CRA’s $533 Tax-Free GST Credit Coming in January 2026 — Full Payment Breakdown and Eligibility

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)** has officially confirmed the $533 GST/HST Credit Refund for January 2026, offering tax-free financial assistance to low- and modest-income Canadians at the start of the new year. This quarterly payment is part of the federal government’s ongoing effort to offset the burden of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on essential purchases. The January installment is one of four scheduled payments in 2026 and will be issued on 5 January 2026.

What Is the GST/HST Credit?

The GST/HST credit is a refundable tax-free payment designed to help eligible Canadians recover part of the GST or HST paid on everyday goods and services. It is a federal benefit, administered by the CRA, and paid quarterly—in January, April, July, and October.

Unlike some other benefits, you don’t need to apply separately for this credit. The CRA automatically calculates eligibility and payment amounts using the information from your latest tax return.

January 2026 GST/HST Credit Amounts

The maximum amounts for the January 2026 payment are based on your 2024 income and family composition. Here’s how the benefit breaks down:

• Single individuals: Up to $533
• Married/common-law couples: Up to $698
• Each eligible child (under 19): $184

The final amount you receive may be lower, depending on your adjusted family net income (AFNI).

Who Qualifies for the January 2026 GST/HST Credit?

To be eligible for the GST/HST credit in January 2026, you must meet all of the following criteria:

• Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
• Be 19 years of age or older
• File your 2024 income tax return

Note: Individuals under 19 may still qualify if they:

• Have a spouse or common-law partner, or
• Are a parent living with their child

Eligibility is determined by your family income and household composition as reported on your 2024 tax return.

GST/HST Credit Payment Dates for 2026

The GST/HST credit is issued on a quarterly basis, following a consistent calendar:

Payment Month	Payment Date	Based on Tax Year
January 2026	5 January 2026	2024 return
April 2026	5 April 2026	2024 return
July 2026	5 July 2026	2025 return
October 2026	5 October 2026	2025 return

If the 5th falls on a weekend or holiday, the CRA issues the payment on the previous business day.

How You Will Receive Your Payment

The CRA distributes the GST/HST credit using two primary methods:

• Direct Deposit: If you’ve set it up through your CRA My Account, the payment goes directly into your bank account.
• Mailed Cheque: If you haven’t registered for direct deposit, a paper cheque will be mailed to your listed address.

To avoid delays, ensure your tax return is filed on time and your banking information is up to date.

Is the $533 GST/HST Credit Confirmed for January 2026?

Yes, it is official. The CRA has confirmed the $533 maximum payment for eligible single individuals as part of the January 2026 installment.

Couples and families will receive varying amounts depending on their combined net income and number of eligible dependents.

Payments in January and April 2026 are based on your 2024 income, while the July and October 2026 payments will use your 2025 tax return. Updated rates for the latter two quarters will be released in mid-2026.

Why This Benefit Matters

The GST/HST credit plays a key role in easing the financial burden of sales taxes on Canadians who earn low or modest incomes. With cost-of-living pressures still high in 2026, this quarterly payment offers timely support for essential spending.

Whether it’s helping pay for groceries, transportation, or daily needs, this benefit provides direct relief where it’s needed most.

Key Highlights at a Glance

Detail	Information
Benefit Name	GST/HST Credit Refund
Payment Date	5 January 2026
Maximum for Singles	$533
Maximum for Couples	$698
Per Eligible Child	$184
Payment Frequency	Quarterly
Tax Year Used	2024 (for Jan & Apr), 2025 (Jul & Oct)
Administered By	Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
Application Needed?	No – issued automatically

How to Make Sure You Receive It

If you’re expecting the GST/HST credit in January 2026, take these steps to avoid any issues:

1. File your 2024 tax return before the CRA’s deadline
2. Enroll in direct deposit via CRA My Account
3. Keep your contact and banking information up to date
4. Monitor your CRA messages or mail for confirmation of payment