With food prices continuing to climb across the country, the Canadian government has introduced the $628 Grocery Rebate for 2025. This one-time, tax-free payment aims to provide direct financial relief to low- and middle-income households struggling to keep up with the rising cost of essential groceries.
In this article, we cover who qualifies, how much you can expect to receive, when the rebate will be issued, and how to ensure you get your payment without delays.
Quick Summary Table: $628 Canada Grocery Rebate 2025
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | Canada |
| Payment Name | Grocery Rebate 2025 |
| Provided By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Maximum Amount | Up to $628 for families |
| Payment Date | Expected April 5, 2025 |
| Eligibility | Based on 2024 tax return and income level |
| Official Site | canada.ca |
| Support | CRA Helpline 1-800-959-1953 |
What is the $628 Canada Grocery Rebate?
The Grocery Rebate 2025 is a targeted financial measure introduced to help Canadians cope with soaring food prices. It functions through the GST/HST credit system, meaning eligible individuals will automatically receive the rebate without having to apply separately.
The maximum payment of $628 is reserved for families with two children. Single individuals and smaller households will receive proportionally lower amounts, depending on their income and family composition.
Why the Government Introduced the Grocery Rebate
The government’s decision to offer the Grocery Rebate stems from persistent inflation and the high cost of basic living expenses. Food costs, in particular, have been rising faster than overall inflation, putting pressure on household budgets.
This one-time rebate is part of broader efforts to help Canadians maintain access to affordable nutrition and manage their living expenses during a period of economic uncertainty.
Who Qualifies for the $628 Grocery Rebate?
Eligibility for the Grocery Rebate mirrors the criteria for the GST/HST credit:
- You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- You must have filed your 2024 tax return.
- Your income must fall below the thresholds set by the CRA.
Expected Income Thresholds for 2025:
- Individuals: Adjusted family net income below approximately $39,826.
- Couples: Combined adjusted net income below approximately $52,066.
Exact income thresholds will be officially confirmed by the CRA in early 2025. These amounts are based on prior GST credit guidelines and are subject to minor adjustments.
How Much Will You Receive?
The amount you receive from the Grocery Rebate depends on your family situation and income level:
| Household Type | Maximum Rebate Amount |
|---|---|
| Single individuals | Up to $234 |
| Married or common-law couples | Up to $467 |
| Each dependent child under 19 | Additional $157 per child |
| Example: Family with two children | Up to $628 |
The Grocery Rebate is intended to reflect the size of your household, ensuring that families with greater food needs receive proportionally larger support.
When Will the Grocery Rebate Be Paid?
The Canada Revenue Agency has indicated that the Grocery Rebate will be issued in Spring 2025, likely alongside the regular GST/HST credit payments.
The expected payment date is:
- April 5, 2025 (subject to final confirmation)
Payments will be made either by direct deposit or cheque, depending on how you have set up your CRA account.
How to Check Your Payment Status
After April 5, 2025, you can confirm whether your rebate has been issued by:
- Logging into your My CRA Account.
- Using the CRA MyBenefits mobile app.
- Calling the CRA at 1-800-959-1953.
If you do not see your payment after 10 business days, you should contact the CRA to investigate the delay.
How to Ensure You Receive the Grocery Rebate
To maximize your chances of receiving the Grocery Rebate without any issues, follow these steps:
- File Your 2024 Tax Return On Time:
Filing your tax return is essential. Eligibility is based on your reported income, so late filers may risk missing the payment window. - Update Your Banking Information:
If you have changed banks or account numbers, update your direct deposit information through your My CRA Account to avoid mailed cheques and potential delays. - Monitor Your Income Level:
If your income has recently dropped — due to unemployment, reduced work hours, or other reasons — you may qualify for a higher rebate amount. Ensure your tax return accurately reflects your financial situation.
Official Resources
For full details and updates on the Grocery Rebate 2025, consult the official CRA website:
- Canada Revenue Agency – Grocery Rebate Information
The CRA site also offers resources to help you understand other benefits, credits, and financial assistance available.
FAQs About the $628 Grocery Rebate
1. Do I need to apply for the Grocery Rebate?
Ans. No. If you qualify for the GST/HST credit based on your 2024 tax return, the Grocery Rebate will be issued automatically.
2. Will everyone receive $628?
Ans. No. Only families with two children meeting the income criteria will receive the full $628. Single individuals and families with fewer dependents will receive lower amounts.
3. What happens if I do not receive my payment by April 5, 2025?
Ans. If your rebate does not arrive, the CRA recommends waiting 10 business days before contacting them. After that, you can inquire via your My CRA Account or by calling the CRA support line.
4. Is the Grocery Rebate taxable?
Ans. No. The Grocery Rebate is a tax-free payment and does not need to be reported as income.
5. Can newcomers to Canada qualify?
Ans. Yes, but newcomers must be residents for tax purposes and must have filed a 2024 tax return to be considered.
6. Will there be another Grocery Rebate after 2025?
Ans. As of now, the Grocery Rebate is a one-time payment for 2025. Future support measures, if any, would be announced separately by the government.
Final Thoughts
The $628 Canada Grocery Rebate 2025 offers timely financial assistance to Canadians grappling with high grocery prices. For many, this rebate could make the difference between a strained and a stable household budget.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, make sure to file your tax return early and keep your CRA account information updated. Staying informed and proactive ensures you will receive the full benefits available to you.
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