Canadian families and individuals eligible for the GST/HST credit will see a one-time top-up payment deposited in their bank accounts this week. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) confirmed that those entitled to the rebranded Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) will receive an additional payment equal to 50% of their previous GST/HST credit on Friday, June 5, 2026.
Increased Quarterly Payments Starting July
Starting July 3, 2026, the renamed quarterly payments will increase by 25% for five years until 2031. These payments will be referred to as the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit on bank statements. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the additional funding in January to make groceries and other essentials more affordable, addressing difficult economic conditions many Canadians face due to global challenges and trade uncertainty.
The Department of Finance stated, "It is estimated that 12.6 million individuals and families would benefit from the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, representing material support to Canadians that need it the most, while the government's plan to build the strongest economy in the G7 takes effect."
Eligibility for the Top-Up Payment
Canadians who are 19 years and older do not need to apply for the new benefit; the CRA will determine eligibility automatically after an individual's 2025 tax return has been filed. New residents may need to apply using Form RC151. The eligibility criteria for the previous GST/HST credit will apply to the new benefit.
The CRA explained, "If you filed your 2024 tax return and were entitled to receive the GST/HST credit in January 2026, you will receive the one-time GST/HST credit top-up payment." Individuals are also encouraged to file their 2025 tax return to ensure eligibility for the increased CGEB payments starting in July.
How Much Will Be Deposited?
The payment amount depends on financial and family situations. For example, if an individual received a GST/HST credit of $500, the top-up payment this week will be $250. The government outlined maximum payment amounts for individuals or single-parent families: up to $267 with no children, $441 with one child, $533 with two children, $625 with three children, and $717 with four children.
For married or common-law couples without children, each couple will receive a top-up payment of $349. The CRA noted that in shared custody situations, each parent gets half the amount they would have received with full custody.
Who Is Not Eligible?
Individuals who did not file a 2024 tax return may not receive the top-up. Those who were not eligible for the GST/HST credit in January 2026 will not get the extra cash. If a spouse or common-law partner received the one-time top-up on behalf of the family, no additional benefit will be given. If a resident owes money to the CRA but is eligible for the new benefit, the payment will be applied to the outstanding balance.
