The GST/HST credit is a tax‑free quarterly payment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) aimed at helping Canadians with low to modest incomes offset the cost of Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).
You do not need to submit a separate application each time — eligibility is typically determined based on your annual tax return.
For the 2024 income year (covering payments from July 2025 to June 2026), the maximum amounts are:
- $533 for a single individual
- $698 for someone with a spouse or common-law partner
- $184 additional per child under 19 years of age
These amounts are divided across four quarterly payments.
October 2025 Payment Date & Schedule
Here’s when the CRA issues GST/HST credit payments in 2025:
| Payment Cycle | Scheduled Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1st payment (2025) | January 3, 2025 | For period Jan–Mar 2025 |
| 2nd payment | April 4, 2025 | For Apr–Jun 2025 |
| 3rd payment | July 4, 2025 | For Jul–Sep 2025 |
| 4th / October payment | October 3, 2025 | For Oct–Dec 2025 period |
So, if you qualify, your October 3, 2025 deposit will reflect that quarter’s GST/HST credit payment.
If October 3 falls on a weekend or statutory holiday, the payment is typically made on the last business day before that date.
How Much Could You Receive in October?
The $698 figure often quoted refers to the maximum annual amount for someone married or having a common-law partner.
The quarterly payment you receive is a fraction of that, depending on your income, marital status, and number of children.
For instance:
- A married or common-law couple might get up to $698 ÷ 4 = $174.50 (before adjustments)
- A single individual’s maximum of $533 annual would be split across 4 payments
- Each eligible child under 19 adds $184/year, also split across quarters
However, most recipients will receive less than the maximum, because the benefit is gradually reduced (or phased out) as adjusted family net income rises.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Qualifies?
To receive the GST/HST credit, you must meet the following requirements:
- Residency: Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes before and at the start of the payment month.
- Age: Must be at least 19 years old at that time. If under 19, you may qualify if you have (or had) a spouse, or are a parent living with a child.
- Tax Filing: You must have filed your 2024 tax return (or applicable year) — even if you had no income — so the CRA can assess your eligibility.
- Income Limits: Your adjusted family net income must not exceed certain thresholds (which shift with inflation).
You are automatically considered for the credit when you file your tax return—no separate application is needed.
If you’re a newcomer, you might need to complete specific forms (e.g. Form RC151 or RC66) to establish eligibility.
How to Claim / Ensure You Get It
- File your 2024 tax return on time, even if your income is zero.
- Ensure your CRA My Account has your correct banking information for direct deposit.
- Keep your personal information updated (marital status, dependents, address).
- If you move or your situation changes, notify CRA promptly so your benefit is accurate.
- Check in CRA My Account to see your GST/HST credit “Notice of Determination” and upcoming payment dates.
If your credit is small (i.e. quarterly payment below a threshold), CRA may opt to issue the full remaining amount in one lump sum to simplify funding.
Things to Keep in Mind
- The $698 amount is an annual maximum for couples, not a single‑payment amount.
- The actual quarterly payout will likely be lower after income phase‑outs.
- If your tax return is late or adjustments are made afterward, your GST/HST credit could be delayed or recalculated.
- If you don’t receive the payment on October 3, wait 10 business days before contacting CRA.
- The credit is non-taxable, so it won’t be added to your taxable income.
If you qualify, the October 3, 2025 GST/HST credit payment is your next quarterly opportunity to receive financial support from the CRA. While many social media posts cite $698, remember this is a maximum annual amount for couples, not a single‑payment figure.
Your actual payment in October depends on your adjusted income, marital status, and number of children.
FAQs
Is the $698 the amount I will receive in October 2025?
Not exactly. $698 is the maximum annual amount for someone with a spouse or partner, divided across four quarterly payments. You will get a portion of that in October (often ~$174.50) depending on your income and family situation.
Do I need to apply separately to get this credit?
No. The CRA determines eligibility automatically when you file your tax return. For new residents, certain forms (RC151, RC66) may need to be submitted initially.
What happens if I file my tax return late?
Your GST/HST credit may be delayed, reduced, or potentially missed for the October installment. Filing on time ensures CRA can assess you and issue the payment.