The GST/HST Credit Has Changed — Here’s What to Know Before the October Payment
Millions of Canadians who previously received the GST/HST credit are now receiving the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit. The next quarterly payment is scheduled for October 5, 2026, and the new benefit pays 25% more than the GST/HST credit it replaced.
The GST/HST credit was replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) in July 2026. Regular benefit amounts have been increased by 25% for five years. The next scheduled payment is October 5, 2026. If you qualify, you generally do not need to apply separately — but you do need to file your income tax return each year.
What Happened to the GST/HST Credit?
The familiar GST/HST credit has been replaced by a new benefit called the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit.
The change took effect in July 2026.
This is more than simply a new name. The federal government increased the value of the regular benefit by 25% for five years.
The eligibility structure remains based on the former GST/HST credit, so Canadians who previously qualified may continue to receive payments under the new name.
When Is the Next Payment?
The benefit is paid quarterly.
The 2026 payment schedule was:
| Payment Date | Benefit |
|---|---|
| January 5, 2026 | GST/HST Credit |
| April 2, 2026 | GST/HST Credit |
| July 3, 2026 | Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit |
| October 5, 2026 | Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit |
How Much More Is the New Benefit Worth?
The regular Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit is 25% higher than the GST/HST credit on which it was built.
The federal government says the increase will remain in place for five years, covering the 2026–27 through 2030–31 benefit periods.
The government estimates that a single person could receive up to approximately $700 per year under the enhanced benefit in future benefit years, while a family of four could receive approximately $1,400 per year.
Those are maximum examples. The amount actually received depends on family circumstances and adjusted family net income.
What About the Larger Amount Canadians Received Earlier This Year?
There was also a separate one-time top-up issued on June 5, 2026.
That payment was generally equal to 50% of the annual 2025–26 GST/HST credit amount for eligible recipients.
The June payment was temporary. It should not be confused with the ongoing 25% increase in regular quarterly payments.
June 2026: One-time 50% top-up for eligible GST/HST credit recipients.
Starting July 2026: Regular benefit increased by 25% for five years.
Who Can Get the Benefit?
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit uses the same basic eligibility structure as the GST/HST credit it replaced.
It is intended primarily for Canadians with low and modest incomes, with the payment amount determined using information from your income tax return and family situation.
If you were already receiving the GST/HST credit and your circumstances have not materially changed, CRA says you are likely to be eligible for the new benefit.
Do You Have to Apply?
Usually, no separate application is required.
CRA determines eligibility using your income tax return. The important step is to file your tax return every year, even if you have little or no income.
Payments beginning in July 2026 are generally based on information from the recipient’s 2025 income tax return.
Failing to file a return can therefore mean missing benefit payments that you might otherwise qualify to receive.
Why Your Payment May Be Different From Someone Else’s
There isn’t one fixed Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit payment for everyone.
CRA calculates the amount using factors including your adjusted family net income, marital status and number of eligible children.
Your payment may also include amounts from certain provincial or territorial benefit programs administered by CRA.
What If You Don’t Receive the October Payment?
If you expected a payment but don’t receive one, first check your CRA account.
Under Benefits and credits, you can view your Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit payment information and see amounts CRA has calculated for you.
Also make sure CRA has your current address, marital status, banking information and other relevant personal information.
Watch Out for Benefit Scams
A new government benefit can also create an opportunity for scammers.
CRA warns that its email notifications will not ask you to provide personal information or click a link to receive the benefit.
You do not need to pay a fee or provide banking information through an unsolicited email or text message to receive a legitimate CGEB payment.
If you’re uncertain about a payment, check directly through your CRA account rather than following a link in an unexpected message.
The Bottom Line
The GST/HST credit has been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, and regular benefit amounts are now 25% higher.
The next quarterly payment is scheduled for October 5, 2026.
For most Canadians, there is no separate application. But there is one important action required to keep receiving benefits you qualify for: file your income tax return every year.
Canada Revenue Agency — Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Payment Dates
Canada Revenue Agency — GST/HST Credit Replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit
VIPNews explains Canadian government changes in plain English. This article provides general information. Benefit eligibility and payment amounts depend on individual and family circumstances.