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The Canada Revenue Agency has confirmed a major one-time payment under the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, with eligible Canadians set to receive up to $717 as part of a transition from the GST/HST credit.
This Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit payment is designed to help low- and modest-income households deal with rising costs of groceries and everyday essentials. More than 12 million Canadians are expected to benefit from this one-time top-up.
Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Payment Date and What to Expect
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit one-time payment will be issued on June 5, 2026. This payment acts as a bridge before the full Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit officially replaces the GST/HST credit starting in July 2026.
Even though this is part of the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit rollout, some recipients may still see the payment labeled as GST/HST credit. This is because financial systems are still being updated during the transition.
Who Is Eligible for the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Top-Up
To receive the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit one-time payment, you must:
- Have filed your 2024 income tax return
- Have received the GST/HST credit in January 2026
Eligibility for the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit is automatic if you meet these conditions. No separate application is required.
Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Amounts: Up to $717
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit one-time payment equals 50 percent of your total GST/HST credit for the 2025–26 benefit year.
Single Individuals or Single Parents
- $267 with no children
- $441 with one child
- $533 with two children
- $625 with three children
- $717 with four children
Married or Common-Law Couples
- $349 with no children
- $441 with one child
- $533 with two children
- $625 with three children
- $717 with four children
If parents share custody, each parent will receive half of the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit amount they would have received with full custody.
How You Will Receive the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit payment will be delivered the same way as other CRA benefits:
- Direct deposit into your bank account if registered
- Mailed cheque if direct deposit is not set up
Ensuring your details are up to date with the Canada Revenue Agency will help avoid delays.
What Happens After July 2026
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit will officially replace the GST/HST credit starting July 3, 2026. This marks a long-term shift in how the federal government supports Canadians with everyday costs.
Under the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit system:
- Payments will be issued quarterly
- Benefit amounts will increase
- Payments are expected to rise by 25 percent over the next five years
Why the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Matters
The introduction of the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit reflects growing concern over affordability in Canada. Rising food prices and daily expenses have made it harder for many households to manage basic needs.
By replacing the GST/HST credit with the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, the government aims to provide more targeted and meaningful financial support.
For millions of Canadians, this one-time payment is not just extra money. It is immediate relief, followed by a stronger, more consistent benefit system designed to help with groceries and essential living costs.