The GST/HST Credit is a valuable, non-taxable financial aid provided quarterly to help low- and modest-income Canadians offset the cost of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) they pay on everyday purchases. As we step into 2025, here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding this credit, including eligibility requirements, payment amounts, and key dates.
Table of Contents
What is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a financial relief program designed to help households balance the burden of GST/HST costs. It ensures that eligible individuals and families have support to manage their expenses more effectively.
Key Features:
- Quarterly Payments: Issued four times a year.
- Based on Tax Return: Payments are calculated based on your previous year’s income tax return.
- Inclusive Eligibility: Payments can include benefits for the individual, their spouse or common-law partner, and dependent children under 19.
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Who Qualifies for the GST/HST Credit?
To be eligible for the GST/HST credit, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Residency:
- You must be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes at the beginning of the month in which the payment is issued.
2. Age Requirement:
- You must be at least 19 years old in the month of the payment.
3. Special Circumstances for Those Under 19:
- You qualify if you are:
- Married or in a common-law relationship.
- A parent living with your child.
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How To Apply for the GST/HST Credit
For Canadian Residents:
- File Your Taxes: Even if you had no income in 2023, you must file an income tax return. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will automatically determine your eligibility based on your filing.
For Newcomers to Canada:
- If You’re Not a Parent: Submit Form RC151 (GST/HST Credit and Canada Carbon Rebate Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada).
- If You’re a Parent: Complete:
- Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefit Application).
- Form RC66SCH (Status in Canada and Income Information).
Send your forms to the nearest CRA tax centre to initiate the application process.
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GST/HST Payment Amounts for 2025
The credit amount depends on your income from the 2023 tax year and your family situation. Below are the maximum amounts for the payment period July 2024 to June 2025:
- Individuals: Up to $519 annually.
- Married/Common-law Couples: Up to $680 annually.
- Per Child Under 19: Additional $179 per child annually.
How Is the GST/HST Credit Calculated?
The CRA calculates your credit based on your 2023 tax return. Once processed, the CRA will notify you in July 2024, detailing your eligibility and the amount you will receive each quarter.
2025 GST/HST Payment Dates
Mark your calendar with the following dates for GST/HST payments in 2025:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
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What To Do If You Miss the January 2025 Payment
If your GST payment isn’t deposited by January 15, 2025, here’s what you can do:
- Check Your CRA My Account: Verify your eligibility status.
- Update Your Information: Ensure your banking and mailing details are current.
- Contact CRA: Call the CRA helpline at 1-800-387-1193 for assistance.
Maximize Your Benefits
The GST/HST Credit provides much-needed financial relief to eligible Canadians. Filing your taxes on time and keeping your information updated with the CRA ensures you don’t miss out on these benefits.
For newcomers, completing the necessary forms promptly will help you access your entitled credits without delay. Stay informed and plan your finances around these quarterly payments to make the most of the support available.
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