In recent weeks, social media, local news, and community discussions have been filled with claims that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will issue a $2,600 direct deposit to Canadians in September 2025. While the figure has captured attention, the reality is more complex.
The CRA has not officially announced a universal $2,600 payment. Instead, this amount is likely the result of combined government benefits—such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST credit, Old Age Security (OAS), and Canada Pension Plan (CPP)—being deposited around the same time.
Understanding the Buzz Around CRA $2,600 Direct Deposit

The CRA manages both tax collection and benefit distribution. Each year, billions are paid out in refunds, credits, and benefits. The $2,600 number appears to come from households that receive multiple payments in September, rather than a new federal program.
For example, a parent receiving both CCB and GST/HST credits in the same month could see deposits adding up to around $2,600. However, this is not guaranteed for all Canadians.
How CRA Direct Deposits Work
The CRA uses direct deposit to distribute a variety of payments, including:
- Tax refunds
- GST/HST credits (quarterly)
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) (monthly)
- Old Age Security (OAS) (monthly)
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP) (monthly)
- Provincial/territorial benefits (such as Ontario Trillium Benefit or BC Climate Action Credit)
If you’re signed up for direct deposit, payments go directly to your bank account. Otherwise, CRA mails cheques, which take longer.
CRA Confirmed Payment Dates in 2025
The CRA has already published payment schedules for its major programs:
- GST/HST Credit 2025: January 3, April 4, July 4, October 3
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB): 20th of each month (September 19, 2025)
- OAS/CPP: Last three business days of each month
This means multiple payments can overlap in September 2025, creating totals that might look like the rumored $2,600 deposit.
Step-by-Step: How to Check If You’ll Get $2,600
If you’re unsure whether this figure applies to you, follow these steps:
Step 1: Log into CRA My Account
Check your Upcoming Payments section for details.
Step 2: Confirm Your Eligibility
Ensure your 2024 tax return is filed—most benefits depend on it.
Step 3: Verify Banking Information
Outdated accounts can lead to delayed or missed deposits.
Step 4: Compare With CRA Payment Calendar
Match your benefits (CCB, GST/HST, OAS, CPP) against CRA’s scheduled dates.
Step 5: Stay Alert for Scams
CRA never requests payments via gift cards, PayPal, or e-transfer. Fraudulent messages should be reported immediately.
Example Case: How Deposits Add Up
Take Sarah, a single mother of two earning $35,000 a year:
- CCB (September 2025): Around $1,000
- GST/HST Credit (Quarterly): Around $400
- Possible OAS for her mother if shared account: Around $1,200
When deposited together, these could total $2,600. But someone else, like James, a 25-year-old single worker earning $60,000, may only receive a small GST/HST credit—or nothing at all.
Why Filing Taxes Matters
Your tax return is the key to unlocking CRA benefits. Without filing, you cannot qualify for payments such as:
- GST/HST Credit
- Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
- Climate Action Incentive Payment (CAIP)
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
Even if your income is low, filing ensures you’re eligible for the maximum possible benefits.
Tips to Maximize CRA Benefits
- File early to avoid delays in benefit calculation.
- Double-check deductions, such as medical, tuition, or caregiver credits.
- Sign up for CRA direct deposit to ensure timely payments.
- Monitor CRA My Account for updates and payment alerts.
- Consult a tax professional if you’re unsure how to maximize credits.
Provincial and Territorial Add-Ons
Many benefits are provincially administered but paid through CRA, including:
- Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
- Alberta Child and Family Benefit
- BC Climate Action Tax Credit
These programs can increase your total deposits, further contributing to the $2,600 figure circulating online.
Common Misconceptions About CRA $2,600 Direct Deposit
- “Everyone gets the same amount.” False. Payments vary by income, household size, and province.
- “It’s a new one-time benefit.” Wrong. It’s a mix of existing benefits deposited together.
- “No tax filing is required.” Incorrect. Filing taxes is mandatory.
- “The $2,600 is guaranteed.” Not true. Many will see less, some may see nothing.
The Bigger Picture – Economic Context
The rumors come as Canadians face rising housing costs, inflation, and food prices. While no universal $2,600 deposit has been confirmed, stacked benefits are playing a crucial role in keeping families afloat.
For low- and middle-income households, these payments can mean the difference between financial stress and stability.
FAQs – CRA $2,600 Direct Deposit September 2025
Q1: Is the CRA really paying $2,600 to everyone in September 2025?
No. The CRA has not announced a universal payment. The $2,600 figure comes from combined benefits that some households may receive.
Q2: Who might actually get close to $2,600?
Families receiving CCB, GST/HST credits, and possibly OAS/CPP together may see deposits adding up to around that figure.
Q3: How can I check if I qualify?
Log into CRA My Account, ensure your 2024 taxes are filed, and check the “Upcoming Payments” section.
Q4: Does everyone receive GST/HST credits and CCB?
No. These payments are income-tested, and not all Canadians qualify.
Q5: What should I do to avoid scams?
Ignore messages asking for payment by gift cards, PayPal, or e-transfer. CRA only pays through direct deposit or cheque.