The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will issue payments of up to $533 in October 2025 under the federal Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit program. The support, aimed at easing financial pressure on low- and modest-income households, will be delivered on October 5, 2025, according to the CRA’s official schedule.
The $533 amount represents the maximum annual benefit for a single individual under the current formula. While some commentators have referred to it as a “one-time support,” officials emphasize it is part of a recurring quarterly benefit, not a special new program.
CRA $533 One-Time Support in October 2025
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Maximum amount | $533 for eligible single individuals |
| Payment date | October 5, 2025 |
| Eligibility | Based on 2024 tax return and income thresholds |
| Official Website | CRA |
The next scheduled CRA GST/HST credit payment after October will fall on January 5, 2026. While the government has not announced any additional top-ups, advocacy groups are pressing Ottawa to expand benefits in future budgets to better match the rising cost of living.
What the $533 Payment Represents
The GST/HST credit is a long-standing federal program designed to offset sales taxes on goods and services for lower-income Canadians. It is issued quarterly and requires no separate application beyond filing an annual tax return.
For the 2024 base year — covering payments made between July 2025 and June 2026 — the CRA set the maximum benefit for single individuals at $533, with higher amounts available for couples and families with children.
“This program is automatic, straightforward, and targeted to those who need help most,” the CRA said in a recent statement.
A Brief History of the GST/HST Credit
The credit was introduced in 1991, when the federal government replaced the Manufacturer’s Sales Tax with the Goods and Services Tax (GST). To offset the new consumption tax, low- and middle-income Canadians began receiving quarterly rebates.
Over time, the credit has been indexed to inflation and adjusted through policy changes. Notably, Ottawa has occasionally added one-time supplements in response to economic crises, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and the “grocery rebate” in July 2023.
Who Is Eligible for the CRA $533 Payment?
Residency and Age Requirements
Canadians must be residents for tax purposes and at least 19 years old before the payment month. Exceptions apply for younger Canadians with spouses, children, or prior employment income.
Income Thresholds
Eligibility is income-tested and based on adjusted family net income reported in the 2024 tax return.
- Single individual: Maximum $533
- Married or common-law couple: Maximum $698
- Per child under 19: Additional supplement
Automatic Delivery
No separate application is required. If you filed a 2024 tax return, the CRA will automatically determine eligibility.
Payment Logistics: October 2025
The next quarterly GST/HST credit will be distributed on October 5, 2025. Payments are usually made by direct deposit into recipients’ bank accounts, while mailed cheques can take longer.
If the scheduled date falls on a weekend or holiday, funds are typically deposited on the next business day.
Clarifying Misconceptions
In recent weeks, several websites have promoted the idea of a “one-time $533 relief payment.” Economists caution against confusion.
“This is not a new cash transfer or emergency program,” said Laura Jones, an economist at the University of British Columbia. “The $533 figure represents the annual maximum credit for a single individual. It is delivered quarterly, including in October.”
The government has not announced any special one-off relief measures for October 2025.
The Real Value of $533
While the payment provides relief, analysts note it may not be enough to cover rising costs. Canada’s inflation rate has moderated since 2023, but housing, groceries, and energy remain expensive.
“The GST/HST credit is important, but it has not kept pace with the cost of living,” said Dr. Anya Sharma, a senior fellow at the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives. “For many households, it helps cover groceries for a week — not much more.”
A single individual in 2025 faces average monthly living costs of $2,200 to $2,800 in major cities, according to Statistics Canada.
Provincial and International Context
Although the GST/HST credit is a federal program, provinces offer their own targeted rebates. For example, Ontario provides the Trillium Benefit, while British Columbia distributes a Climate Action Tax Credit.
Globally, Canada’s credit resembles value-added tax (VAT) rebates in countries such as the United Kingdom, where low-income households receive partial refunds on consumption taxes.
Case Studies: Canadians Who Benefit
- Seniors on fixed incomes: For retired individuals living on Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), the quarterly credit supplements basic expenses.
- Single parents: A mother with two children could receive $533 plus child supplements, easing school supply costs.
- Students: Low-income post-secondary students benefit when part-time work keeps their income under the threshold.
How to Check Eligibility and Avoid Delays
Canadians can log into CRA’s My Account portal to confirm whether they qualify and see expected payment dates.
Delays can occur if:
- Tax returns are not filed on time.
- Direct deposit information is outdated.
- Personal circumstances (e.g., marital status or dependents) are not updated.
The CRA advises keeping all personal details current to prevent interruptions.
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FAQ
Do I need to apply for the $533 payment?
No. CRA automatically assesses eligibility based on your 2024 tax return.
Is it really a one-time payment?
No. The $533 represents the maximum annual amount for an individual, paid in four quarterly installments.
What if I didn’t file my tax return?
You must file your 2024 return to be considered for the October 2025 payment.
Can newcomers to Canada qualify?
Yes, if they are residents for tax purposes and meet income and age requirements.
