With inflation still high, many Canadians are asking if they’ll get a $698 GST/HST payment in August 2025. The truth? That viral claim isn’t exactly accurate — and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) payment schedule tells a different story.
Let’s break down what’s fact, what’s fiction, and how much you can actually expect.
Credit
The GST/HST Credit is a tax-free benefit paid four times a year to help low- and modest-income Canadians offset the cost of sales tax on everyday essentials.
It’s managed by the CRA, and you don’t need to apply separately — your eligibility is determined automatically when you file your tax return.
$698 Claim
That $698 figure you’ve seen floating around isn’t a special August 2025 payment. Instead, it’s the maximum annual amount a married or common-law couple can get based on 2024 income.
The credit is never paid as one big lump sum. It’s split into four equal payments.
Amounts
Here’s what the GST/HST Credit looks like in 2025:
| Household Type | Annual Max Credit | Approx. Quarterly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Single Adult | $533 | ~$133 |
| Married/Couple | $698 | ~$174 |
| Each Child (<19) | $184 | ~$46 |
These amounts depend on your 2024 tax return and may be lower if your income is near the threshold.
Dates
The 2025 GST/HST credit payment schedule is:
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
No payment is officially set for August. If you see money then, it’s likely a retroactive adjustment due to a late filing or CRA correction.
Eligibility
To qualify, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Be at least 19 years old (or have a spouse/child)
- Meet income limits:
- Single: under ~$52,255
- Couple with 4 kids: under ~$69,015
No separate application is required — just file your tax return.
Newcomers
If you’re new to Canada, you’ll need to submit:
- Form RC151 (individuals)
- Form RC66 (if you have children)
Once you file your first return, the CRA will process your credit.
Why Rumors Spread
Social media often misreads the annual maximum as a one-time bonus. But the GST/HST credit follows a strict quarterly schedule, not random lump-sum payouts.
In short: no $698 windfall in August. The next official payment is October 3, 2025 — so make sure your tax return is filed and your CRA details are up to date.
FAQs
Is there a $698 GST/HST payment in August 2025?
No, the $698 is the annual max for couples, paid quarterly.
When is the next GST/HST credit date?
October 3, 2025.
Do I need to apply for the GST/HST credit?
No, just file your tax return.
How much can a single adult get in 2025?
Up to $533 per year, paid quarterly.
Why did I get a GST/HST payment in August?
It’s likely a retroactive adjustment, not a scheduled payment.
