Many households in Canada are breathing a sigh of relief as the $250 Grocery Rebate is set to land in September 2025. Designed to ease the pressure of rising food costs, this rebate—automatically tied to the GST/HST credit—offers a modest boost for low- and modest-income Canadians.
Whether you’ve been tracking rebates or just heard the rumor, here’s everything you need: payment dates, eligibility rules, estimated amounts, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.
What Is the Grocery Rebate?
The Grocery Rebate is a one-time relief payment provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It isn’t a separate program you apply for—instead, it supplements the GST/HST credit to give extra help with groceries amid inflation. Households eligible for the GST/HST credit will generally get the Grocery Rebate without extra paperwork.
Payment Timeline- When to Expect the Rebate
Here are the key dates and payment timeline for the September 2025 Grocery Rebate:
| Milestone | Date | Action |
|---|---|---|
| CRA confirms rebate schedule | Mid-September 2025 | Announcement of payment date for eligible households |
| Payment issued (direct deposit) | Friday, September 20, 2025 | Most eligible households will receive the rebate via direct deposit |
| Payment by mailed cheque | Within ~10 business days after direct deposit date | For those who don’t use direct deposit |
| Check eligibility deadline | File 2024 tax return by a certain cut-off | To ensure eligibility and correct payment |
Who Qualifies for the Rebate?
Eligibility for the Grocery Rebate depends on several factors, including:
- Being a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- Qualifying for the GST/HST credit; if you already receive that, you likely qualify.
- Filing your 2024 income tax return, even if your income was zero.
- Being 19 years of age or older, or if younger, living with a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child.
- Falling below certain income thresholds (these vary by family size, province, number of children).
How Much You Might Receive
Payment amounts vary depending on your household composition and income. Here are some estimated rebate ranges:
| Household Type | Income Limit (Approx.) | Estimated Rebate Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Single, no children | ≤ ~$49,000 | ~$234 |
| Couple, no children | ≤ ~$58,000 | ~$306 |
| Family with 1 child | Income within modest threshold | ~$387 |
| Family with 2 children | Slightly higher income but still eligible | ~$456-$612 |
| Seniors / GIS recipients | Qualify via GST/HST + low income | Rebate ~in same range as singles/families depending on province |
These amounts are rough estimates; your actual payment may be higher or lower depending on your tax return, province, number of dependent children, and whether you use direct deposit or mailed cheque.
How It’s Paid & What to Do to Prepare
- Most payments are direct deposited to the same bank account CRA uses for your GST/HST credit or other government benefit payments.
- If you don’t use direct deposit, the mailed cheque option will be used, which can take up to about 10 business days after the direct deposit date.
- To ensure you get the rebate without interruption:
- Make sure your 2024 tax return is filed and correct.
- Confirm your banking details and mailing address with CRA.
- Check your eligibility for GST/HST credit so that the rebate can be automatically processed.
Why This Rebate Matters Now
- Food inflation remains a major concern; grocery prices have steadily increased across the country, hitting low- and modest-income families hardest.
- Even though $250 may not solve all financial pressures, this rebate gives households breathing room. For some, it covers essentials like fresh produce, dairy, or pantry items.
- The simplicity (no extra application) means quicker relief with less red tape.
The Canada Grocery Rebate in September 2025 offers timely financial relief for many low- and modest-income Canadians facing high food costs.
With an expected payment date of September 20, 2025, this one-time rebate tied to the GST/HST credit is automatically issued to eligible households—no extra paperwork, just preparation by ensuring your tax return and banking details are in good standing.
While $250 won’t erase every bill, it’s a meaningful gesture that underscores the importance of support programs in today’s economy. If you’re expecting this rebate, double-check your eligibility, keep your CRA information updated, and get ready for a little boost in your September finances.
FAQs
Do I need to apply separately for the grocery rebate?
No. If you’re eligible for the GST/HST credit and your 2024 tax return is filed, the rebate should arrive automatically.
When exactly will I see the $250 rebate deposited?
For most eligible households, the payment will be direct deposited on Friday, September 20, 2025. Those getting a cheque will see it up to about 10 business days later.
Will everyone receive the full $250?
Not necessarily. The actual amount depends on your household size, income, number of dependent children, and province. Some will receive less; others (meeting criteria) may get close to the full estimated amounts.