The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed details surrounding the Canada Grocery Rebate, with eligible households potentially receiving up to $628 based on income and family size. The one-time payment is designed to help low- and middle-income Canadians manage rising food costs.

While the exact February 2026 deposit date will be announced through official government channels, payments will be issued automatically to qualifying individuals using information from their most recent tax return.

If you are expecting this benefit, now is the time to confirm eligibility and ensure your tax information is current.

What Is the Canada Grocery Rebate?

The Grocery Rebate is a targeted federal support measure linked to the GST/HST Credit system. It provides direct financial relief to households most affected by food inflation.

The rebate:

• Is a one-time payment
• Is tax-free
• Does not require a separate application
• Is calculated automatically using tax return data

Eligible recipients will receive funds by direct deposit or mailed cheque.

February 2026 Payment Update

The February 2026 Grocery Rebate will be issued based on previously filed tax information.

Key points:

• No application required
• Payment issued automatically if eligible
• Amount depends on income and family size
• Direct deposit is the fastest payment method

The CRA is expected to confirm the exact February 2026 payment date in early February.

Maximum Payment Amount: Up to $628

While amounts vary, households may receive up to $628, depending on:

• Adjusted family net income
• Marital status
• Number of children

The program uses a sliding scale:

• Lower-income households receive the highest payment
• Moderate-income households receive reduced amounts

Exact calculations are based on your most recent assessed tax return.

Eligibility Criteria for the Grocery Rebate

To qualify, you must:

• Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
• Have filed your most recent tax return
• Meet income thresholds set by the federal government
• Qualify for the GST/HST credit

Eligibility is automatically assessed by the CRA.

Even individuals with little or no income must file taxes to remain eligible.

How to Check Your Eligibility

You can verify your status by:

• Logging into CRA My Account
• Reviewing your GST/HST credit eligibility
• Checking official Government of Canada announcements

If your tax return has not been filed or assessed, payment may be delayed.

How the Payment Will Be Delivered

The Grocery Rebate will be issued through standard CRA methods:

• Direct deposit (recommended)
• Mailed cheque

Ensure your:

• Banking details are current
• Address is updated
• Marital status changes are reported

Incorrect information may delay payment.

Why the Grocery Rebate Was Introduced

The rebate aims to address:

• Persistent food price inflation
• Household cost-of-living pressures
• Financial strain among low-income Canadians

It is part of broader federal affordability measures.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the February 2026 Grocery Rebate being paid?

The exact date will be announced in early February 2026 through official government channels.

Do I need to apply?

No. Eligibility is determined automatically through your tax return.

How much can I receive?

Up to $628, depending on income and household size.

Is the payment taxable?

No. The Grocery Rebate is tax-free.

Who qualifies?

Low- and middle-income Canadians eligible for the GST/HST credit.

How can I track my payment?

Log into CRA My Account to monitor your deposit status.

What if I haven’t filed my taxes?

You may not receive the payment until your tax return is filed and assessed.