CRA Confirms GST/HST Credit Increase — Updated $179 Benefit Scheduled for 30th November Nationwide

Millions of Canadians will see a boost to their GST/HST credit this year, with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) confirming a new $179 maximum payment scheduled for release on 30 November. The updated amount reflects rising living costs and adjusted federal income thresholds. For many low- and moderate-income households, the increase offers timely relief ahead of winter expenses. In Regina, single mother Ashley Fournier said the boost means “a little less stress when stocking up on groceries for the holidays”.

The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment designed to offset sales tax costs for eligible individuals and families. The upcoming adjustment will be automatically applied, provided tax returns and direct deposit information are up to date.

What’s Changing on 30 November

• The maximum GST/HST credit for eligible adults will rise to approximately $179 for the November 2025 instalment.
• Families with children will also see increases to child-related credit amounts.
• Eligibility will continue to be based on 2024 income tax returns.
• Payments will be issued automatically by direct deposit or cheque.
• Canadians with overdue tax filings or outdated personal details may experience delays.

Real Stories Behind the Policy

For Edmonton grocery clerk Tyler MacNeil, the increase couldn’t come sooner. “Food prices just don’t stop climbing. Even $20 more helps me stretch things another week,” he said.

Retired couple Eleanor and Mark Peterson from Manitoba plan to use the boost toward winter heating. “When temperatures drop, our hydro bill jumps. Every extra dollar counts,” Mark said.

Government Statements

A CRA spokesperson said the increase follows federal indexation requirements. “GST/HST credits help Canadians manage essential expenses. The updated $179 payment reflects inflationary pressures and ensures the credit remains meaningful for low- and middle-income households,” they said.

The agency also encouraged Canadians to confirm their banking details and mailing addresses to avoid missing the November deposit.

Analysis and Data Insight

More than 11 million Canadians receive GST/HST credits. With inflation continuing to drive up household costs, analysts say even modest adjustments provide tangible relief for families with limited financial buffers.

Federal data shows that single adults, seniors and families with children benefit most, as these groups typically have higher consumption costs relative to income.

Comparison Table: GST/HST Credit Changes for 2025

Category	Previous Max	November 2025 Max	Notes
Single Adult	Approx. $164	Approx. $179	Based on inflation adjustments
Couple (Combined)	Approx. $316	Higher combined	Varies by income
Child Benefit Add-On	Approx. $86	Increased	Applies per child
Payment Frequency	Quarterly	Quarterly	No change
Payment Method	Direct deposit or cheque	Same	Ensure details are updated

What You Should Know

To ensure smooth payment processing, Canadians should:

• File their 2024 tax return if not already completed.
• Confirm banking information in CRA MyAccount.
• Check for CRA notices about eligibility or required documents.
• Remember that the payment may take up to five business days to appear.
• Track their credit schedule to anticipate future quarterly deposits.

Q&A Section

1. Who qualifies for the increased $179 GST/HST credit?
   Eligible adults who meet income thresholds based on 2024 tax returns.
2. Do families receive more?
   Yes, families receive additional credit amounts per child.
3. Is the credit taxable?
   No, it is tax-free.
4. When will the payment arrive?
   Payments begin rolling out on 30 November.
5. Do I need to apply?
   No application is required; eligibility is determined automatically.
6. What if I haven’t filed my tax return yet?
   You must file to be assessed for the credit.
7. Can the payment be delayed?
   Yes, outdated banking or mailing information can cause delays.
8. How do I check my payment amount?
   Log in to CRA MyAccount for updated benefit information.
9. Will this affect other benefits?
   No, GST/HST credits do not reduce OAS, GIS or CPP payments.
10. Do students qualify?
    Yes, depending on income.
11. Do seniors qualify?
    Many seniors with low-to-moderate income qualify.
12. Can couples split the credit?
    No, it is issued to one spouse or common-law partner.
13. What happens if I move?
    Update your address to avoid mailed cheques being lost.
14. Can the credit be garnished?
    In some cases, CRA may apply the credit toward certain debts.
15. Will the amount rise again next year?
    Yes, GST/HST credits are indexed annually.