Date: June 3, 2026 l By: Dew Washer
OTTAWA, Canada — Millions of Canadians are expected to receive extra financial support this week as the federal government begins issuing a one-time GST/HST credit top-up payment aimed at helping households manage rising grocery and everyday living costs. The payment rollout is scheduled to begin on June 5 and will reach eligible recipients automatically through the Canada Revenue Agency.
The additional payment forms part of the federal government’s transition from the current GST/HST credit program to the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, which is scheduled to launch in July 2026. Under the transition plan, qualifying Canadians will receive a one-time payment equal to 50 per cent of their annual GST/HST credit amount for the July 2025 to June 2026 benefit year.
According to the Canada Revenue Agency, more than 12 million Canadians with low and modest incomes are expected to benefit from the temporary top-up. Eligibility is based on having filed a 2024 tax return and having qualified for the GST/HST credit payment issued in January 2026. No separate application is required.
The amount recipients receive will vary depending on household income and family size. Maximum one-time payments could reach up to $267 for a single individual without children, $349 for couples without children, and as much as $717 for larger eligible households with four children.
Government officials said the payment is intended to provide immediate relief while the expanded support system comes into effect later this summer. Beginning in July, quarterly payments under the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit are expected to rise by 25 per cent while maintaining the current income-based eligibility structure.
Families already enrolled in direct deposit with the CRA are expected to receive funds directly into their bank accounts, while paper cheques will continue to be mailed to recipients who have not registered for electronic payments. Officials noted that some bank records may still display the payment under the existing GST/HST credit label while financial systems are updated.
Economic analysts say the move reflects continuing government efforts to address affordability pressures as food and household expenses remain a major concern for many families across the country. Parliamentary budget estimates project billions of dollars in additional support over the coming years through the updated program structure.
For eligible Canadians, the payment arriving this week represents both immediate relief and the beginning of a broader change to how federal affordability support will be delivered in the years ahead.