With food prices still high across Canada, many are wondering if the federal government will bring back the much-needed $628 Grocery Rebate in 2025.
Although there’s no official word yet, knowing how the program worked before can help you stay ready if it happens again. Let’s look into the details in simple, everyday language.
Table of Content
Overview
Here’s a quick breakdown of what the Grocery Rebate looked like:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rebate Name | Grocery Rebate |
| Maximum Amount | Up to $628 |
| Eligibility | Based on tax returns and GST/HST status |
| Last Known Payment | July 5, 2023 |
| Application Required? | No, automatic payment |
| Next Possible Payment | Could match GST/HST dates in 2025 |
| CRA Website | canada.ca |
This rebate was a one-time payment to help low- and moderate-income families with their rising grocery bills. If a new version comes in 2025, it might follow a similar structure.
Purpose
The Grocery Rebate was a smart move by the government to ease the pressure when grocery prices skyrocketed. It wasn’t something you applied for separately — it landed automatically in your bank account or mailbox if you qualified. Think of it like a financial safety net thrown at just the right moment.
Eligibility
Back in 2023, you had to meet some simple requirements:
- Be at least 19 years old
- File your taxes (even if you earned nothing)
- Qualify for the GST/HST credit
- Meet income and family size guidelines
The amount you received depended on how many people were in your family and how much you earned.
Example payouts:
| Family Situation | Rebate Amount |
|---|---|
| Single, no children | $234 |
| Single, 1 child | $387 |
| Single, 2 children | $467 |
| Single, 3 children | $548 |
| Single, 4 children | $628 |
| Couple, no children | $306 |
| Couple, 1 child | $387 |
| Couple, 2 children | $467 |
| Couple, 3 children | $548 |
| Couple, 4 children | $628 |
The bigger your family, the higher the rebate.
Payment
The last payment was made on July 5, 2023, and was bundled with the quarterly GST/HST credit payment. If a 2025 Grocery Rebate happens, it might land on similar dates:
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 3, 2025
It’s smart to mark these dates in your calendar just in case.
Preparation
Even though nothing is confirmed yet, it’s easy to get ready:
- File Your Taxes Make sure you file your 2024 tax return, even if you didn’t earn much or anything at all. Your eligibility depends on your tax info.
- Update Your CRA Account Login at canada.ca and check your mailing address and direct deposit details. One wrong digit could delay your money.
- Watch Your Family Status If you had a baby, got married, or separated recently, update your CRA profile. It can affect the size of any future rebate.
- Stay Informed Check government updates regularly, especially around the federal budget announcements or GST payment dates.
Being prepared now means you won’t miss out if help comes your way again. It’s like keeping an umbrella in the car—you hope you won’t need it, but it’s great to have just in case.
FAQs
Is the Grocery Rebate confirmed for 2025?
No, there’s no official confirmation yet.
Who was eligible for the 2023 rebate?
Low- and moderate-income families based on GST/HST credit.
How much could a single person get?
Up to $234 without children.
When was the last Grocery Rebate paid?
July 5, 2023.
How do I prepare for a possible 2025 rebate?
File taxes, update CRA info, and stay informed.
