Surprise $680 Payment from the CRA in 2025 – Are You Eligible to Receive It?

In 2025, thousands of Canadians got an unexpected financial boost when a $680 deposit from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) appeared in their accounts. While some were confused or thought it was a bonus, this payment actually comes from the GST/HST credit—a government program designed to help with the cost of living.

In this article, we’ll explain what this credit is, who qualifies for the $680 payment, how it’s calculated, when you’ll get it, and how to make sure you don’t miss out in the future.

What Is It

The GST/HST credit is a tax-free, quarterly payment that helps low and moderate-income Canadians offset the costs of goods and services taxes. This isn’t a rebate for specific purchases, but rather a regular financial support to help reduce the burden of sales tax for households with modest incomes.

The CRA sends this benefit automatically to eligible individuals and families, usually based on their most recent tax return.

Who Qualifies

To receive the $680 payment in 2025, you must meet several eligibility requirements:

1. Income Thresholds

How much you receive depends on your net family income, your marital status, and the number of children you have. For the July 2024 to June 2025 period, based on your 2023 tax return:

Household Type	Maximum Annual Credit
Single Individual	$519
Married/Common-Law	$680
Each Child under 19	+$179 per child

The credit decreases as income rises. For example, single individuals earning over $49,000 may not qualify, while families may be phased out at higher combined incomes.

2. Age and Residency

• You must be 19 years or older, OR have a spouse/common-law partner OR a child
• Must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes

3. File Your Taxes

Even if you didn’t earn any income in 2023, you must file a tax return. This is how the CRA determines eligibility. Failing to file means you won’t be assessed—and won’t get paid.

Payment Schedule

The GST/HST credit is paid quarterly, meaning every three months. In some cases, if your total credit is less than $50 per quarter, it will be combined into a lump sum in July.

2025 Payment Dates:

Month	Payment Date
January	January 3
June	June 4
July	July 4
October	October 3

Payments are made via direct deposit or cheque. Direct deposit is faster and more secure. You can set this up or update your info through your CRA My Account.

HowToGetIt

There’s no formal application for the GST/HST credit. It’s automatic—if you file your taxes and meet the criteria. Here’s how to stay on track:

Step 1

The CRA uses your 2023 income to calculate eligibility for July 2024 to June 2025. Even if your income is zero, filing is mandatory to receive this benefit.

Step 2

Notify the CRA of changes to:

• Marital status
• Number of dependents
• Address or banking info

These changes can affect your payment amount and ensure you don’t miss out.

Step 3

This portal allows you to:

• Check payment dates
• View past credits
• Update your details

Registering gives you 24/7 access to your benefit info.

Real Example

Samantha and John live in Ontario with one child. Their 2023 household income was $32,000.

Here’s how their GST/HST credit breaks down:

Component	Amount
Couple Credit	$680
Child Credit	$179
Total	$859

They’ll receive $214.75 every quarter, helping with bills, groceries, and everyday costs.

Why Surprise

Not everyone expects this payment. Here’s why some people get it as a “surprise”:

• Filed taxes late and CRA issued back payments
• Had a recent life change like separation or income drop
• Turned 19 and became newly eligible
• CRA reassessed and issued retroactive amounts

Always check your bank account and CRA portal for clarification if you get an unexpected deposit.

Extra Tips

To make the most of your GST/HST credit:

• Set up direct deposit to get payments faster
• Check your CRA account regularly
• Budget quarterly payments for essentials
• Combine it with other benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) or Climate Action Incentive

This credit isn’t just for families—students, seniors, and low-income earners all qualify if they meet the income and residency criteria.

The $680 CRA payment in 2025 is part of Canada’s long-standing GST/HST credit program. It’s not a one-time windfall or bonus—it’s a steady form of support to help with the real cost of living. Filing your taxes and keeping your CRA information up to date are the only steps you need to unlock this helpful benefit.

FAQs