As grocery prices climb across Canada, many households are feeling the strain. Bread, dairy, vegetables, meat—all the staples—have surged in cost.
In response, the federal government’s Canada Grocery Rebate (tied to the GST/HST credit) is helping ease the burden for low- and middle-income Canadians. Below is the latest on October 2025 payments, eligibility rules, amounts, timing, and tips to ensure you get your rebate.
What Is the Canada Grocery Rebate (2025)?
This grocery rebate isn’t a standalone program; it’s a top-up to the GST/HST credit. Qualified households that already receive the GST/HST credit are automatically considered—no separate application is necessary.
It was originally introduced in past years to offset food inflation. In 2025, while there is no completely new “grocery-only” cheque rolled out, the October 2025 round of benefits will include adjustments via the GST/HST credit that functionally support grocery costs.
Who Qualifies? Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility is largely determined via your most recent tax return and your income/family situation. Here are the key criteria:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Be 19 years or older, unless you live with a spouse or have a dependent child.
- Have filed your 2024 tax return (or earlier, if relevant).
- Have a net household income under the thresholds set by CRA for GST/HST credit.
- You must already be eligible (or be eligible) for the GST/HST credit.
Income thresholds may vary depending on province, household size, children, and combined spouse incomes.
Payment Amounts & How They Are Calculated
The rebate added via the GST/HST mechanism depends on family size, children, marital status, and income. While the older “$628 maximum” figure is frequently cited, that was from a prior one-time rebate and is not guaranteed for October 2025.
Here’s a speculative model of how amounts might break down (for illustration):
| Household Type | Possible Rebate Estimate* |
|---|---|
| Single adult with no children | ~$200-$260 |
| Couple, no dependents | ~$280-$350 |
| Single parent, one child | ~$300-$400 |
| Two parents, two children | ~$500-$630 |
| Larger family (3+ children) | Up to ~$600+ |
* These amounts are approximate estimates based on patterns from earlier rebate rounds and may change based on CRA’s final calculations.
October 2025 Payment Dates & Delivery
The grocery rebate component is tied to GST/HST credit payment schedule. For 2025, the GST/HST credits are paid quarterly—October being one of them. The relevant dates:
- October 3, 2025 (or around early October) is the scheduled date for the GST/HST credit payment in that quarter.
- Direct deposit recipients should see their funds in their bank account on that day.
- Cheque recipients may have a delay—typically 5 to 10 business days after the official issue date.
Because weekends or holidays may shift payment dates, early October is the expected window.
Why Some People Don’t Receive It on Time
Delays or non-receipts can be triggered by:
- Late or unfiled tax returns (especially 2024). If CRA hasn’t processed your return, you may be excluded.
- Incorrect banking or mailing information on file with CRA.
- Outstanding CRA debts or garnishments—those can lead to withholding.
- Verification reviews or mismatches in family status / income reporting.
- CRA processing delays, especially in peak times.
How to Check Your Rebate Status
To see whether your October rebate is coming:
- Log into CRA My Account (using your credentials).
- Go to “Benefits & Credits” section.
- Look for “GST/HST Credit & Grocery Rebate (Oct 2025)” status.
- Confirm your payment amount, date, and method.
- If your rebate is missing, verify your 2024 tax return is filed and information (banking, address) is correct.
- Wait 10 business days past the expected payment date before contacting CRA.
Beware of Scams
With any rebate, fraudulent offers increase. Be cautious:
- CRA never sends emails or texts asking for banking info.
- The rebate is never delivered via e-transfer or third-party services.
- Only rely on the official CRA portal or direct deposit/cheque.
- Ignore emails claiming you must “unlock” your rebate by clicking a link.
While there is no brand-new, separate Grocery Rebate cheque scheduled for October 2025, the GST/HST credit payment in early October acts as the functional mechanism through which Canadians receive their rebate top-ups.
If you qualify for the GST/HST credit, and you’ve kept your tax filings and details current, you will likely be eligible for the October benefit—helping offset ongoing grocery inflation.
Stay proactive: file your 2024 return promptly, keep banking/mailing details updated, and monitor CRA My Account so you don’t miss out.
FAQs
Is there a new special $628 grocery rebate in October 2025?
No. The $628 figure comes from past one-time rebate rounds. For October 2025, your benefit will flow through the GST/HST credit mechanism.
Do I need to apply separately for the rebate?
No. If you’re eligible for the GST/HST credit and your 2024 tax return is filed, CRA automatically assesses your eligibility—no separate enrollment is required.
Can my rebate be reduced or withheld?
Yes—if you owe money to the CRA, have outstanding debts, or there are discrepancies in your tax records or banking info, the rebate may be delayed, reduced, or withheld.