If you’re living in Canada and feeling the pressure of rising prices, there’s some good news. The Canadian government is stepping in with a $250 GST Relief Payment. It’s expected to hit eligible households in June 2025. This payment is part of the plan to help low and middle-income families deal with the high cost of living.
Let’s break it all down in simple terms.
What exactly is the $250 GST Relief Payment?
This isn’t a new benefit. It’s a one-time, tax-free top-up to your existing GST/HST credit. Think of it as a small boost, not a monthly or recurring payment. It’s just a way to help you catch your breath during these expensive times.
It’s meant for Canadians who are already eligible for GST/HST credits. So, if you usually get those quarterly GST payments, you’re probably in line for this too.
Why is the government giving this money now?
Because things are getting tough. Grocery prices, rent, gas, utility bills – they’ve all gone up. The government knows that many families are struggling to keep up. So, the $250 is meant to give people a little breathing room.
Here’s what it can help with:
- Buying groceries
- Paying bills
- Covering basic living expenses
It might not fix everything, but it’s something. And something is better than nothing, right?
Who qualifies for the $250 GST Relief Payment?
Not everyone will get it. There are a few boxes you need to tick:
- You must live in Canada. You should either be a citizen, a permanent resident, or have a valid visa.
- Your taxes should be in order. If you haven’t filed your returns for previous years, it might affect your eligibility.
- Your income must be under $150,000 annually.
- You need to have filed your 2025 tax return.
- You should already be receiving GST/HST credits or qualify for them.
- While retirees usually don’t qualify, some exceptions apply. For example, if you’re receiving Canada Pension Plan or Quebec Pension Plan payments, you might still be eligible.
When and how will you get the payment?
Payments will be sent out in June 2025. There’s no need to apply separately for it. If you’re eligible, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will handle everything for you.
You’ll get the money in one of two ways:
- Direct deposit (if you’ve shared your banking info with the CRA)
- Paper cheque in the mail (if you haven’t registered for direct deposit)
It’s a one-time thing. So don’t expect it to show up every few months. It’s just for now – to help during a tough season.
How much will you get?
It’s a flat $250 per household. Here’s how it works:
- If you live alone, you’ll get $250.
- If you live with your partner, you’ll still get just one payment per household. So not $250 each, just $250 total.
- Got kids? Same thing. It’s still $250 per household, no extra money for more kids.
Where can you check your payment status?
Log in to your CRA My Account online. That’s the fastest way to see updates. The CRA will also send notices either online or by mail. If June passes and you don’t see anything, give the CRA a call.
Why this $250 actually matters
It might seem like a small amount. But for many families, it’s a big help. Even just a little extra can mean less stress about putting food on the table or paying off a power bill.
The idea is simple. Help Canadians during a time when everything feels more expensive. And let’s be honest, every bit counts.
How is this different from other programs?
This isn’t the same as the Canada Child Benefit or the Canada Worker Benefit. It’s just a short-term, one-time payment. You don’t need to apply for it, and it’s not going to repeat. It’s just tied to the GST/HST credit system.
So if you’re already getting that credit, this $250 is your bonus.
In the end, this relief payment is the government’s way of saying, “We know times are hard. Here’s something to help.”