The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will issue a one-time, tax-free $250 payment to eligible Canadians in 2025. This federal support is aimed at helping individuals and families cope with rising living costs driven by inflation. The benefit will be automatically distributed, requiring no separate application.
CRA Announces $250 One-Time Payment
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $250 (individual), $500 (couples), possible extras for parents |
| Taxable | No – tax-free |
| Who Qualifies | Low- and moderate-income Canadians who filed a 2024 tax return |
| Eligibility Criteria | Age 19+, Canadian resident, filed 2024 taxes |
| Estimated Payment Date | May 2025 (expected first or second week) |
| How to Receive It | Direct deposit or mailed cheque via CRA |
| CRA Account Access | CRA My Account |
What Is the CRA $250 One-Time Payment?
This is a temporary financial relief payment from the federal government to support Canadians facing rising expenses such as:
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Groceries
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Rent
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Utilities
It is a non-taxable benefit, meaning you won’t need to report it as income on your tax return. The CRA will issue it automatically to those who qualify, based on their 2024 tax return.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for the payment if you meet the following:
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You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes
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You are 19 years or older as of January 1, 2025 (or have a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child)
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You filed a 2024 tax return
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Your income falls within eligibility thresholds
Income Thresholds
Expected income limits are based on previous federal relief programs:
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Single individual: Income up to $39,826
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Married/common-law couples: Income up to $52,066
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Families with children: Threshold adjusted based on household income
If your income is slightly above these thresholds, you might still qualify for a reduced payment.
Payment Amount Breakdown
The standard benefit is $250 per eligible individual:
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Single individual: $250
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Couple (combined): $500
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Parents with children: May receive an extra amount depending on household income and family size
This payment is in addition to other federal programs like:
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GST/HST credit
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Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
When Will the Payment Be Issued?
The government is expected to issue payments in May 2025. An official date will be confirmed closer to the time.
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Payments will be made via direct deposit or cheque, based on your CRA account preferences.
How to Check Your Payment Status
To track your payment:
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Log in to your CRA My Account
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Use the CRA MyBenefits mobile app
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Call the CRA directly: 1-800-959-1953
If the payment hasn’t arrived 10 business days after the expected date, then contact the CRA.
How to Ensure You Receive It
Make sure you don’t miss the benefit:
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File your 2024 tax return on time
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Update direct deposit information in your CRA account
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Keep your mailing address current if you prefer to receive a cheque
Why Is This Payment Being Issued?
The federal government is providing this one-time $250 payment to:
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Help offset higher living costs caused by inflation
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Support low- and moderate-income Canadians
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Offer relief for essential expenses like rent, groceries, and utilities
This is part of a larger effort to assist those most affected by economic pressures in 2025.
FAQs
Is the CRA $250 payment taxable?
No, it is completely tax-free.
Do I need to apply for this payment?
No. If you’re eligible, the CRA will issue it automatically based on your 2024 tax return.
Can I receive it if I haven’t filed my taxes?
No. Filing your 2024 tax return is mandatory to be considered for the payment.
Will couples both receive $250?
Yes, eligible couples will receive $250 each, for a combined total of $500.
How will I know when it’s coming?
CRA will update your My Account and send a notice. You can also check via the CRA app or call them directly.
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