Many Canadians are preparing for higher winter expenses, including increased grocery prices, heating bills, and holiday spending.
To support low-income and modest-income households during this financially stressful season, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has scheduled a new GST/HST credit payment of up to $533 on December 3, 2025.
This payment is part of the government’s ongoing effort to help families manage rising living costs. In this article, we explain who qualifies, how the payment is calculated, what the $533 amount represents, and what to do if your deposit does not arrive on time.
What the $533 GST/HST Payment Means
The amount of $533 is the maximum possible payment a household may receive for the December GST/HST credit cycle.
Not everyone gets the full amount because the CRA calculates the payment using several factors such as income, family size, and number of eligible children. Families with more children and lower income usually receive higher payments.
How the GST/HST Credit Is Calculated
The GST/HST credit amount is mainly based on your 2024 tax return. The CRA looks at your net income to decide your payment.
• Lower income results in a higher credit.
• Higher income reduces the credit amount.
Your marital and family status also impacts the total. Single individuals usually receive smaller payments compared to couples. Single parents may receive extra child-related amounts because they handle parenting responsibilities alone.
The number of children in your household also affects the credit. Each child under age 19 adds to the payment total.
Some households may receive additional supplements based on disability support, reassessments, or provincial top-ups.
Who Qualifies for the December 2025 GST/HST Payment
To receive the December 3 payment, you must file your 2024 tax return, even if you had no income. You must also be a Canadian resident for tax purposes and meet the CRA’s income limits. Additionally, you must fit at least one of the following conditions:
• You are 19 years or older
• You have a spouse or common-law partner
• You are a parent living with your child
Children included in the calculation must be under 19 years old, live with you full-time or part-time, and be mainly supported by you.
Typical GST/HST Amounts for December 2025
| Family Type | Expected Payment Range |
|---|---|
| Single Individual | $100 – $160 |
| Couple or Single Parent | $200 – $300 |
| Families with Children | $350 – $533 |
When the Payment Will Arrive
The CRA has confirmed December 3, 2025, as the official payment date.
• Direct deposit users usually receive the money early in the day.
• Paper cheque users may wait longer because delivery depends on Canada Post.
If your payment does not show up on time, the CRA recommends waiting up to 10 business days before requesting a payment trace.
Why Some Canadians Receive More
Several factors can affect the amount you get, including adjusted family income, shared parenting arrangements, CRA reassessments, changes in marital status, provincial supplements, or deductions for past overpayments.
These differences explain why payment amounts vary widely across households.
What To Do If You Do Not Receive the Payment
If you believe you qualify for the December GST/HST credit but do not receive it:
• Check CRA My Account for updates
• Confirm your direct deposit information
• Make sure your 2024 tax return was filed and processed
• Review any recent CRA notices
• Wait the full 10 business days before contacting CRA
How This Payment Supports Families
The December GST/HST payment is especially helpful because it arrives during one of the most expensive months of the year. Households often use it for groceries, winter clothing, utility bills, public transit, childcare, and holiday-related needs.
With inflation continuing to affect daily essentials, this payment offers meaningful financial relief when families need it the most.
The $533 GST/HST payment scheduled for December 3, 2025, is an important support for Canadians facing rising winter expenses. Whether used for groceries, bills, transportation, or holiday needs, the payment helps reduce financial stress at a critical time of the year.
Even if you do not receive the full amount, understanding the eligibility rules and payment process ensures that you receive every dollar you qualify for.
FAQs
- Who gets the full $533 GST/HST payment?
Only families with lower income and eligible children may receive the full amount. Most households receive a smaller payment depending on income and family size. - Do I need to apply for the GST/HST credit?
No. The CRA automatically calculates the credit using your 2024 tax return. You only need to file your taxes. - What if my December GST/HST payment does not arrive?
Check CRA My Account, confirm your banking details, ensure your tax return is processed, and wait up to 10 business days before contacting CRA.