The Canada GST/HST credit is a tax-free benefit designed to assist low and moderate-income households by offsetting Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) expenses.
While no GST/HST credit payment is scheduled for February 2025, the next installment will be issued on April 4, 2025. This guide outlines payment amounts, eligibility criteria, and how to check your status to ensure you receive your benefits.
Canada GST/HST Payment Dates 2025
The Canadian government distributes the GST/HST credit quarterly to eligible individuals and families. Here are the scheduled payment dates for 2025:
| Quarter | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 3, 2025 |
| April | April 4, 2025 |
| July | July 4, 2025 |
| October | October 3, 2025 |
Since the GST/HST payments follow a quarterly schedule, there is no payment for February 2025.
Who Qualifies for the GST/HST Credit?
To be eligible for the GST/HST payment, individuals must meet certain residency, age, and income requirements.
1. Residency Requirement
- You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
2. Age Requirement
- You must be at least 19 years old.
- If under 19, you may still qualify if:
- You have or had a spouse or common-law partner.
- You are or were a parent living with your child.
3. Income Requirement
- Your adjusted family net income must be below a specific threshold.
- The exact amount you receive is based on your latest tax return.
How to Apply for the GST/HST Credit?
Unlike other government benefits, no separate application is needed for the GST/HST credit. You are automatically considered for the payment when you file your annual tax return.
For New Residents and Young Adults
- New Residents: If you recently moved to Canada, file a tax return for the year you became a resident to be considered.
- Turning 19? If you turn 19 before April 2025, you must file your 2023 tax return to receive your first payment in July 2025.
How Much Will You Receive?
The amount you receive for the GST/HST credit depends on your family status and income. The maximum annual amounts for the 2024–2025 period are:
- $496 per year for single individuals.
- $650 per year for married or common-law partners.
- $260 per year for each child under 19.
Since payments are issued quarterly, a single individual would receive $124 per payment.
Factors That Affect Your GST/HST Credit
Several factors can impact the amount you receive:
1. Marital Status Changes
- If you get married or divorced, your eligibility and payment amount may change.
- Always notify the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) of marital status changes.
2. Number of Dependents
- The more children you have, the higher your GST/HST credit.
- If custody arrangements change, update your status with CRA.
3. Income Variations
- If your income increases above the threshold, you may no longer qualify.
- A lower income could result in a higher GST/HST credit amount.
How to Check Your GST/HST Credit Status?
You can check your payment status and eligibility through:
- CRA My Account: Log in online to view your benefits.
- CRA Mobile App: Download the app to track payments.
- Direct Deposit Notification: If enrolled, payments will be automatically deposited into your bank account.
The GST/HST credit provides valuable financial assistance to low and moderate-income Canadians by offsetting taxation costs.
While there is no GST/HST payment scheduled for February 2025, the next disbursement is set for April 4, 2025.
To ensure you receive your benefits, file your 2023 tax return, maintain accurate information with the CRA, and check your eligibility using online tools.
FAQs
When is the next GST/HST payment after February 2025?
The next GST/HST credit payment is scheduled for April 4, 2025.
How do I apply for the GST/HST credit?
You don’t need to apply separately. The CRA automatically determines eligibility based on your tax return.
What happens if I don’t file my tax return?
If you don’t file your 2023 tax return, you won’t receive the GST/HST credit for 2025.