As of May 2025, the Canadian government has confirmed a one-time $300 federal payment to assist low- and moderate-income Canadians facing the continued burden of inflation and the rising cost of essential living expenses.
This non-taxable benefit is part of Canada’s broader affordability efforts to help households manage daily costs like food, rent, and utilities.
This article explains everything you need to know, including eligibility criteria, payment timelines, how to prepare, and how to ensure you don’t miss out.
What Is the $300 Federal Relief Payment?
The $300 Federal Payment is a non-taxable, one-time government benefit issued in 2025. It is designed to offer immediate, short-term financial relief without affecting other federal supports like:
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Old Age Security (OAS)
- GST/HST credit
The payment does not count as taxable income and will not impact existing benefit levels for recipients.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the $300 payment, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Must be a resident of Canada at the time of eligibility assessment.
- Age: Must be 18 years or older as of the payment eligibility date.
- Income Level: Targeted at low- to moderate-income Canadians.
- Examples include:
- Single individual earning less than $32,000/year
- Couples with two children earning below $65,000/year
- Examples include:
- Tax Filing: Must have filed a 2024 income tax return.
- CRA Records: Your mailing and banking details must be current with the CRA.
When Will the $300 Payment Be Issued?
While the exact date is yet to be confirmed, the government has indicated that payments will be processed in early summer 2025, with distribution expected between June and July.
Summary $300 Federal Payment
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $300 (one-time, non-taxable) |
| Eligibility | Canadian residents, 18+, low/moderate income |
| Tax Filing Requirement | Must file 2024 tax return |
| Payment Timeline | Expected June–July 2025 |
| Application Needed? | No – processed automatically via CRA |
| Direct Deposit | Yes – CRA My Account setup recommended |
How to Ensure You Receive the $300 Payment
Though no application is required, you must take the following steps to avoid payment delays:
- File Your 2024 Taxes Early
- The Canada Revenue Agency uses tax return data to determine eligibility.
- The sooner you file, the sooner you qualify.
- Set Up Direct Deposit
- Log into your CRA My Account and verify your banking details.
- Direct deposit ensures quicker and safer delivery than paper cheques.
- Update Contact Information
- Ensure your mailing address, phone number, and email are current.
- Outdated details may result in lost or delayed payments.
Why the $300 Payment Matters
The federal government introduced this payment as part of a broader response to combat the cost-of-living crisis affecting Canadian households.
With inflation impacting everything from groceries to fuel, this payment is a targeted solution to help struggling families and individuals stay afloat.
This benefit complements other relief programs, such as:
- Enhanced GST rebates
- Canada Housing Benefit
- Provincial rent and utility supports
Together, these efforts aim to reduce financial stress for millions of Canadians.
The $300 Federal Payment in 2025 is a crucial step in providing immediate relief to Canadians grappling with financial pressure. With no application required, all that’s needed is a timely tax filing and updated CRA account.
By acting now—filing early, confirming direct deposit, and verifying your details—you can ensure fast and smooth access to this valuable benefit.
Stay informed, stay proactive, and secure the support you deserve.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the $300 federal payment?
No. If you meet the eligibility criteria and have filed your 2024 taxes, the payment will be issued automatically.
Will this payment affect my other government benefits?
No. The $300 payment is non-taxable and does not impact existing benefit programs such as OAS, CCB, or GST credits.
When should I expect to receive the payment?
Eligible Canadians can expect the payment to arrive between June and July 2025, depending on when their taxes are processed.