CRA Confirms Canada Grocery Rebate Up to $628 – Eligibility, Payment Date and Amounts Explained

As grocery prices continue to rise, the Government of Canada is stepping in to provide direct financial relief. Eligible Canadians will receive a one-time, tax-free grocery rebate of up to \$628 in September 2025. This measure is designed to help low- and modest-income households manage the growing cost of food and daily essentials.

The rebate will be issued automatically to qualifying Canadians, linked directly to the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit. No separate application is required.

What Is the Canada Grocery Rebate?

The Canada Grocery Rebate is a targeted support program meant to reduce the impact of inflation-driven food costs. It functions as a top-up payment to the GST/HST credit, ensuring the money goes directly to those most in need.

Unlike general subsidies, this rebate is income-tested and automatically distributed based on the 2024 tax return, ensuring fairness and efficiency.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the rebate, you must:

• Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes as of September 1, 2025.
• Have filed your 2024 income tax return on time.
• Be eligible for the GST/HST credit, determined by your adjusted family net income.

Eligibility categories include:

• Single adults with annual income under \$49,166.
• Couples or common-law partners with combined income under \$58,000.
• Families with children under 18 years old.
• Seniors receiving GIS (Guaranteed Income Supplement).

Provincial or territorial top-ups may slightly adjust thresholds in specific regions.

Estimated Rebate Amounts

The rebate is tailored to household size and income level. Here are the projected amounts for September 2025:

Household Type	Estimated Rebate
Single (no children)	Up to \$234
Couple (no children)	Up to \$306
Single parent with 1 child	Up to \$387
Couple with 2 children	Up to \$456
Couple with 3 children	Up to \$548
Couple with 4 children	Up to \$628
Senior living alone (GIS)	Approx. \$225

Amounts are calculated using the 2024 tax return and adjusted family net income.

Payment Date & Method

• Payment Date: Friday, September 20, 2025.
• Payment Methods:
• Direct Deposit – The fastest way to receive funds, deposited into the account linked with your tax return or government benefits.
• Paper Cheque – May take up to 10 business days to arrive.

To avoid delays, Canadians are encouraged to set up or confirm direct deposit through their CRA My Account.

How to Check Eligibility and Payment Status

You can confirm your rebate status through the CRA portal:

• Log in to CRA My Account.
• Go to “Benefits and Credits.”
• Look for the entry “Canada Grocery Rebate – September 2025.”

If you don’t receive the payment by the scheduled date, contact the CRA directly for assistance.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• File taxes on time: Your 2024 tax return determines eligibility.
• Set up direct deposit: Ensures faster, secure payment.
• Update your details: Banking and mailing addresses must be current.
• Activate CRA My Account: Allows you to track eligibility, amounts, and payment status.

Why the Grocery Rebate Matters

With food prices at record highs, this one-time rebate provides meaningful relief. It is particularly valuable for families with children, low-income seniors, and single parents, who face the hardest financial pressure.

The rebate also complements other programs like:

• The GST/HST credit.
• The Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
• The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB).

By combining these supports, the government aims to improve affordability for vulnerable Canadians.

Key Takeaways

• No application required – Automatic for GST/HST credit recipients.
• Payment date – September 20, 2025.
• Payment method – Direct deposit or cheque.
• Check eligibility – Via CRA My Account.
• Maximum amount – Up to \$628 for qualifying households.

FAQs on Canada Grocery Rebate September 2025

Q1: Do I need to apply for the grocery rebate?
A1: No. The rebate is automatic if you qualify for the GST/HST credit.

Q2: When will I receive the payment?
A2: The rebate will be issued on September 20, 2025.

Q3: How much will I get from the rebate?
A3: The maximum is \$628, but actual amounts depend on income, marital status, and number of children.

Q4: How will the payment be delivered?
A4: Through direct deposit (fastest) or paper cheque (may take up to 10 business days).

Q5: What if I don’t get my rebate by the due date?
A5: Log into CRA My Account to check your status or contact the CRA directly for support.