Surprise $680 CRA Payment in 2025 – Check Out If You’re Eligible to Receive It!

In 2025, many Canadians were surprised to see a $680 deposit from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in their bank accounts. No warning, no application, just money—prompting questions like: “Why did I get this?” and “Will I get it again?”

This payment isn’t a random government bonus. It’s part of the GST/HST credit, a tax-free quarterly benefit for Canadians with low to moderate incomes. In this article, we’ll explain how it works, who qualifies, how to apply (hint: it’s easier than you think), and how to make sure you don’t miss out in the future.

Overview

This benefit is more common than you might think—and you may already be eligible without even knowing it.

What Is the GST/HST Credit?

Let’s keep it simple.

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The GST/HST credit is a tax-free payment from the federal government that helps offset the sales taxes you pay throughout the year. Think of it like a refund for everyday goods and services—groceries, clothing, transit, even haircuts.

You don’t need to submit receipts. If your income is low enough and you meet basic criteria, the CRA calculates your eligibility from your tax return and deposits the money into your account four times a year.

It’s meant to ease the pressure from rising living costs and inflation, especially for families and individuals who need extra help.

Who Can Get the $680 in 2025?

The amount you receive is based on your 2023 tax return. Let’s break down who qualifies:

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1. Income Level

To qualify, your adjusted family net income must be under a certain threshold. For July 2024 to June 2025 payments, the CRA used your 2023 income.

Here’s the max you can get:

• Individuals: Up to $519/year
• Couples: Up to $680/year
• Children under 19: Add $179 per child

Example: A couple with one child can receive up to $859 annually.

If your income is higher, the credit gradually reduces. For instance, if a single person earns over $49,000, they may receive little or nothing.

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2. Age and Residency

You must meet all of the following:

• Be 19 or older, or have a spouse/common-law partner, or have a child
• Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
• Have filed a 2023 tax return, even with no income

New to Canada? You may still qualify—just complete Form RC151 and submit it to the CRA.

3. Family and Marital Status

If your family situation changes—getting married, having a baby, or separating—it can affect your payment amount. Always update your information with the CRA.

Payment Schedule

The GST/HST credit is paid out quarterly. You can receive the full amount in four equal payments, or if your annual amount is under $50, it may be paid as one lump sum.

2025 Payment Dates:

• January 3, 2025
• July 4, 2025
• October 3, 2025
• (Next January 2026)

Direct deposit is the fastest way to get your money. If you’re not signed up, do it through your CRA My Account.

How to Apply

Here’s the best part—there’s no formal application for most people. You’re automatically considered when you file your taxes.

Step-by-Step:

1. File Your 2023 Tax Return
Even if you had no income. This is non-negotiable. No return = no credit.

2. Keep Your Info Updated
Changes in your:

• Address
• Bank info
• Marital status
• Number of kids

…can affect your payment. Update your details via CRA My Account or by calling them.

3. Monitor Your Account
Log into your CRA My Account regularly to check payment dates, amounts, and correspondence.

Real-Life Example

Samantha & John, a couple in Ontario with one child, filed a joint income of $32,000 in 2023.

Here’s what they get:

That’s almost an extra $215 every three months—money that helps with groceries, gas, or bills.

Why Some People Were Surprised by the $680

If this payment caught you off guard, you’re not alone. Here’s why:

• You filed your taxes late and got back pay
• Your income dropped suddenly and you now qualify
• You recently turned 19
• You became a parent
• CRA reviewed your file and corrected a previous error

Check your CRA My Account for payment history or call them directly if you need clarification.

Tips to Ensure You Keep Getting It

• Always file your taxes on time
• Sign up for direct deposit
• Keep your marital and family status current
• Create and regularly check your CRA My Account

The CRA doesn’t just use your tax return for the GST/HST credit—it uses it for other programs too, like the Canada Carbon Rebate, Canada Workers Benefit, and provincial supplements.

FAQs