Good news for Canadian taxpayers—CRA’s GST/HST credit is back for another round in December 2025, and if you’re eligible, you could receive up to $698. This tax-free quarterly payment helps individuals and families offset the goods and services tax (GST) and harmonized sales tax (HST) they’ve paid throughout the year.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the $698 GST/HST Tax Credit for December 2025, including who qualifies, how much you’ll receive, and how to apply.
Overview
The GST/HST tax credit is one of the most widely used benefits offered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It is issued quarterly and helps lower-income Canadians manage rising expenses, especially with inflation driving costs higher.
Here’s a quick summary of the benefit:
| About | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | GST/HST Tax Credit |
| Payment Date | 3rd October 2025 (Q4) |
| Max Payment Amount | $698 (per couple) |
| Per Child Benefit | $184 (under age 19) |
| Minimum Age Requirement | 19 years |
| Eligibility | Canadian residents, low/moderate income |
| Official Site | www.canada.ca |
| Category | Canada Finance |
Eligibility
To receive the $698 GST/HST Credit in December 2025, you must meet a few standard criteria set by the CRA.
You must:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Be 19 years or older
- If you’re under 19, you must:
- Have a spouse or common-law partner, or
- Be a parent living with your child
Your eligibility and payment amount will be based on your previous year’s income (i.e., your 2024 tax return), so make sure your taxes are filed and up to date.
Amounts
Wondering how much you could receive? Here’s a breakdown of the GST/HST tax credit amounts for 2025:
| Recipient Type | Maximum Annual Credit |
|---|---|
| Single Individual | Up to $533 |
| Married/Common-law Couple | Up to $698 |
| Per Child Under 19 | $184 per child |
This amount is divided into four quarterly payments throughout the year.
Keep in mind that the amount you receive can be reduced if your household income exceeds a certain threshold.
Payments
The GST/HST Credit is issued four times a year. The expected GST/HST payment dates for 2025 are:
| GST/HST Payment Dates 2025 |
|---|
| 3 January 2025 |
| 4 April 2025 |
| 3 July 2025 |
| 3 October 2025 |
So, the final payment of 2025 (for Q4) will be deposited on 3rd October 2025. There is no separate December payment, but the October installment will cover that quarter.
Application
The best part? Most people don’t need to apply separately for the GST/HST credit. If you file your taxes annually, the CRA automatically assesses your eligibility based on your return.
However, here’s how to apply if you’re new to Canada or haven’t received it before:
- Visit www.canada.ca
- Go to the “Benefits” section
- Log in or register for CRA My Account
- Fill out the application form (RC151 for newcomers)
- Submit the necessary supporting documents
- CRA will review and notify you
Once approved, payments will be made automatically each quarter, either through direct deposit or mailed cheque.
Fact Check
Let’s clear up some confusion. There’s a lot of online chatter about a “new” $698 GST/HST credit for December 2025. Here’s what’s true:
| Claim | Fact |
|---|---|
| $698 GST/HST credit for couples in December | True (Quarterly amount) |
| December-only one-time payment | False (Paid in October) |
| Child amount of $184 per child | True |
So yes, couples can receive up to $698, but it’s part of the regular October quarterly payment — not a new bonus or one-time payment.
FAQs
When is the GST credit paid in December 2025?
There is no December payment; it’s paid on 3 October 2025.
Who qualifies for the $698 GST credit?
Canadian couples with low/moderate income who filed taxes.
How much is the GST credit per child?
Each child under 19 adds $184 to your credit.
Do I need to apply for GST credit?
No, it’s automatic if your taxes are filed.
Where can I apply if I’m new to Canada?
Go to www.canada.ca and complete form RC151.
