The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that eligible Canadians will receive an extra GST/HST credit payment in September 2025. This additional payout is part of the government’s continued effort to help low- and middle-income households cope with rising inflation and living expenses.
For many Canadians, the GST/HST credit is already a vital financial support mechanism. The extra payment in September offers timely relief, especially for families facing high grocery and housing costs.
What is the GST/HST Credit?
The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit is a quarterly tax-free benefit designed to offset the cost of sales tax for lower-income Canadians. It ensures that households are not disproportionately burdened by consumption taxes.
Key Features of the GST/HST Credit
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Paid quarterly (January, April, July, and October).
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Non-taxable benefit, meaning it does not reduce other benefits.
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Eligibility is based on income and family size, determined through tax returns.
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Can be combined with other government support programs.
The September 2025 extra payment is not part of the regular quarterly cycle but an additional one-time top-up.
Why an Extra Payment in September 2025?
The government announced this relief measure due to:
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High food inflation, making groceries more expensive.
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Rising rent and utility bills, putting pressure on low-income households.
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Economic inequality, with families struggling to keep up with costs.
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A commitment to ensure that vulnerable Canadians are not left behind during economic uncertainty.
This extra payment mirrors previous “top-up” measures provided in earlier years, showing the government’s continued use of tax credits as targeted relief.
How Much is the Extra GST/HST Credit in September 2025?
The exact amount depends on income level and family composition. While the CRA has not published fixed amounts yet, estimates suggest:
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Single adults: Around $234.
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Couples with no children: Around $306.
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Families with one child: Up to $467.
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Families with two or more children: Up to $628.
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Seniors living alone: Generally qualify for higher support.
The payment is in addition to the regular October GST/HST credit.
Eligibility for the September 2025 Extra Credit
Eligibility is determined automatically by the CRA based on your 2024 tax return. To qualify:
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You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
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You must have filed a 2024 income tax return.
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Your income must fall within the low- to middle-income bracket.
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Families with children receive higher support through the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) plus GST/HST top-ups.
No separate application is required—if you are eligible, the CRA will automatically process your payment.
Payment Dates
The extra GST/HST credit will be deposited in September 2025, before the next regular quarterly installment.
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Direct Deposit Date: 13 September 2025.
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Mailed Cheques: May take 7–10 business days to arrive.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to sign up for direct deposit with CRA to receive their funds quickly and securely.
How Will Payments Be Made?
Payments will be issued the same way as your other CRA benefits:
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Direct deposit into your bank account (recommended).
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Cheque by mail to the registered address with CRA.
If your banking details have changed, update them through your CRA My Account to avoid delays.
Impact on Canadian Families
This extra credit provides crucial relief for households struggling with expenses. Benefits include:
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Offsetting grocery costs amid high inflation.
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Helping families cover rent, utilities, and school expenses.
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Reducing financial stress for seniors and single-parent households.
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Supporting consumer spending, boosting the economy slightly.
Criticisms and Challenges
Despite its positive impact, some experts raise concerns:
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One-time relief does not solve long-term affordability issues.
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Middle-income households just above eligibility limits may still struggle.
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Risk of creating a dependency on temporary relief rather than systemic solutions.
The government argues that this measure is a short-term cushion while broader economic policies are being implemented.
Conclusion
The extra GST/HST credit September 2025 offers much-needed financial relief for low- and middle-income Canadians. With payouts starting on 13 September 2025, this one-time benefit will help households manage grocery, housing, and utility costs during an inflationary period.
Although temporary, the measure underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to targeted support programs that directly benefit vulnerable citizens. For millions of Canadians, this credit is a welcome safety net in challenging economic times.
FAQs
What is the GST/HST credit?
It is a tax-free quarterly benefit that helps offset the cost of sales tax for low-income Canadians.
Why is there an extra payment in September 2025?
To provide additional relief due to inflation and rising living costs.
How much will I get from the extra credit?
Amounts vary by income and family size, but payments range from $234 to $628.
Do I need to apply for the extra credit?
No, eligibility is automatic if you filed your 2024 tax return.
When will the extra GST/HST credit be paid?
On 13 September 2025 (direct deposit) or by cheque within 10 days.
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