The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will issue a one-time top-up payment in spring 2026 (no later than June 2026) to eligible low- and modest-income Canadians.
The payment is tied to the GST/HST Credit, which is being expanded and referred to as the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit.
Importantly, no separate application is required.
Here’s what has been confirmed.
What Is the One-Time Top-Up?
The federal government has confirmed that eligible recipients will receive a lump-sum payment equal to 50% of their annual 2025–26 GST/HST Credit amount.
- Paid as early as possible in spring 2026
- Issued no later than June 2026
- Automatically calculated based on GST eligibility
Eligibility is tied specifically to being entitled to the January 2026 GST/HST Credit payment.
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Confirmed Example Amounts
While amounts vary by income and family size, government examples show:
- $267 — example: single senior with $25,000 net income
- $533 — example: couple with two children and $40,000 net income
Actual payments depend on:
- Adjusted net family income
- Marital status
- Number of eligible children
How the 25% Increase Fits In
In addition to the one-time top-up:
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- The GST/HST Credit will increase 25% for five years starting July 2026
- Payments will continue quarterly under the enhanced structure
The spring 2026 top-up is separate from the ongoing quarterly increase.
Who Will Receive the Top-Up?
You may receive the payment if you:
- Were eligible for and entitled to the January 2026 GST/HST Credit
- Filed your tax return on time
- Met income eligibility thresholds
Because the GST credit is income-tested, filing taxes is essential — even if you had no income.
How Will It Be Paid?
The payment will be delivered the same way as your GST/HST Credit:
- Direct deposit (if registered with CRA)
- Cheque by mail (if no direct deposit on file)
No additional steps are required if your information is up to date.
Example Payment Overview
| Household Example | One-Time Top-Up | 2026–27 Ongoing Increase | Total Increase | Total 2026–27 Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single senior ($25,000 income) | $267 | $136 | $402 | $950 |
| Couple with 2 children ($40,000 income) | $533 | $272 | $805 | $1,890 |
Figures are illustrative. Individual payments will vary.
Why This Support Is Being Introduced
The top-up is intended to help offset:
- Elevated grocery prices
- Essential household costs
- Ongoing inflation pressures
By delivering the payment through the existing GST credit system, the government avoids requiring new applications.
What You Should Do Now
To avoid delays:
File Your Taxes
GST eligibility is calculated using tax return data.
Check Direct Deposit
Log into CRA My Account and confirm banking details.
Update Your Address
Incorrect mailing details can delay cheque payments.
Review GST Eligibility
If unsure, check your previous GST/HST Credit notices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the GST top-up be paid?
Spring 2026, no later than June 2026.
Do I need to apply?
No. It is automatic if you qualified for January 2026 GST.
How much will I receive?
Up to $533 for families or $267 for single seniors, depending on income.
Is the payment taxable?
No. The GST/HST Credit is tax-free.
What if I didn’t receive January’s GST payment?
You must have been entitled to January 2026 GST to receive the top-up.
Will GST payments increase after this?
Yes. A 25% increase begins July 2026 for five years.
How can I check eligibility?
Log into CRA My Account or review your GST notice.
