A circulating claim says the GST/HST credit is a flat $179 in 2025. That’s incorrect. The credit is a tax-free, income-tested benefit paid quarterly.
For the July 2025–June 2026 benefit year (based on your 2024 tax return), the CRA’s calculation sheet sets these maximum annual amounts: $533 for a single individual; $698 for a married/common-law couple; and $184 per eligible child.
There’s also a $349 base amount and an additional credit up to $184 for single individuals, all subject to income phase-outs.
2025 payment dates
Payments are issued four times in 2025: January 3, April 4, July 4, and October 3 (direct deposit typically lands the same day).
Who is eligible?
You’re generally eligible if you file a tax return and, at payment time, you’re a resident of Canada for tax purposes and at least 19, or are (or were) a parent living with a child, or have (or had) a spouse/common-law partner.
Filing your 2024 return is essential—even with no income—so the CRA can assess your entitlement automatically.
How much will you get?
Your amount is calculated from the base and additional credits, then reduced by 5% of your adjusted family net income above $45,521.
The credit goes to zero once your family income hits the thresholds below (for the 2024 base year): $56,181 for a single with no children; $59,481 for a married/common-law couple with no children; higher cut-offs apply when children are present.
Quick reference table (2025 benefit year)
| Situation | Max annual | Approx. quarterly | Phase-out begins | No payment at/above |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single, no kids | $533 | $133.25 | $45,521 | $56,181 |
| Married/common-law, no kids | $698 | $174.50 | $45,521 | $59,481 |
| Each child (<19) | $184 | $46.00 | Included in family test | Varies by family size |
Figures reflect CRA’s July 2025–June 2026 calculation sheet (2024 base year). The rumor of a flat $179 is not part of the federal program.
How to receive the credit
- File your 2024 return promptly; the CRA automatically assesses GST/HST credit—no separate application needed.
- Set up direct deposit in CRA My Account to avoid mail delays.
- Update life changes (marital status, number of children, address, or direct-deposit info) so your payment is accurate.
Key takeaways
- The GST/HST credit is not a one-time $179 payment.
- Real maximums are $533 (single), $698 (couple), plus $184/child annually, paid quarterly.
- 2025 payment dates: Jan 3, Apr 4, Jul 4, Oct 3.
Canada’s GST/HST credit remains a quarterly, income-tested benefit—not a flat $179. For 2025, confirm your eligibility, know the real maximums, and mark the payment dates to make the most of this cost-of-living support.