With grocery prices hitting record highs across Canada, the federal government has reintroduced a one-time \$628 Grocery Rebate to help ease the pressure on low- and middle-income households. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this rebate is automatically paid to eligible residents without the need for a separate application.
If you’re wondering how much you might receive, when to expect it, and whether you qualify, here’s a detailed look at everything you need to know.
What Is the \$628 Grocery Rebate?
(One-time payment linked to GST/HST credit)
The Canada Grocery Rebate is a federal support program designed to address inflation-driven food costs. Introduced originally in 2023 and continuing in 2025, this one-time benefit is connected to the GST/HST credit system. The CRA determines eligibility based on your recent tax filings and issues the payment automatically.
Program Name | Canada \$628 Grocery Rebate |
---|---|
Administered By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
Purpose | Offset rising grocery costs |
Maximum Rebate Amount | Up to \$628 |
Eligibility | Low- and middle-income households |
Payment Method | Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
Based On | 2023 tax return + prior tax filings |
Payment Date | To be announced |
You don’t need to submit any additional paperwork—the rebate is issued automatically if you meet the criteria.
Who Is Eligible for the Grocery Rebate?
(Minimum age, tax history, and residency rules)
To qualify for the rebate, you must meet all the following conditions:
- Be at least 19 years old on or before the payment date
- Be a Canadian resident at the time of payment
- Have filed your 2023 tax return
- Have also filed your 2021 and 2022 tax returns before April 2025
Note: Even if you earned no income, you are still required to file your tax returns in order to qualify. Filing late or missing returns will disqualify you from receiving the payment.
How Much Can You Receive?
(Based on family size and income bracket)
The rebate is not a flat amount; it depends on your household structure and net income from recent tax returns. Here’s a breakdown of the maximum possible payments:
Household Type | Maximum Rebate Amount |
---|---|
Individual | Up to \$234 |
Couple (no children) | Up to \$387 |
Family with 1 child | Up to \$467 |
Family with 2 children | Up to \$548 |
Family with 3+ children | Up to \$628 |
These are estimated figures, and your actual rebate may vary depending on CRA’s final budget allocations or changes in eligibility rules for 2025.
When Will the Rebate Be Paid?
(Status of CRA’s official announcement)
As of now, the CRA has not confirmed the exact payment date. However, those who are eligible will receive the rebate using the same method through which they receive their GST/HST credit.
- If you have direct deposit set up, the rebate will be transferred straight to your bank account.
- If not, you will receive a cheque by mail at your registered address.
You do not need to apply again if you already receive GST/HST credits. Once the CRA releases the payment, it will be processed automatically.
How to Check Your Payment Status
(Track your rebate online with CRA tools)
If you’re unsure whether your rebate has been sent or want to check the progress, follow these steps:
- Visit canada.ca
- Log in to your CRA My Account
- Go to the “Grocery Rebate Payments” section
- Click on “Check Status” for real-time updates
If you haven’t received your rebate 10 business days after the official release date, contact the CRA helpline at 1-888-863-8662 for assistance.
Update Your Information to Avoid Delays
(Small errors can cause big problems)
To ensure no delay in receiving your payment, it’s critical that your information with the CRA is up to date. This includes:
- Your mailing address
- Your bank account details
- Any changes in marital or family status
Even minor changes can affect your eligibility or delay your rebate.
Why the Grocery Rebate Matters
(Supporting Canadians during high inflation)
With food prices continuing to rise, the Grocery Rebate is more than just a benefit—it’s a much-needed financial cushion for many Canadians. It provides critical support, especially for families with children and individuals on fixed or low incomes. As inflation puts pressure on monthly budgets, this rebate helps offset the rising costs of basic essentials like milk, bread, vegetables, and meat.
The rebate also acts as a complementary support to other federal programs such as:
- GST/HST Credit
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
Together, these programs aim to protect financially vulnerable citizens from economic instability.
Final Thoughts: Take Action, Stay Informed
(How to make sure you don’t miss out)
If you think you may qualify for the \$628 Grocery Rebate, the best action you can take now is to:
- File your 2023 tax return (if not done already)
- Ensure your CRA My Account is active and accurate
- Monitor updates on the CRA website
- Set up direct deposit to avoid cheque delays
Once payment dates are announced, the CRA will issue rebates swiftly and automatically to all who qualify.
Don’t miss out on your chance to receive this valuable financial support. Take the steps today to secure what you’re eligible for.