GST/HST Credit Payment Dates 2026
The GST/HST Credit is a tax-free quarterly payment administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help eligible low and modest-income Canadians offset part of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) they pay during the year.
In 2026, this payment is especially important because the GST/HST Credit will transition to the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit starting in July 2026.
GST/HST Credit Payment Dates 2026: When Will Your Next CRA Payment Arrive?
The GST/HST Credit is one of the most searched CRA benefit payments because it is paid only four times per year. For eligible Canadians, these quarterly payments can help cover groceries, bills, transportation and other essential costs.
Unlike monthly benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit, GST/HST Credit payments are issued in January, April, July and October. That makes it especially important to know the exact payment dates and keep your CRA information updated.
GST/HST Credit Payment Dates 2026
The table below shows the scheduled GST/HST Credit and Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit payment dates for 2026.
| Payment Period | Payment Date | Program Name |
|---|---|---|
| January 2026 | January 5, 2026 | GST/HST Credit |
| April 2026 | April 2, 2026 | GST/HST Credit |
| June 2026 | Starting June 5, 2026 | One-time GST/HST Credit top-up |
| July 2026 | July 3, 2026 | Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit |
| October 2026 | October 5, 2026 | Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit |
These dates are based on official CRA and Government of Canada payment information. Payments may take a few days to appear, and cheques may take longer than direct deposit.
What Changes in July 2026?
Starting in July 2026, the GST/HST Credit will be replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit. According to Canada.ca, quarterly payments made after July 2026 will use the new program name.
The Government of Canada also announced a one-time GST/HST Credit top-up payment starting June 5, 2026, as part of the transition to the new benefit. This top-up is for eligible recipients who were entitled to the January 2026 GST/HST Credit payment.
Official GST/HST Payment Dates →Who Is Eligible for the GST/HST Credit?
Eligibility for the GST/HST Credit is determined by the CRA using information from your annual income tax return. Most people do not need to apply separately, but they must file their taxes so the CRA can calculate whether they qualify.
- You must be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes.
- You generally need to file an annual income tax return.
- Your adjusted family net income affects eligibility and payment amounts.
- Your marital status and family size may affect your payment.
- You must meet CRA age or family situation requirements.
What Can Affect Your GST/HST Credit Amount?
Income
Your adjusted family net income is one of the main factors used to calculate your payment.
Family Situation
Marital status, eligible children and shared custody situations may affect the amount you receive.
Tax Filing
The CRA uses your tax return to determine eligibility, so filing on time is important.
How Much Can You Receive?
GST/HST Credit amounts vary depending on your adjusted family net income, whether you are single or have a spouse or common-law partner, and whether you have eligible children.
Payment amounts can change when your income changes, your marital status changes, an eligible child turns 19, the number of children in your care changes, or custody arrangements change.
Official GST/HST Credit Amounts →What Can Delay a GST/HST Credit Payment?
Most GST/HST Credit payments arrive on time, especially with direct deposit. However, delays can happen if the CRA needs updated information or if your payment is sent by cheque.
- Your annual tax return has not been filed.
- Your direct deposit information is outdated.
- Your mailing address is incorrect.
- Your marital status or family information changed.
- The CRA is reviewing your eligibility.
- Your payment is sent by cheque instead of direct deposit.
Official GST/HST Credit Resources
Use the official CRA links below to check payment dates, eligibility, payment amounts and CRA account information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often is the GST/HST Credit paid?
The GST/HST Credit is generally paid four times per year, usually in January, April, July and October.
What are the GST/HST Credit payment dates for 2026?
The scheduled 2026 dates are January 5, April 2, July 3 and October 5. A one-time top-up is also scheduled to start on June 5, 2026 for eligible recipients.
Do I need to apply for the GST/HST Credit?
Most people do not need to apply separately. The CRA usually determines eligibility when you file your annual income tax return.
What is the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit?
Starting in July 2026, the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit replaces the GST/HST Credit. Quarterly payments after July 2026 will be issued under the new program name.
Can newcomers to Canada receive the GST/HST Credit?
Some newcomers may qualify depending on residency status and CRA eligibility rules.
Related Payment Guides
Final Thoughts
The GST/HST Credit remains one of Canada’s most important tax-free benefit payments for low and modest-income individuals and families. In 2026, recipients should pay special attention to the transition to the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, the June top-up payment and the regular quarterly CRA payment dates.
