The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment the CRA sends to low and modest income Canadians to help offset the cost of goods and services tax paid through the year.
2026 GST/HST credit payment dates
| Payment | Date |
|---|---|
| January 2026 | January 3, 2026 |
| April 2026 | April 4, 2026 |
| July 2026 | July 4, 2026 |
| October 2026 | October 3, 2026 |
Payments are automatically deposited to the bank account on file with the CRA, or mailed by cheque if you have not registered for direct deposit.
How much will you receive in 2026?
Amounts are based on your 2024 net income and family situation from your 2024 tax return.
| Situation | Annual Maximum | Per Quarter |
|---|---|---|
| Single, no children | $533 | $133.25 |
| Married or common-law couple | $701 | $175.25 |
| Per child under 19 | $179 | $44.75 |
Example: A couple with two children could receive up to $701 + (2 × $179) = $1,059/year — or about $264.75 per quarter.
When payments start to phase out
The GST credit reduces as income rises. The phase-out starts at different thresholds depending on family structure.
| Family Type | Phase-Out Starts Around | Fully Phased Out Around |
|---|---|---|
| Single, no children | $44,000 | $53,000 |
| Couple, no children | $44,000 | $58,000 |
| Single parent, 1 child | $44,000 | $60,000 |
These are approximate thresholds. The CRA calculates your exact amount based on your actual return.
How the GST credit year works
The GST/HST credit year runs from July to June. Each year’s payments are based on the prior year’s tax return:
| Payments Covering | Based On Tax Return For |
|---|---|
| July 2025 – April 2026 | 2024 return (filed in spring 2025) |
| July 2026 – April 2027 | 2025 return (filed in spring 2026) |
If you file your return late, your July payment may be delayed or missed entirely.
How to check your GST credit amount
Log in to My CRA Account at canada.ca/my-cra-account and go to “Benefits and credits” to see:
- Your current entitlement amount
- The dates payments are scheduled
- Whether the CRA has your direct deposit info
If you didn’t receive a payment
If a payment date passed and nothing arrived:
- Wait 10 business days — some payments take time to process
- Check My CRA Account for any notices or flags on your account
- Confirm your address and direct deposit info is current
- Call CRA benefit inquiries: 1-800-387-1193
No separate application needed
You do not apply for the GST/HST credit. Filing your income tax return each year is all that is required. Even if you have no income, file a return — you may still be entitled to the full credit amount.
Key takeaway
Mark January 3, April 4, July 4, and October 3 in your calendar. The GST credit is automatic if you file your taxes — and filing each year ensures the CRA has your updated income information to calculate the right amount.