To ease the burden of rising costs, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is rolling out a $680 one-time, tax-free payment in 2025. This direct relief is aimed at low- and middle-income Canadians, seniors, and those already receiving qualifying federal benefits.
The good news: no special application is needed — the CRA will automatically distribute the funds on October 25, 2025, either via direct deposit or mailed cheque.
Program Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $680, tax-exempt |
| Date of Payment | October 25, 2025 |
| Delivery Mode | Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
| Eligible Recipients | Low- & middle-income individuals, OAS/GIS seniors, CCB and GST/HST beneficiaries |
| Application Needed? | No — automatically issued if tax return is filed and information is up to date |
| Official Source | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
What Is the $680 CRA Relief Payment?
The $680 payment is a temporary financial support measure introduced in 2025 to help Canadians cope with inflation on essentials like food, housing, and transportation. By providing direct assistance to those most vulnerable, the program helps alleviate short-term financial strain.
You don’t need to apply or take any action — if your 2024 income tax return is filed and your CRA account has accurate banking and address details, you will receive this payment automatically.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for the CRA’s $680 payment if you fit one or more of these categories:
- You earn a low or middle income, based on CRA thresholds.
- You receive Old Age Security (OAS) or the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) as a senior.
- You are a beneficiary of the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
- You receive the GST/HST credit.
Important: Filing your 2024 tax return is essential — without it, the CRA cannot determine your eligibility or issue the payment.
Payment Schedule & How It’s Delivered
The CRA will distribute the funds using information on file from your latest tax return:
- Direct Deposit: Funds should hit your bank account around October 25, 2025.
- Mailed Cheque: If you’re not enrolled in direct deposit, expect a cheque mailed shortly afterward (timing depends on postal delivery).
This payment is timed to help Canadians manage seasonal and year-end expenses.
Complementary 2025 Benefits
The $680 relief payment is part of a broader suite of federal programs designed to bolster financial security. Here’s how it connects:
| Program | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Up to $7,787/year for children under 6; $6,570 for ages 6–17 |
| GST/HST Credit | Quarterly payments to offset sales tax costs |
| Old Age Security (OAS) & Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | Monthly income support for seniors |
| Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) | Tax credit for low-income workers |
| Canadian Dental Care Plan | Free or reduced-cost dental care for households earning under $90,000 |
| School Supplies Supplement | $124 per eligible child to assist with back-to-school costs |
These programs, together with the new payment, form a network of supports for Canadians in need.
Impact of the $680 Payment
For families: It can ease grocery bills, utility payments, or help prevent reliance on credit.
For seniors: It supports medical prescriptions or everyday household costs without affecting monthly income.
For workers & individuals: It brings breathing room ahead of fall expenses like school supplies or heating costs.
While $680 is modest, when targeted well it can make a meaningful difference in stability and peace of mind during challenging times.
How to Make Sure You Get the Payment
- File your 2024 tax return before deadlines.
- Verify and update your CRA account — ensure your address and banking info are accurate.
- Confirm your benefit status (CCB, GST/HST, OAS, etc.).
- Expect payment by October 25, 2025, by either direct deposit or mailed cheque.
- Use the funds prudently — prioritize essentials and consider building a small savings buffer.
Smart Uses for the $680 Relief
- Pay down overdue utility or rent bills
- Stock an emergency fund
- Purchase groceries, medicines, or essential items
- Avoid unnecessary indulgences; use this as short-term financial relief
Safeguard Against Scams
Whenever new government payments are announced, scammers may try to exploit the situation. Keep in mind:
- The CRA will never ask for personal or banking information via phone, email, or text.
- You do not have to pay any fee to receive this benefit.
- Always verify via official channels — e.g. www.canada.ca or your CRA My Account.
The $680 one-time tax-free payment from the Canada Revenue Agency in 2025 offers crucial support to low- and middle-income Canadians, seniors, and benefit recipients amid rising costs. Automatically disbursed on October 25, 2025, this relief requires no application — only that your 2024 taxes are filed and your banking/address information is up to date.
By combining this payment with existing supports like the CCB, GST/HST credit, and OAS/GIS, the federal government seeks to ease financial burdens and bolster stability. Use the funds wisely, remain alert to scams, and rest assured the system is designed to reach those who need it most.
FAQs
Do I need to apply to receive the $680 CRA payment?
No — the payment is issued automatically, provided you file your 2024 tax return and your CRA account has correct contact and banking details.
What if I don’t use direct deposit — can I still get the payment?
Yes — if you’re not enrolled in direct deposit, the CRA will send a cheque by mail after October 25, 2025.
I didn’t file my 2024 taxes. Can I still get the payment later?
Unfortunately, no. Filing your 2024 income tax return is mandatory to establish eligibility and trigger the payment.