With rising inflation, energy costs, and grocery prices, the Canadian government is stepping up to support households.
This September, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will deliver an extra GST/HST credit payment, designed to provide one-time relief for low- and middle-income Canadians.—a timely addition alongside the regular credit schedule.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST Credit is a tax-free, quarterly benefit aimed at helping Canadians offset the cost of consumption taxes.
It’s based on household income and family size, automatically determined through your tax return. Typical payments arrive in January, April, July, and October and do not reduce other benefits.
This September’s extra payment is a special one-time top-up, not part of the regular quarterly cycle, aimed at providing inflation relief.
Why the Extra Payment in September 2025?
Inflation has driven higher costs across the board—groceries, rent, utilities—and prompted the government to introduce this targeted top-up. It’s part of the broader commitment to help vulnerable Canadians navigate economic uncertainty and avoid falling behind financially.
Estimated Extra Credit Amounts
While exact figures may vary, projected amounts for the one-time September payment are as follows:
| Household Type | Estimated Extra Payment |
|---|---|
| Single adult | ≈ $234 |
| Couple—no children | ≈ $306 |
| Family with one child | ≈ $467 |
| Family with two or more children | ≈ $628 |
| Seniors (living alone) | Likely higher support |
These estimates are in addition to the regular October GST/HST credit.
Who Qualifies for the September Extra Credit?
Eligibility is automatic through CRA’s evaluation based on the 2024 tax return. You must:
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- Have filed your 2024 income tax return.
- Fit within low- to middle-income thresholds as defined by CRA.
The benefit is automatic—no additional application is required.
When Will the Extra Payment Be Issued?
- Direct Deposit: Expected around September 13, 2025.
- Mailed Cheques: Typically take 7–10 business days to arrive after issuance.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to use CRA’s My Account to track status and ensure banking details are current.
How Will It Be Delivered?
The payment method mirrors other CRA benefit disbursements:
- Preferred is direct deposit into your bank account.
- Otherwise, a cheque will arrive by mail based on your registered address.
Ensure your banking or mailing details are updated in My Account to avoid delays.
How the Extra Credit Helps Families
This extra payment offers much-needed relief by:
- Easing grocery and essential expenses during high inflation.
- Assisting with housing and utility costs, particularly for single-parent or low-income households.
- Providing stability for seniors living alone.
- Injecting modest spending power into the economy through enhanced consumer confidence.
Limitations and Considerations
While beneficial, some challenges exist:
- It’s a one-time measure, not a substitute for long-term affordability solutions.
- Middle-income families just above CRA thresholds may miss out despite using similar resources.
- There’s a risk of dependence on temporary relief rather than systemic affordability improvements.
The government’s aim is clear: offer short-term relief while broader, structural support measures are developed.
An extra GST/HST credit payment is set to arrive in September 2025, providing targeted relief for low- and middle-income household facing soaring living costs.
If you qualify (identified automatically after filing your 2024 taxes), expect your payment around September 13. This additional support, while temporary, is a valuable boost at a time when Canadians need it most.
FAQs
Do I need to apply separately for the extra GST/HST credit?
No. Eligibility is assessed automatically based on your 2024 tax return—no separate application is needed.
Will the extra credit affect my regular October payment?
No. This is an additional one-time payment; the October GST/HST credit will still proceed.
What should I do if I don’t receive the payment?
Check your CRA My Account to confirm your banking or address details, and wait the required timeframe before contacting CRA if still missing.