The Government of Canada has confirmed that a $680 one-time relief payment will be delivered in September 2025, providing much-needed support to households facing rising living costs. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this tax-free payment will be automatically issued to eligible Canadians without requiring a separate application.
With inflation, grocery bills, housing costs, and energy prices putting increasing pressure on families and seniors, this relief measure is intended to give lower- and modest-income households additional breathing room. But questions remain: Who is eligible? When will the payment arrive? Will it affect other federal benefits?
This article answers all of these questions and provides a clear breakdown of what Canadians can expect from the $680 CRA one-time payment.
What Is the $680 CRA One-Time Payment?
The $680 one-time relief is a temporary support measure introduced to offset the impact of inflation on Canadians in 2025.
- It is tax-free.
- It will be deposited directly by the CRA.
- It is designed to help low- and modest-income families and seniors.
Unlike regular federal programs such as Old Age Security (OAS) or Canada Child Benefit (CCB), this is not a recurring payment. Instead, it is a single financial top-up intended to provide short-term assistance.
Eligibility Criteria for the $680 Payment
Eligibility is tied to 2024 tax returns and family net income.
General Requirements
- You must have filed your 2024 income tax return.
- You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes as of September 2025.
- Your family net income must fall below the income thresholds defined for the 2025 benefit year.
Seniors and Retirees
Seniors receiving OAS, GIS, or CPP are not excluded. If their household income meets CRA’s low- or modest-income thresholds, they will qualify. This includes retirees living primarily on fixed pension incomes.
How the CRA Calculates the $680 Relief
The CRA calculates the exact amount based on:
- Family size – Singles, couples, and families with children may receive different amounts.
- Net income – Payments are reduced as income rises. High-income households will not qualify.
The maximum benefit is $680, but lower amounts may apply depending on household earnings.
Payment Dates and Method
The CRA has confirmed that the $680 payment will be issued in mid-to-late September 2025.
- Direct Deposit:
Those registered for CRA direct deposit will receive funds in their bank account within a few days of the payment date. - Mailed Cheques:
Canadians without direct deposit will receive a paper cheque mailed to their registered address. Delivery may take up to 15–20 days. - No Application Needed:
Payments are automatic if you meet eligibility criteria—no separate form or request is required.
Impact on Other Federal Benefits
The $680 relief is non-taxable and will not affect any other benefits you receive. It will not reduce or interfere with:
- Old Age Security (OAS)
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- GST/HST Credit
This ensures that seniors, families, and low-income workers receive the payment on top of their existing benefits.
Why the Government Introduced the $680 Relief
The government’s decision comes as Canadians face ongoing financial challenges:
- Grocery prices continue to rise.
- Energy and fuel costs have surged.
- Housing affordability remains a national concern.
- Seniors and low-income families are especially vulnerable to inflationary pressures.
By targeting low- and modest-income households, the $680 payment provides direct support to those most in need, helping cover essentials like food, rent, transportation, and medical costs.
What Seniors and Retirees Should Do
To ensure smooth payment processing, seniors and retirees should:
- File their 2024 tax return promptly to confirm eligibility.
- Sign up for CRA direct deposit for faster, secure payment.
- Update personal information (address, phone, or bank details) on CRA’s portal to avoid delays.
This preparation will ensure that the $680 relief is received on time in September.
Key Takeaways
- The CRA $680 one-time payment will be issued in September 2025.
- It is automatic, tax-free, and non-taxable.
- Seniors and retirees may qualify if their income meets thresholds.
- It will not affect other federal benefits such as OAS, GIS, CPP, CCB, or GST/HST credits.
- Canadians should file taxes and update CRA details to receive the payment without delays.
FAQs – $680 CRA One-Time Relief Payment 2025
Q1: Who qualifies for the $680 CRA one-time payment in September 2025?
All Canadians who filed their 2024 tax return, are residents for tax purposes, and have household incomes below CRA thresholds may qualify. Seniors are included if they meet these rules.
Q2: Do I need to apply for the CRA $680 payment?
No. The payment is automatic for eligible individuals based on 2024 tax return data.
Q3: When will the $680 CRA payment be deposited?
Direct deposits and cheques will be issued in mid-to-late September 2025. Direct deposits arrive faster, while mailed cheques may take longer.
Q4: Will the $680 payment reduce OAS, GIS, or CPP benefits?
No. The $680 relief is non-taxable and does not affect other federal benefits.
Q5: How can I check the status of my $680 payment?
You can log in to your CRA My Account and check under the “Benefits and Credits” section. Updates will also be posted on canada.ca.