Single Canadians eligible for the GST/HST credit may receive up to $519 in July, and couples and children also see a small increase.
The GST credit is designed to help offset the sales taxes people pay on everyday purchases. It’s an essential benefit for many low—and moderate-income individuals and families across the country.
This guide covers all the essential GST/HST credit details. I’ll explain the credit and who’s eligible to receive it. You’ll also learn how to apply for the benefit, payment amounts, and remaining dates for 2024.
Payment Dates for 2024
The GST/HST credit is paid four times a year. In 2024, you can expect your payments on these dates: January 5, April 5, July 5, and October 5, 2024.
Mark these dates on your calendar to know when to expect the extra money in your account.
How Much You Might Get
The amount you receive depends on several factors, including your income, whether you’re single or married, and how many children you have.
For the 2024-2025 benefit year, the maximum annual amounts are:
- $519 for single individuals
- $680 for married or common-law couples
- $177 per child under 19
Remember, these are the maximum amounts. You might get less depending on your situation.
Income Thresholds
Your income needs to be below a certain amount to get the full credit. For 2024-2025, these thresholds are $54,704 for single individuals and $57,924 for couples.
If you make more than this, you’ll get a reduced amount until a specific threshold.
GST Increases for 2024
The government adjusts the GST/HST credit amounts each year to keep up with inflation. This means the maximum amounts and income thresholds usually go up a little bit each year. The latest increase for 2024 applies to the July payment.
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How to Apply for the GST Credit
Good news – you don’t need to apply separately for the GST/HST credit. When you file your taxes, the government automatically determines if you’re eligible and how much you should get. Just make sure you file your taxes on time each year to keep getting the credit.
Changes That Affect Your Payments
Your GST/HST credit can change if: your income goes up or down, you have a baby, a child turns 19, and your marital status changes.
If any of these things happen, update your information with the CRA to make sure you get the right amount.
Provincial Programs
Some provinces have their own programs that work with the GST/HST credit. For example, Ontario has the Ontario Trillium Benefit, and BC has the BC Climate Action Tax Credit. These might be paid along with your GST/HST credit, giving you a bit more money.
Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
This combines three credits: the Ontario Sales Tax Credit, Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, and Northern Ontario Energy Credit. It’s paid monthly, usually on the 10th. The amount depends on your age, where you live, and how much you pay in rent or property tax.
BC Climate Action Tax Credit
This helps offset carbon taxes in British Columbia. It’s paid together with the GST/HST credit in July, October, January, and April. The amount depends on your family size and income.
Alberta Child and Family Benefit
While not directly tied to the GST/HST credit, this benefit is also based on income and family size. It’s paid in August, November, February, and May.
Getting Your Payments
The easiest way to get your payments is by direct deposit. The money goes straight into your bank account on the payment date. If you haven’t signed up for direct deposit, you can do it through your CRA My Account or by contacting the CRA.
What to Do If You Don’t Get Your Payment
If you don’t get your payment on the expected date, wait 10 working days before contacting the CRA. Sometimes there can be small delays. If you still don’t get it after 10 days, call the CRA to find out what’s going on.
GST/HST Credit Payments: 12 Facts About Amounts And Eligibility
GST/HST Credit Payments: 12 Facts About Amounts And Eligibility
Canada Child Benefits: 18 Facts You Should Know
Canada Child Benefits: 18 Facts You Should Know