Millions of Canadians can expect their first GST/HST credit payment of 2026 to land on Monday, January 20, either by direct deposit or mail. For many, this quarterly benefit from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) arrives just in time after the holidays — offering a welcome financial boost.
Even better? Another increase is coming in July 2026. But first, let’s unpack everything you need to know about the January payment — who qualifies, how much you could get, and what dates to mark on your calendar this year.
Credit
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment that helps low- and modest-income Canadians cover the cost of sales tax on everyday purchases.
Unlike some benefits, it’s calculated automatically when you file your taxes. There’s no annual application for most people. The CRA reviews your return and decides whether you qualify.
Calculation
The credit runs on a fixed July-to-June benefit year, not a calendar year. Here’s how it breaks down for January 2026:
- Your January and April 2026 payments are based on your 2024 tax return
- Your July and October 2026 payments will be based on your 2025 tax return
That’s why filing your taxes on time every year is the most important thing you can do to keep the payments flowing.
Eligibility
You may qualify for the GST/HST credit if:
- You’re a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- You’re at least 19 years old, or:
- You’re under 19 and have a child, or
- You’re under 19 and have a spouse or common-law partner
Newcomers may need to apply manually in their first year, using CRA form RC151 (without children) or RC66 (with children). After your first return, CRA usually calculates your eligibility automatically.
Amounts
Here’s the maximum annual amount for the July 2025 to June 2026 benefit year:
| Family Type | Annual GST Credit |
|---|---|
| Single adult | $533 |
| Couple or common-law partners | $698 |
| Each child under 19 | $184 |
This means a family of four (two adults + two children) could receive up to $1,066 per year, or about $266.50 per quarter.
Your actual payment may be lower depending on your adjusted family net income (AFNI).
Thresholds
The GST credit phases out as your income rises. If your household income is above a certain amount, your payment will be reduced or cut off entirely.
Here are the income thresholds based on the 2024 tax return:
| Household Type | Income Where Credit = $0 |
|---|---|
| Single, no children | $56,181+ |
| Single parent with 1 child | $63,161+ |
| Couple with 2 children | $66,841+ |
| Couple with 4 children | $74,201+ |
If your income is below these numbers, your payment will depend on household size and net income.
Increase
The CRA will increase the GST/HST credit starting July 2026 with a 2% indexation adjustment to keep up with inflation.
Expected new annual maximums:
| Family Type | GST Credit (From July 2026) |
|---|---|
| Single adult | ~$543 |
| Couple or common-law | ~$712 |
| Per eligible child | ~$188 |
That means a family of four could receive about $1,131/year, starting July 2026.
Dates
Here are the official GST/HST payment dates for 2026:
| Payment Date | Quarter |
|---|---|
| January 20, 2026 | Q1 |
| April 2, 2026 | Q2 |
| July 3, 2026 | Q3 (new benefit year, 2% increase) |
| October 5, 2026 | Q4 |
| January 20, 2027 | Q1 (next cycle) |
If your quarterly amount is less than $50, CRA will combine all four quarters and issue a single lump sum in July.
Missing
Didn’t get your payment on January 20? Try this first:
- Log into your CRA My Account
- Check for direct deposit issues
- Confirm your mailing address is up-to-date
- See if CRA applied the payment to other debts
Delays happen more often with mailed cheques, so direct deposit is always the safer choice.
Scams
When CRA payment dates roll around, so do the scams.
Watch out for fake messages saying you need to “verify” your banking info or “unlock” your GST payment. The CRA will never ask for personal or banking details by text or email.
Only use CRA My Account or call official numbers to check your payment status.
FAQs
When is the next GST payment?
January 20, 2026, by direct deposit or cheque.
How often is the GST credit paid?
It’s paid quarterly: January, April, July, and October.
Do I have to apply every year?
No, just file your taxes. CRA calculates it automatically.
How much will I get in January?
One-quarter of your annual GST credit entitlement.
What if I didn’t get my GST payment?
Check CRA My Account and confirm your info is up-to-date.
