The Canadian government has announced a one-time $628 grocery rebate to assist low- and moderate-income households in coping with rising food costs. This rebate, administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), is linked to the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit system and will be automatically credited to eligible recipients’ accounts.
Overview of the $628 Grocery Rebate
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rebate Amount | Up to $628, depending on family size and income |
| Eligibility | Low- and moderate-income Canadians who qualify for the GST/HST credit |
| Payment Date | May 15, 2025 |
| Application Process | No separate application needed; eligibility is based on 2023 tax returns |
| Official Website | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
What Is the Canada Grocery Rebate?
The $628 Grocery Rebate is a targeted financial relief measure announced by the federal government. Issued as a lump sum in May 2025, this rebate is similar to the grocery rebate that was disbursed in 2023. It is not a recurring benefit but a one-off support payment intended to ease financial pressure for families hardest hit by inflation, particularly food inflation, which remains at historic highs.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the May 2025 grocery rebate, you must:
- Be at least 19 years old before the payment date.
- Be a resident of Canada at the time of the payment.
- Have filed your 2023 taxes.
- Be eligible for the GST/HST credit.
- Fall within the low- to moderate-income bracket.
Eligibility is determined based on your 2023 adjusted family net income.
Estimated Rebate Amounts by Household Type
| Household Type | Maximum Rebate Amount |
|---|---|
| Single adult (no children) | $234 |
| Couple (no children) | $306 |
| Couple with 1 child | $387 |
| Couple with 2 children | $467 |
| Couple with 3 or more children | $628 |
| Single parent with 1 child | $306 |
Note: Final amounts may vary slightly based on your actual income and family size.
Payment Details
- Payment Date: The CRA has confirmed that the grocery rebate will be issued on May 15, 2025.
- Payment Methods:
- Direct Deposit: Fastest and most secure method.
- Mailed Cheque: Delivery times may vary based on location.
Ensure your banking details and mailing address are up to date in your CRA My Account to avoid delays.
How to Ensure You Receive the Rebate
To ensure you’re eligible and receive your payment on time:
- File your 2023 taxes immediately if you haven’t already.
- Update your banking and personal information on the CRA’s website.
- Check your CRA My Account for updates and payment notifications.
Even if your income is so low that you owe no taxes, filing a return is necessary to receive the grocery rebate.
Importance of the Rebate
The $628 grocery rebate comes at a time when many Canadians are choosing between paying bills and putting food on the table. According to recent inflation trends, food prices have outpaced wages, making this rebate a critical lifeline for millions.
It also complements other federal relief efforts such as the GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit (CCB), and Old Age Security (OAS) enhancements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who will get the full $628 rebate?
Couples or single parents with three or more children, depending on their income level, are eligible for the maximum $628 payment.
Q2: Is the rebate taxable?
No, the grocery rebate is completely tax-free and will not affect your tax return or income calculations.
Q3: Do I need to apply separately for the rebate?
No application is needed. If you’re eligible for the GST/HST credit, you will automatically receive the grocery rebate.
Q4: How can I check the status of my payment?
A. You can check your payment status by logging into your CRA My Account on the official website.
Q5: What should I do if I don’t receive my payment?
A. If your payment does not arrive within 10 business days of the scheduled date, contact the CRA at 1-888-863-8662 for assistance.
Conclusion
The $628 Canada Grocery Rebate coming in May 2025 is more than just a one-time support—it’s a vital cushion for families grappling with food inflation and household expenses. With automatic payments based on tax filings and direct deposit available, it’s crucial to file your 2023 taxes and update your CRA account details to ensure you don’t miss out.
For more information, visit the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) official website.
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