The Canada Grocery Rebate is set to provide much-needed relief to millions of Canadians struggling with rising food prices and ongoing inflation. Part of the federal government’s cost-of-living support plan, this one-time payment helps low- and middle-income households manage the increasing cost of groceries and essential goods.
Payment Schedule and CRA Confirmation
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that Grocery Rebate payments will begin rolling out in the third week of October 2025.
Eligible recipients will see the deposit listed in their CRA My Account under:
“GST/HST Credit – Grocery Rebate.”
Those who receive their GST/HST Credit by direct deposit will automatically receive the Grocery Rebate in the same way.
Eligibility and Amount
Eligibility for the rebate is automatic—no separate application is required. The CRA bases qualification on information from 2024 tax returns.
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Single taxpayers with incomes under $45,000
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Families with combined household incomes below $65,000
Those who qualified for the GST/HST Credit will also be considered for this rebate.
While the average rebate amount is around $628, actual payments vary depending on family size and income level.
How to Ensure You Receive Your Payment
To prevent delays or missed payments, the CRA recommends that recipients:
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Log into their CRA My Account to verify direct deposit details and mailing address
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Update personal information promptly if they’ve moved recently
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Contact the CRA to request a payment trace if funds are not received by October 25, 2025
Why the Rebate Matters
With grocery prices up over 10% year-over-year in provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, the rebate provides crucial short-term support.
In rural and northern communities, where transportation costs drive food prices even higher, this payment offers especially meaningful relief.
Although $628 may not fully offset rising grocery bills, it helps households cover essentials like fresh produce, milk, and pantry staples during a time of persistent inflation.
A Broader Support Effort
This October payment underscores the federal government’s ongoing efforts to help Canadians navigate rising living costs. It also highlights the importance of keeping tax filings current—since many credits and rebates are calculated automatically using prior-year return data.
As the Grocery Rebate reaches millions across the country, it reinforces the CRA’s role not only in revenue collection but also in delivering targeted financial assistance when Canadians need it most.
