Living in Canada and paying taxes can be tough, especially if you don’t earn a lot. To help, the Canadian government gives some money back through something called the GST/HST credit. If you’re a low- or middle-income person or family, you may get up to $179 per child in 2025, and even more if you’re single or married. Let’s break it all down in simple terms—what it is, who gets it, how much, and when you’ll be paid.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is money the Canadian government gives back to people who earn less. It’s tax-free, which means you don’t have to pay tax on it. It’s given out every three months (quarterly) by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
This credit helps people and families cover the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) they pay on daily items. It depends on how much money your family earns, if you’re married, and how many kids you have under 19 years old.
How Much Money Can You Get in 2025?
The amount you get depends on your income, family size, and number of children.
Here’s the maximum amount for the 2023 base year, which is paid from July 2024 to June 2025:
| Type of Person | Total Yearly Amount | Amount Every 3 Months |
|---|---|---|
| Single person | $519 | $129.75 |
| Married couple | $680 | $170.00 |
| Each child under 19 | $179 | $44.75 |
Who Can Get the GST/HST Credit?
To get this money, you need to meet a few conditions:
Live in Canada
You must live in Canada and file taxes there.
Be at Least 19 Years Old
If you’re younger than 19, you still qualify if you:
- Have a spouse or partner, or
- Are a parent and live with your child.
File a Tax Return
Even if you didn’t earn any money, you must file your taxes every year.
Meet Income Limits
You can still get the credit if your income is under a certain amount:
- Single: Up to about $54,704
- Families: Up to about $69,015
When Will You Get Paid in 2025?
If you’re eligible, you’ll get your money four times in 2025:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
The CRA will send the money directly to your bank account, or mail you a cheque.
How To Apply for the GST/HST Credit
No Extra Forms Needed
You don’t need to apply separately if you’re already living in Canada.
Just file your taxes, and the CRA will check if you can get the credit.
If You’re New to Canada
If you moved to Canada recently, you do need to fill out a form:
- Use Form RC151 if you don’t have children.
- Use Form RC66 if you have children.
This helps the CRA know if you qualify.
Extra Help From Provinces and Territories
Some provinces and territories also give extra money with the GST/HST credit. These extra benefits come at the same time as the federal payments.
Here are some examples:
- British Columbia – Climate Action Tax Credit
- New Brunswick – Harmonized Sales Tax Credit
- Newfoundland and Labrador – Income Supplement and Seniors’ Benefit
- Nova Scotia – Affordable Living Tax Credit
- Ontario – Sales Tax Credit (Part of Ontario Trillium Benefit)
- Prince Edward Island – Sales Tax Credit
- Saskatchewan – Low-Income Tax Credit
- Yukon – Carbon Price Rebate
These are automatic if you qualify. Just make sure to file your taxes every year!
Why the GST/HST Credit Is Important
The GST/HST credit helps reduce the impact of taxes on families and individuals who earn less money. It gives back some money you spend during the year on goods and services.
If your financial situation is tight, this credit can help with basic costs like food, clothes, and household items.
It also encourages everyone to file taxes, even if they don’t make much money.
Helpful Tips to Get the Credit
- Always file your taxes on time, even if you didn’t work.
- Update your personal info with CRA if you move, get married, or have a child.
- Use direct deposit so you get your money faster.
- Keep a copy of forms if you’re new to Canada and applying.
Conclusion
The GST/HST credit is a smart way the Canadian government helps people and families with lower incomes. You could receive up to $179 per child, plus more if you’re single or married. Just file your taxes every year, and the CRA takes care of the rest.
\Make sure your information is always up to date, so you don’t miss out on money that can really help with daily living costs. This benefit supports many Canadians, giving back some of the taxes you pay and making life a little easier.
FAQ’S
1. Do I need to apply for the GST/HST credit each year?
No. Just file your tax return, and the CRA will check automatically.
2. What if my income changes during the year?
It may affect how much you get next time. Let the CRA know about big changes.
3. Can both parents get the child amount in shared custody?
Yes, each parent may get half, as long as they qualify.