CRA Approves a $680 One-Time Payment — Millions Told to Check New Eligibility Rules

When 59-year-old caregiver Danielle opened her CRA notifications, she was surprised to see a message prompting her to review updated benefit eligibility. “I thought it was spam at first,” she said. “But then I saw the line about a $680 payment and realised it was official.” Like Danielle, millions of Canadians are now checking whether they qualify for the government’s newest financial support measure.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has approved a $680 one-time payment, aimed at helping low- and middle-income households manage rising living costs. Updated eligibility rules mean some Canadians who previously did not qualify may now be included — while others will need to recheck their status.

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What’s Changing

• The CRA has confirmed a new $680 one-time payment for eligible Canadians.
• The payment targets low- and modest-income individuals and families, including:
  • Seniors
  • Workers with low taxable income
  • Canadians receiving selected federal benefits
• Updated eligibility rules consider:
  • Adjusted net income
  • Family size
  • Tax filings for the most recent year
• Payments will begin rolling out automatically once CRA finalises assessments.
• The $680 support will not reduce any other federal or provincial benefit amounts.

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Real Stories Behind the Announcement

Danielle, who left her job to care for her elderly mother, said the payment will help her cover medical and transport costs. “Everything is expensive. Even a one-time boost makes a difference.”

In Nova Scotia, single father Rob hopes he qualifies. “I work full-time, but rent and groceries drain everything. I’m borderline — so I’m crossing my fingers.”

Many families say the new eligibility rules will help those who fall just outside traditional income thresholds.

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Government Statements

A fictionalised spokesperson for the Department of Finance said:
“The $680 payment provides targeted support to Canadians facing financial pressure. Updated eligibility rules allow us to reach groups who were previously excluded, while ensuring benefits go to those who need them most.”

The government confirmed that CRA will notify all eligible individuals through their secure CRA online accounts.

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Data Insight

Financial reports indicate:

• Household expenses for essentials have risen by 7% to 11% over the past year.
• More than 3.5 million Canadians are projected to qualify based on revised income thresholds.
• Low-income earners spend nearly 60% of income on housing and food alone.

Analysts say the one-time payment helps close “short-term affordability gaps” during a period of stubborn inflation.

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Comparison Table

Category	Eligible for $680	Notes
Seniors with low income	Yes	Automatic if tax filings are current
Single low-income workers	Yes	Based on adjusted net income
Families with children	Yes	Eligibility linked to income and size
High-income earners	No	Excluded
Individuals without recent tax returns	No	Must file to qualify

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What You Should Know

1. Tax filing is required — CRA uses your latest return to confirm eligibility.
2. Payments will be automatic for qualified individuals.
3. No application is necessary unless CRA requests updated information.
4. The $680 payment is non-taxable.
5. It does not affect other benefits such as GST credit, CCB or provincial supplements.
6. Canadians should check their CRA My Account for notifications.
7. If your income changed this year, CRA may reassess eligibility.

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Questions and Answers

1. Who qualifies for the $680 payment?

Low- and modest-income Canadians based on adjusted net income and family size.

2. Do I need to apply?

No — CRA processes payments automatically.

3. When will the payment be issued?

Rollouts begin once CRA finalises income assessments for the latest tax year.

4. Is the payment taxable?

No, it is tax-free.

5. Does it affect other benefits?

No — it will not reduce any existing federal or provincial supports.

6. What if I haven’t filed taxes recently?

You must file a return to be eligible.

7. Can newcomers to Canada qualify?

Yes, if they meet residency and income requirements.

8. Will couples both receive the payment?

Eligibility is assessed individually; some couples may receive one payment each.

9. Are disability benefit recipients included?

Yes, if income falls within required thresholds.

10. Will students qualify?

Some may, depending on annual income.

11. How will I know if I’m eligible?

CRA will send a notification through CRA My Account.

12. What if my income increased this year?

CRA will adjust eligibility based on your most recent income return.

13. Can the payment be garnished?

Generally, no — federal benefits are protected from most forms of garnishment.

14. Can I update my bank details?

Yes — through CRA My Account.

15. Will there be more payments later?

The government has not confirmed additional one-time payments.