As the GST/HST credit is rolled out for 2025, many Canadians are discovering delays or even missing payments altogether. For people counting on this quarterly tax-free benefit, this can cause real financial strain. Understanding why some miss their credit — and how to prevent it — is essential to staying on top of finances.
The Goods and Services Tax (GST)/Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) credit is a federal program designed to help low- and modest-income Canadians offset the tax burden on everyday goods and services. It is paid quarterly by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and is calculated based on your most recent tax return.
Recipients qualify either via direct deposit or mailed cheque, every three months (in July, October, January, April). The amount depends on family size, marital status, income, and additional benefits may apply for children under 19.
For 2025, the maximum annual GST/HST credit is $496 per individual, with higher amounts for families or households with children.
Even though the credit is automatic for most Canadians who file taxes, several factors cause payments to be delayed or lost:
CRA calculates eligibility using your latest tax return. If you didn’t file your 2024 taxes or filed late, the CRA can’t determine your eligibility, so your credit may be delayed or withheld.
Life changes like marriage, divorce, separation, or changes in the number of children affect eligibility. Unless you update these changes with CRA, your credit may be miscalculated or blocked.
If you receive direct deposit, having outdated or wrong bank account info can prevent deposit. For cheque recipients, an outdated address can cause the cheque to be lost or delayed.
The GST/HST credit is only for residents of Canada for tax purposes. Temporary absences or changes in residency status, if not reported, can affect eligibility.
Your adjusted family net income plays a role. If your income surpasses certain thresholds, your credit can be reduced or eliminated, making some Canadians ineligible altogether.
| Payment Quarter | Timing | Typical Direct Deposit Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 2025 | Already paid | Around 21st (or closest business day) | First payment of the year |
| October 2025 | Next payment | Around 21st | Second quarterly payment |
| January 2026 | Following payment | Around 21st | Third quarterly payment |
| April 2026 | Final payment | Around 21st | Last payment of the benefit year |
Direct deposit recipients generally receive funds on the 21st (or next business day). Cheque recipients may see delays of several days longer.
For 2025, the maximum credit for an individual is $496 annually, and families with children may qualify for more.
To avoid missing your credit, take these proactive steps:
Even if your income is low or you owe no tax, filing your return every year is critical — CRA uses it to assess your credit eligibility.
Report changes in marital status, number of dependents, or residence promptly. These updates ensure your credit amount is correct and payments are timely.
Use CRA’s My Account to set up or update your direct deposit info. This cuts down postal delays and reduces risk of missing payments.
CRA provides an online calculator and the My Account portal where you can check your eligibility, confirm payment amounts, and view upcoming payment dates.
If you suspect your payment is delayed or missing, call CRA at 1-800-959-8281. Be ready with your Social Insurance Number (SIN) to speed up resolution.
The GST/HST credit for 2025 is a vital support mechanism for many Canadians, but delays or missed payments are real risks for those with late tax returns, outdated personal info, residency changes, or income that exceeds thresholds.
By filing on time, keeping your info accurate, using CRA tools, and contacting CRA at the first sign of trouble, you can ensure you receive the credit you’re eligible for. Stay proactive — don’t let missing paperwork or outdated info cost you the benefit you deserve.
If you didn’t file or filed late, CRA cannot assess your eligibility and will delay or withhold your GST/HST credit until your return is processed.
Yes. If your adjusted family net income exceeds certain thresholds, the credit may be reduced or eliminated entirely.
