As of May 2025, Canadian households continue to benefit from the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit program, with a $179 installment scheduled this spring.
This non-taxable payment aims to ease the burden of indirect taxes on low- to moderate-income individuals and families, offering much-needed financial relief amid persistent cost-of-living pressures.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) automatically assesses and distributes this credit based on income tax returns, making it a straightforward support mechanism for eligible recipients.
Eligibility Criteria for the May 2025 GST/HST Credit
Eligibility for the May 2025 GST/HST credit depends largely on family net income as reported in the 2023 tax return. To qualify, individuals must be Canadian residents for income tax purposes and meet at least one of the following criteria at the beginning of the payment month:
- Be 19 years of age or older
- Have (or had) a spouse or common-law partner
- Be (or had been) a parent and live with their child
The CRA calculates the GST/HST credit using 2023 income, emphasizing the importance of accurate and timely filing. Even those with no income in 2023 should file to determine eligibility.
Payment Amount and Schedule – May 2025 Breakdown
The $179 payment is part of the quarterly GST/HST credit cycle, typically issued in January, April, July, and October. For May 2025, payments are being processed on or around May 10, slightly delayed due to administrative timing around the filing season. Here’s a quick look at the current schedule:
| Payment Period | Payment Date | Amount (Single Adult) | Amount (With Children) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1 2025 | January 5, 2025 | Up to $123 | Up to $174 (with 2 kids) |
| Q2 2025 | May 10, 2025 | Up to $179 | Up to $284 (with 2 kids) |
| Q3 2025 | July 5, 2025 | TBD | TBD |
| Q4 2025 | October 4, 2025 | TBD | TBD |
Payment amounts may vary depending on family size and income. A single adult with no children could receive up to $179 in May, while families with children may receive significantly more.
How the GST/HST Credit Supports Canadian Families in 2025
The May 2025 credit arrives at a crucial time for many Canadians. With inflation rates still impacting grocery, fuel, and housing costs, even modest tax credits like this can help bridge financial gaps.
For families, especially those with young children, the additional funds support essentials like diapers, school supplies, and transportation. In some provinces,
families also combine GST/HST credits with provincial benefit programs for greater impact—such as the Ontario Trillium Benefit or the BC Climate Action Tax Credit.
Moreover, the credit is indexed annually to inflation, ensuring it keeps pace with rising costs. This indexing, along with the CRA’s streamlined disbursement process, makes the GST/HST credit one of the most effective forms of direct support in the federal social safety net.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Delays
Many eligible Canadians miss out on payments due to incomplete tax filings, outdated personal information, or unreported changes in marital status or dependents. To avoid such delays:
- File the 2023 taxes as early as possible
- Keep CRA My Account information current
- Notify the CRA of changes in marital status or dependents
- Set up direct deposit for faster access
If circumstances changed after the last tax return (e.g., having a child or separation), individuals may be entitled to a recalculation of the credit, which the CRA may apply retroactively.
The May 2025 GST/HST credit offers timely financial relief to eligible Canadian families amid ongoing economic pressures.
With up to $179 per individual and higher amounts for families, this tax-free benefit helps offset living costs. Timely tax filing and updated information are essential to ensure uninterrupted payments from the CRA.
FAQs
What is the GST/HST credit?
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment provided by the Canadian government to help individuals and families with low to modest incomes offset the GST or HST they pay.
How do I apply for the GST/HST credit?
There is no separate application for the GST/HST credit. Eligibility is automatically determined when individuals file their annual income tax returns.
What should I do if I haven’t received my GST/HST credit payment?
If the payment hasn’t been received on the scheduled date, wait 10 working days before contacting the CRA. Ensure that personal information is up to date and that the tax return has been filed.