Canada’s GST/HST Credit Gets a 2026 Update — Revised Dates, Higher Amounts and Eligibility Explained

The federal government has officially confirmed important updates to the GST/HST Credit for 2026, including revised payment dates, updated benefit amounts reaching up to $467, and clarified eligibility rules for low‑ and modest‑income Canadians.

As inflation continues to put pressure on household budgets, the GST/HST Credit remains one of the most important tax‑free supports available to individuals and families. Issued quarterly by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the credit helps offset the cost of sales taxes on everyday goods and services.

This guide explains how the GST/HST Credit works in 2026, when payments will be issued, who qualifies, how amounts are calculated, and what Canadians need to do to ensure they receive every payment.

What the GST/HST Credit Is and Why It Exists

The GST/HST Credit is a tax‑free quarterly payment designed to help Canadians with lower incomes recover some of the taxes they pay on goods and services. Unlike tax refunds, the credit is paid even if you owe no income tax.

The program supports:

• Low‑income individuals
• Low‑income couples
• Families with children
• Seniors on fixed incomes

The credit does not need to be repaid, making it a reliable source of extra income throughout the year.

Why the GST/HST Credit Matters More in 2026

In 2026, Canadians continue to face high housing costs, rising grocery prices, increased utility bills, and transportation expenses. For households with limited income, even modest tax relief can make a meaningful difference.

The updated payment amounts and revised income thresholds reflect inflation and changing economic conditions, ensuring that the credit remains relevant and effective.

New GST/HST Credit Payment Dates for 2026

The CRA issues GST/HST Credit payments four times per year. For 2026, payments are scheduled for:

• January 2026
• April 2026
• July 2026
• October 2026

If a scheduled payment date falls on a weekend or public holiday, the CRA issues the payment on the last business day before that date.

When Payments Appear in Bank Accounts

Most recipients receive their GST/HST Credit by direct deposit, which is the fastest and most secure method. Direct deposits typically appear early in the morning on the payment date.

Canadians who receive payments by cheque may experience delays of several days due to mail delivery times.

Why Quarterly Payment Timing Is Important

Quarterly payments help households manage:

• Seasonal utility and heating costs
• Food and transportation expenses
• Rent and housing‑related bills
• Overall cash‑flow stability

The January 2026 payment is especially important, as it arrives during winter when expenses are often higher and household budgets are already strained after the holidays.

Updated GST/HST Credit Amounts for 2026

For the 2026 benefit year, the maximum annual GST/HST Credit amount is expected to reach up to $467 for eligible single individuals, depending on income and household situation.

Approximate maximum annual amounts include:

• Single individuals: up to $467
• Married or common‑law couples: higher combined amounts
• Families with children: additional amounts per child

These totals are paid in four equal quarterly installments.

How Quarterly GST/HST Credit Payments Are Calculated

Your annual entitlement is divided evenly across four payments. For example:

• A $467 annual credit results in quarterly payments of about $116.75
• Families with children may receive larger quarterly deposits

Actual payment amounts depend on:

• Net family income
• Marital status
• Number of dependent children
• Annual inflation adjustments

Inflation Indexation and 2026 Credit Increases

The GST/HST Credit is indexed to inflation, meaning maximum payment amounts increase each year to keep pace with rising living costs.

The 2026 amounts reflect inflation data from the previous year, ensuring that the credit maintains its purchasing power for vulnerable households.

Who Qualifies for the GST/HST Credit in 2026

To qualify for the GST/HST Credit in 2026, you must meet several basic requirements:

• Be 19 years of age or older, or have a spouse or dependent child
• Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
• Have filed an income tax return
• Meet income eligibility thresholds

There is no separate application for the credit.

Income Thresholds and Phase‑Out Rules

The GST/HST Credit is income‑tested, meaning payments decrease gradually as income rises.

Key features include:

• Full credit for very low‑income households
• Partial credit for modest‑income households
• No credit once income exceeds the cutoff

Exact thresholds depend on:

• Family size
• Marital status
• Number of children

Eligibility for Students and Young Adults

Students and young adults may qualify if they:

• Are 19 years or older
• Have filed a tax return
• Meet income requirements

Even students with very low or no income should file taxes to establish eligibility.

How the CRA Determines Eligibility and Payment Amounts

The CRA uses data from your previous year’s tax return to calculate:

• Eligibility status
• Annual credit amount
• Quarterly payment amounts

For GST/HST Credit payments issued in 2026, the CRA primarily relies on 2025 income information.

Why Filing Taxes Every Year Is Essential

One of the most common reasons Canadians miss the GST/HST Credit is failure to file a tax return. Filing is required even if:

• You earned little or no income
• You owe no tax
• You receive social assistance

Filing ensures automatic enrollment in the program.

How the GST/HST Credit Is Paid

Direct deposit is the preferred payment method and is strongly recommended by the CRA. It reduces:

• Mailing delays
• Lost cheques
• Processing errors

Canadians not enrolled in direct deposit receive a cheque by mail, which may take longer.

How the Credit Supports Different Groups

Single low‑income adults receive individual maximum amounts to help offset sales taxes on daily purchases.

Couples receive higher combined credits, and families receive additional amounts per child, making the credit particularly valuable for households with dependents.

Many seniors qualify for the GST/HST Credit alongside Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).

Interaction With Other Government Benefits

GST/HST Credit payments do not count as income for:

• Old Age Security
• Guaranteed Income Supplement
• Canada Child Benefit

The credit is non‑taxable and does not need to be reported on tax returns.

Common Reasons Canadians Miss GST/HST Credit Payments

Missed payments usually occur due to:

• Not filing a tax return
• Incorrect banking or mailing information
• Unreported changes in marital status
• Changes in family situation

Keeping CRA records up to date is essential.

How to Check Your GST/HST Credit Status

Through CRA My Account, you can view:

• Eligibility status
• Payment history
• Upcoming payment dates
• Annual entitlement

If a payment is missing, wait five business days after the scheduled date before contacting the CRA.

Why the 2026 Updates Matter

The updated GST/HST Credit reflects the government’s response to ongoing affordability challenges. Quarterly payments provide predictable, reliable support throughout the year.

For many low‑income households, the credit remains a critical buffer against rising taxes and living costs.

Preparing for Your 2026 GST/HST Credit Payments

To avoid disruptions, Canadians should:

• File their 2025 tax return on time
• Update address, marital status, and direct deposit details
• Monitor payments through CRA My Account

Simple preparation ensures uninterrupted benefits

Long‑Term Importance of the GST/HST Credit

The GST/HST Credit continues to be one of Canada’s most effective tools for reducing the tax burden on vulnerable households. As economic pressures persist, its role in supporting financial stability remains vital.