This program is thoughtfully designed to offer relief to individuals and families with low to modest incomes by refunding a portion of the sales tax they pay. With the next payment date in October 2025, many are looking to see if they are eligible for the $698 GST/HST Tax Credit October 2025. For some families, this upcoming $698 GST/HST Tax Credit October 2025 could provide a much-needed financial boost. The forthcoming GST/HST refund, set for early October, represents one of four quarterly payments distributed throughout the year to help households better manage their finances. This non-taxable benefit is automatically calculated for all individuals who file their annual income tax returns. For countless families, this credit is not just a rebate; it is a critical part of their monthly budget, helping to cover daily necessities like groceries and transportation. Understanding the eligibility rules and payment schedule is the first and most important step for Canadians to ensure they receive the full financial support they are entitled to from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
The $698 GST/HST Tax Credit October 2025 is a key part of Canada’s social support system, aimed at making life more affordable. This payment recognizes that sales taxes can disproportionately affect those with lower incomes. By providing this quarterly refund, the government helps balance the scales, ensuring that everyone can better manage their essential expenses. Being informed about this credit allows you to plan your finances more effectively and take full advantage of the benefits available to you. Understanding the details of the $698 GST/HST Tax Credit October 2025 is crucial for eligible individuals and families looking to maximize their financial resources and navigate rising costs.
$698 GST/HST Tax Credit October 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit |
| Issuing Agency | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Purpose | To provide a tax-free payment to help offset the sales tax paid by low- and modest-income individuals and families. |
| Next Payment Date | October 3, 2025 |
| Eligibility Criteria | Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes and at least 19 years old. Individuals under 19 may qualify if they have a spouse, common-law partner, or are a parent. Eligibility is also based on adjusted family net income. |
| Maximum Annual Amounts | Up to $698 for married or common-law couples, $533 for single individuals, and an additional $184 per child under 19. |
| Application Process | No separate application is needed. Eligibility is automatically determined when you file your annual income tax return. |
What is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a non-taxable financial benefit paid by the Canadian government to individuals and families with low and modest incomes to help them manage the impact of the sales tax they pay. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this credit is distributed four times a year and is designed to return some of the Goods and Services Tax or Harmonized Sales Tax paid on consumer goods. The core idea is to make everyday life more affordable for those who need it most. The payment amounts are reviewed and sometimes increased to account for inflation, with a 2.7% increase scheduled to begin in July 2025, ensuring the support keeps pace with the economy. The $698 GST/HST Tax Credit October 2025 is part of this ongoing effort.
Who is Eligible for the GST/HST Credit?
- To be eligible for the GST/HST credit, you must first be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes. The primary applicant must also be at least 19 years old in the month before the CRA issues a payment. There are exceptions to the age rule; for example, if you are under 19 but have a spouse or common-law partner, or if you are a parent and live with your child, you could still qualify.
- Your eligibility and payment amount are directly linked to your adjusted family net income from the previous year’s tax return. For the benefit year of July 2025 to June 2026, your 2024 tax return will be used for the calculation. Income thresholds are in place to ensure the credit goes to those with low to modest incomes. For example, a single person whose income is $52,255 or higher will likely not receive the credit, and a married couple with four children would need an annual net income below $69,015 to qualify. Certain individuals, such as diplomats from other countries, non-residents for tax purposes, or individuals confined to a prison for 90 days or more, are not eligible.
How to Get the GST/HST Credit
- One of the best features of the GST/HST credit is its simplicity. You do not need to fill out a separate application to receive it. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) automatically determines if you are eligible when you file your annual income tax return. This is why it is so important to file your taxes every year, even if you have no income to report. By filing, you are automatically considered for the $698 GST/HST Tax Credit October 2025 and other related benefits.
- If you are a new resident of Canada, you will need to take an extra step. You can apply for the credit by completing and submitting Form RC151, GST/HST Credit and Canada Carbon Rebate Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada. For all applicants, having a Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a requirement for both you and your spouse or partner, if applicable. If you have a valid reason for not having a SIN, you may be able to provide alternative identification to the CRA.
How Much Can You Expect to Receive?
The amount of money you receive from the GST/HST credit is tailored to your specific household situation. The CRA calculates it based on your adjusted family net income, your marital status (single, married, or common-law), and the number of children under 19 that you have registered. For the benefit period from July 2025 to June 2026, the maximum annual payment amounts you could receive are:
- $698 if you are married or have a common-law partner.
- $533 if you are single.
- $184 for each child under the age of 19.
This annual total is then divided into four equal quarterly payments. If you want a more precise figure, the CRA offers an online “Child and family benefits calculator” that can give you a personalized estimate based on your details. This can help you budget for the upcoming $698 GST/HST Tax Credit October 2025 payment.
GST/HST Payment Dates for 2025
The GST/HST credit payments are reliably issued four times a year. The CRA sends them out on the fifth day of January, April, July, and October. However, if that date happens to land on a weekend or a federal holiday, the payment is made on the last business day before the fifth.
For 2025, you can mark your calendar for the following payment dates:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
It’s also worth noting that if your total credit for the year is small (less than $50 per quarter), the CRA will issue the entire amount in one lump-sum payment in July. This simplifies the process for those receiving smaller benefit amounts.
Related Provincial and Territorial Programs
In addition to the federal GST/HST credit, many provinces and territories offer their own similar programs to provide further financial support. These programs are often administered by the CRA and conveniently combined with your federal payment. This means that if you are eligible for the federal credit, you are automatically considered for your region’s benefit without any extra paperwork. The main exception is the Ontario Sales Tax Credit, which is delivered separately as part of the broader Ontario Trillium Benefit.
Some of these related programs include:
- BC Climate Action Tax Credit
- New Brunswick Harmonized Sales Tax Credit
- Newfoundland and Labrador Income Supplement and Seniors’ Benefit
- Northwest Territories Cost of Living Offset
- Nova Scotia Affordable Living Tax Credit
- Prince Edward Island Sales Tax Credit
- Saskatchewan Low-Income Tax Credit
- Yukon Government Carbon Price Rebate
These provincial and territorial credits are tailored to the needs of their residents and provide another layer of support on top of the federal GST/HST credit, including the $698 GST/HST Tax Credit October 2025.
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FAQs on $698 GST/HST Tax Credit October 2025
1. Is the GST/HST credit taxable?
No, the GST/HST credit is entirely tax-free. You do not have to report it as income on your tax return. It is a benefit designed to help with expenses, not add to your tax burden.
2. What should I do if I didn’t receive my payment?
If you were expecting a payment and did not receive it on the scheduled date, you should wait 10 business days before contacting the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Sometimes there can be delays in the mail. You can also check your CRA My Account online to confirm if a payment was issued.
3. Can I receive the GST/HST credit if I am a student?
Yes, being a student does not disqualify you from receiving the GST/HST credit. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria—being a Canadian resident, 19 years or older, and falling within the income thresholds—you can receive the credit. Remember to file your tax return, even if you only have tuition credits to report.
4. What happens if I forgot to file my taxes last year?
To receive the GST/HST credit, you must file a tax return for the relevant year. If you forgot, you could still file a late return. The CRA may pay you retroactively for the months you were eligible, for up to 10 years in the past. It’s always best to file as soon as possible to ensure you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to.
5. How do I update my personal information for the GST/HST credit?
It is important to keep your information with the CRA up to date. This includes your address, marital status, and the number of children in your care. Changes can affect your eligibility and payment amount. The easiest way to update your information is through your CRA My Account online portal, or by calling the CRA directly.
