government of Canada has stepped in with a further measure of grocery relief for low- and modest-income households.
Building on the existing Grocery Rebate program tied to the GST/HST credit, the Canada Grocery Rebate will deliver much-needed support—up to $1,000—through a one-time automatic deposit in September 2025.
What’s Happening: $1,000 Grocery Rebate in September 2025
This new one-time Canada Grocery Rebate is being delivered automatically to eligible Canadians via the CRA as part of the quarterly GST/HST credit framework. No application is required for individuals already receiving that credit.
Eligibility Criteria — Who Qualifies?
You will receive the rebate if:
- You are receiving the GST/HST credit for July 2025 (based on your 2024 tax return).
- You filed your 2024 tax return by the CRA’s deadline.
- Your 2024 adjusted family net income falls below eligible thresholds:
- Individuals: under $49,166
- Couples with two children: under $65,000 (limits increase with family size)
- You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes as of September 1, 2025, age 19 or older (or younger with dependents/partner).
Payment Date & How It’s Delivered
- Payment Date: Scheduled for September 20, 2025, aligning with the quarterly GST/HST credit cycle.
- Method: Delivered via direct deposit into your CRA-linked account, or by mailed cheque (allow up to 10 business days).
- Tracking: Log in to CRA My Account to confirm receipt and check the exact amount.
Estimated Rebate Amounts by Household Type
| Household Type | Income Limit | Estimated Rebate Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Single (no children) | ≤ $49,166 | $234 |
| Couple (no children) | ≤ $58,000 | $306 |
| Couple with 1 child | ≤ $58,000 | $387 |
| Couple with 2 or more children | ≤ $60,000 | $456–$612 |
| Senior living alone (GIS) | Based on GIS eligibility | $225 |
Estimated payments vary based on family size and income, with seniors on GIS receiving a special rate.
Key Highlights
- Rebate Type: One-time, tax-free support.
- Application: Automatic for eligible GST/HST credit recipients.
- Delivery: Via direct deposit or cheque in late September.
- Goal: Alleviate grocery cost pressure amid ongoing inflation.
Canada’s announcement of a $1,000 Grocery Rebate—distributed automatically in September 2025 to qualifying GST/HST credit recipients—is a timely and meaningful relief measure amid rising grocery prices.
While not reaching $1,000 for everyone, estimated amounts—ranging from $234 to $612—provide tangible support. Eligible households should ensure their 2024 tax return is filed, banking information is up-to-date with CRA, and access their CRA My Account to stay informed.
This relief helps bridge the gap as Canadians continue navigating inflation’s impact on daily necessities.
