Canada Groceries Benefit Replaces GST/HST Credit; Quarterly Payments Rise 25% Starting July
The federal government replaced the GST/HST credit with the expanded Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit in July 2026, increasing quarterly payments by 25% for approximately 12 million low- and modest-income Canadians.
Major Change to Household Benefits
The most significant recent change is the July 2026 shift from the GST/HST credit to the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, which increased quarterly payments by 25% for an estimated 12 million low- and modest-income Canadians.
What This Means for Your Payments
Eligible recipients also received a one-time top-up payment in June 2026 ahead of the first enhanced CGEB deposit. GST/HST Credit Payment Dates for 2026 are landing on January 5, April 2, July 3, and October 5.
Important: No More Carbon Rebate
The Canada Carbon Rebate is no longer being paid. The federal government stopped the fuel charge on April 1, 2025, and the April 2025 rebate was the final one. Families that previously received both the carbon rebate and GST/HST credit now only receive the enhanced CGEB.
For newcomers and expat families: You must file a tax return to receive the CGEB. Filing a tax return is required for ALL of these benefits. The benefit is calculated quarterly based on your adjusted family net income, household size, and number of children under 19. If your income is below $45,521 (single filer), you likely qualify for close to the maximum benefit. File early in tax season (February onward) to ensure the CRA has your latest income information for July recalculation of your benefit amount.
Sources
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