Canadians eligible for the GST/HST credit will receive their October 3, 2025 payment, according to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The quarterly, tax-free credit helps low- and modest-income households offset part of the sales taxes they pay. Although some media outlets cite a $496 figure, the actual amount varies based on income and family circumstances.
Table of Contents
$496 GST/HST Credit for October 2025
| Key Fact | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Payment Date | October 3, 2025 | Canada.ca Benefits Calendar |
| Credit Frequency | Quarterly: January, April, July, and October | CRA Benefit Payment Dates |
| Eligibility Criteria | Based on income, age (19+), residency, and family status | CRA GST/HST Credit Eligibility |
| $496 Amount | Estimated average for eligible single filers or couples with one child | CRA calculation examples (2024 base year) |
Understanding the GST/HST Credit
The Goods and Services Tax / Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit is a non-taxable quarterly payment designed to ease the financial burden of consumption taxes. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency, the credit is automatically calculated when Canadians file their annual income tax return — no separate application is typically required.
According to CRA documentation, the credit aims to “ensure the GST/HST does not disproportionately impact low- and modest-income households.” It is part of the federal government’s suite of affordability measures, alongside the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and Canada Workers Benefit (CWB).
October 2025 Payment Schedule
The CRA will issue GST/HST credit payments on the following 2025 dates:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
If the 5th of a month falls on a weekend or public holiday, the payment is moved to the preceding business day. Canadians enrolled in direct deposit will typically receive the funds on the same date. Those receiving cheques should allow up to 10 business days for delivery.
Why $496 Is Not a Universal Amount
The figure of $496 circulating in online discussions refers to an approximate average, not a fixed entitlement. The CRA calculates each individual’s GST/HST credit based on several factors:
- Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) – The lower your income, the higher your potential credit.
- Marital Status – Whether you have a spouse or common-law partner.
- Number of Eligible Children – Each child under 19 can increase your payment.
For the 2024 base year, which determines payments from July 2025 to June 2026, the maximum credit amounts are estimated at:
- $533 for a single adult
- $698 for a married or common-law couple
- $184 per eligible child under 19
These figures, from CRA’s benefit tables, are indexed to inflation annually.
“A household receiving around $496 likely falls within a moderate income range or has one dependent,” said Dr. Leah MacDonald, professor of public finance at the University of Ottawa. “Such benefits help sustain purchasing power among lower-income Canadians as inflation continues to erode real wages.”
Who Qualifies for the October 2025 GST/HST Credit
To qualify, you must:
- Be 19 years or older (or meet exceptions for parents or married individuals).
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes before and during the payment month.
- Have filed your 2024 tax return, even if you earned no income.
Income Thresholds
Eligibility phases out as income rises. For example:
- A single individual without children becomes ineligible at an AFNI above $56,181.
- Families with children qualify at higher income thresholds.
If you are new to Canada, you must complete Form RC151 to apply for the credit. (CRA RC151 Form)
How and When the CRA Pays
- Method: Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure option. Cheques are mailed if no bank information is on file.
- Processing: Payments appear as “Canada FPT” on bank statements, which may include other federal or provincial benefits.
- Recalculations: The CRA may issue a redetermination notice if your income or marital status changes, or if your tax return is reassessed.
If your payment has not arrived by October 17, 2025, the CRA advises contacting their support line after checking your My Account portal.
Regional Variations: Provincial Top-Ups
Several provinces and territories have programs that align with or supplement the federal GST/HST credit:
- Ontario: The Ontario Sales Tax Credit provides up to $345 annually for low-income residents.
- British Columbia: The BC Family Benefit adds up to $133 per adult monthly, with amounts adjusted for income.
- Newfoundland and Labrador: Offers a Harmonized Sales Tax Credit automatically combined with the federal GST/HST credit.
These provincial credits are typically bundled with CRA payments, meaning eligible residents receive one combined deposit.
Economic Context: Why the Credit Matters
With inflation stabilizing near 2.8% and household debt at record highs, such credits serve as minor but consistent relief.
According to the Bank of Canada, rising food and housing costs continue to strain lower-income households.
“For families near the poverty line, quarterly credits like the GST/HST make a tangible difference — often covering utilities or groceries for a week,” noted Kevin Singh, senior economist at the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives.
The credit is particularly valuable for seniors and students, two groups with lower disposable income and limited access to other benefits.
Example Scenario: How $496 Credit Might Apply
- Case 1: A single parent earning $38,000 with one child could receive roughly $490–$520 per quarter.
- Case 2: A single adult earning $32,000 might receive $420–$450.
- Case 3: A couple with two children earning a combined $45,000 could receive $600 or more.
These examples are illustrative; CRA uses precise income and inflation-adjusted tables for each tax year.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your Credit
- Wait 10 business days after the payment date.
- Check your CRA My Account for payment status and benefit eligibility.
- Confirm direct deposit details with your financial institution.
- Ensure your 2024 tax return was properly filed and processed.
- Contact CRA at 1-800-387-1193 if unresolved.
Related Links
Carney’s Game-Changing Tax Filing Announcement Will Affect Millions of Canadians: Check DEtails
CRA Benefits Payment Dates for October 2025: Check OTB, CPP, GST, OAS & CAIP Amount & Eligibility
Cautions Against Misinformation
The CRA warns against fraudulent messages claiming special “GST/HST bonus credits” or “top-up payments.”
Such scams often mimic official communication and request banking details.
“We never ask for personal or financial information by text or email,” the CRA emphasized in its March 2025 fraud bulletin. “Always verify benefit updates through your CRA account or Canada.ca.”
Forward-Looking Perspective
The GST/HST credit remains a pillar of Canada’s federal affordability programs. While modest in scale, it provides steady support for millions. Future enhancements could appear in the 2026 federal budget, where policymakers are expected to assess the need for increased payments tied to inflation and cost-of-living pressures.
