In 2025, a wave of rumors is circulating that Canada will issue a $628 Grocery Rebate in October to help households cope with rising food costs. But is this payment real? As of now, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has not confirmed a new grocery rebate for 2025. In fact, the last official Grocery Rebate was a one‑time payment in July 2023.
This article gives you a clear breakdown: what the rebate was, what’s being claimed now, what you should watch out for (especially scams), and how to stay prepared if the government does revive the program.
What Was the 2023 Grocery Rebate?
The 2023 Grocery Rebate was a temporary support payment tied to the GST/HST Credit system. Canadians who already qualified for the GST/HST Credit automatically received a one‑time rebate, without needing to apply.
Amounts paid in 2023 varied by family size and income. The rebate was meant to ease inflation pressures and food cost spikes
Because it was a one-off measure and not ongoing, many Canadians now question whether it will return.
What Is the Status in 2025?
- The CRA clearly states that there is no new Grocery Rebate program in 2025; the 2023 rebate was a one‑time payment.
- CRA also issues warnings about scams claiming there is a 2025 rebate — many sites instruct people to “apply” or provide banking information, which is false.
- Any communications that claim to be from the CRA about a 2025 Grocery Rebate and ask for personal or banking info should be treated suspiciously. Do not trust texts, emails, or web pages unless validated by “@cra.gc.ca” or official Canada Government portals.
So as of now, the $628 rebate remains speculative and unconfirmed by any official source.
Claims Being Circulated (Unverified)
Some sites are claiming:
- The Grocery Rebate is returning in October 2025 with a value of $628 for eligible households.
- That eligibility will be tied to the 2024 tax return, residency status, and income thresholds.
- That the rebate will be disbursed via direct deposit or mailed cheque in mid‑October.
These claims are not backed by the CRA, and many are likely clickbait or misinformation. Always check CRA’s official site first.
Potential (If Reinstated) — What Could Eligibility Look Like?
Below is a speculative table based on earlier rebate designs and typical benefit rules:
| Criterion | Speculated Rule |
|---|---|
| Tax return | Must have filed 2024 tax return |
| Residency | Canadian resident for tax purposes |
| Age | Possibly age 19+ |
| Income cap | Low to modest income bracket (cutoff threshold) |
| Benefit linkage | Likely tied to GST/HST Credit eligibility |
| Payment method | Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
| Maximum amount | Up to $628 depending on household composition |
Again — these are unofficial projections, not confirmed rules.
How to Protect Yourself (Scam Alert)
Because this rebate rumor is active, scammers are exploiting it. Keep these rules in mind:
- CRA will never ask for personal or banking details through text, email, or social media.
- Emails or messages about a rebate from CRA should come from “@cra.gc.ca” addresses only.
- You don’t “apply” for a CRA rebate of this kind — if it exists, it is usually automatic based on tax filing.
- Be especially wary of links and forms on unverified websites claiming to give early access to the rebate.
If you see suspicious messages or offers, report them via CRA’s official channels.
How to Be Prepared (If It Happens)
If the government revives the rebate, here’s what you can do now to be ready:
- Ensure your CRA My Account is active and up‑to‑date.
- Confirm your direct deposit information is correct, so payments are seamless.
- File your 2024 tax return promptly and accurately.
- Monitor official CRA announcements (via Canada.ca or CRA portals).
- Be skeptical of any unsolicited messages claiming you’re eligible unless verified by CRA.
The idea of a $628 Grocery Rebate for October 2025 is stirring hope among many Canadians facing high food costs — but as of now, there is no confirmation from the CRA that such a program exists. The 2023 rebate was a one‑time measure tied to GST/HST Credit.
Beware of misleading messages, scams, and websites claiming to let you apply early. The best steps you can take now are to keep your tax filings and CRA account updated, monitor official announcements, and proceed cautiously.