In recent years, Canada has seen a sharp increase in food and grocery prices. The proportion of food in household budgets has increased, putting pressure on low- and middle-income families. In this context, the government has begun considering some relief measures.
For example, in 2023, the CRA launched a one-time payment called a “grocery rebate,” providing eligible individuals with amounts ranging from $234 to $628, depending on family size and income there is now talk of a new or additional grocery rebate program for 2025, with a designated amount of up to $628. For example, some sources suggest that “families with four children” could receive the maximum assistance amount of $628.
Has this program been officially announced?
Although several news sources and websites are discussing this “$628 Grocery Rebate 2025,” it’s unclear whether the government has officially implemented it or whether its full details have been made public. For example, one source states that it’s a “proposed” measure, and the details are still unclear So, if you’re reading this article, consider it an “anticipated aid” until an official announcement is made.
Key Points to Know
- This aid amount can be up to $628: especially for families with children.
- Eligibility will generally depend on your eligibility for the CRA’s GST/HST credit (Goods & Services Tax / Harmonized Sales Tax).
- The payment process may be automated: no separate application may be necessary.
- The date and methods of payment are not yet fully clear: but it is likely to be issued in or around December 2025, similar to the GST/HST credit.
Eligibility: Who can participate?
If this program is implemented, the general criteria below will be helpful—however, remember: details may change after official guidelines are issued.
- You must be a tax resident in Canada.
- You must have filed your previous year’s (2024) income tax & benefit return.
- You must be eligible for the GST/HST credit or be considered under the same system as previous programs.
- Your adjusted family net income must be below a certain threshold—this threshold may depend on family size, etc.
- Family status (single person, married or cohabiting, number of children) and bank statements must be updated.
Assistance amount based on estimated income/family size
- Single person—The estimated maximum amount could be up to a few hundred dollars.
- Two people (married or cohabiting)—slightly more.
- Families with two or more children—the maximum amount reached approximately $628 in the previous round.
Notes
- If you haven’t filed your tax return, you won’t be eligible.
- Payments may be delayed if your bank account details or address are out of date.
- The payment amount will depend on the information you recently filed—such as marital status, number of children, income, etc.
Payment Process: When and How Can You Get Assistance?
Payment Date
Exact dates have not yet been released. For example, some sources indicate that the first payment could be between October 7 and 15, 2025.
Payment Method
If you have set up direct deposit with the CRA, the amount will be credited directly to your bank account.
If you haven’t set up direct deposit, it may be mailed by check—which may be slightly delayed.
What should you prepare for?
- Go to CRA My Account and ensure your bank details, address, and family information (children, marital status) are updated.
- If your tax return hasn’t been filed yet, do so on time.
- Get information from the CRA’s official website and beware of scams—never share personal information via email or text.
Why is this assistance important?
- Rising food prices have increased the burden on many families. In such a situation, one-time financial relief can directly impact household budgets.
- This rebate signals the government’s commitment to formulating policies that address basic living costs.
- This will provide support to low-income and middle-income groups, alleviating some of their grocery expenses.
Precautions and Learnings
- Avoid Scams: Many fake messages, calls, or links are circulating, claiming to “Apply Now” or “Give Your Bank Details.” The CRA never asks for personal bank details in this manner via email/message.
- Don’t panic if you haven’t received your payment yet: The program hasn’t been fully announced yet, and processing may take time.
- Monitor future policies: If this rebate is a one-time one, check out the continuation of regular assistance programs like the GST/HST credit, the Canada Child Benefit, etc.
- File your tax returns on time: Eligibility for most such assistance programs depends on tax return information.
Conclusion
If you live in Canada and fall into a low- to moderate-income household, consider this “$628 Grocery Rebate 2025” program as a way to prepare. While it’s not yet fully official, you can prepare for what’s ahead—keeping your tax returns updated, correcting your bank statements, and checking your CRA account information. You can take advantage of this assistance as soon as the government announces details.
FAQs
Q1. What is the $628 Grocery Rebate 2025 in Canada?
A. It’s a proposed one-time payment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help low and middle-income Canadians manage rising food costs.
Q2. Who is eligible for the $628 grocery support payment?
A. Canadians who qualify for the GST/HST credit or have low-to-moderate annual income may be eligible for the $628 rebate.
Q3. When will the $628 grocery rebate be paid?
A. The payment is expected to be issued by the CRA in November 2025, either through direct deposit or mailed cheque.
