The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed it will issue a payment of $533 under the GST/HST Credit on December 3, 2025. This payment is part of the quarterly support provided to help low- and modest-income Canadians manage rising expenses, especially during winter months, holiday periods, and times of higher household spending.
What the $533 Means – How the Credit Is Determined
The maximum $533 amount is not fixed for everyone. Your exact payment depends on:
• Your income from the 2024 tax return — Lower or modest incomes qualify for higher benefit amounts.
• Marital or family status — Single individuals, couples, and single parents all receive different amounts.
• Number of children under 19 — More eligible children can increase your total credit.
• Eligibility for additional supplements — Certain reassessments or family changes may adjust your benefit.
Who Is Eligible for the December Payment
To receive the December 3, 2025 payment, you must:
• Have filed your 2024 tax return, even with no income.
• Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
• Have net family income below CRA’s GST/HST threshold.
• Meet at least one of the following:
— Be 19 or older, or
— Have (or had) a spouse/common-law partner, or
— Be a parent living with your child under 19.
Children counted toward the credit must be under 19, live with you, and be primarily supported by you.
When and How the Payment Is Delivered
The credit will be issued on December 3, 2025.
• Direct deposit recipients should receive it earlier the same day.
• Cheque recipients may experience delays depending on mail delivery times.
If your payment doesn’t arrive, check your CRA account, confirm direct deposit details, ensure your tax return was processed, and wait 10 business days before requesting a payment trace.
Why the December Credit Matters Now
This GST/HST credit arrives during a season when Canadians typically face higher costs — heating, groceries, travel, and holiday spending. For many families, this payment offers meaningful relief and helps balance tight budgets.
Canadians can expect several financial supports before the holidays, and 8 CRA Payments Canadians Will Receive Before Christmas 2025 highlights the key programs arriving just in time to ease year-end expenses. These payments include credits like the GST/HST, Climate Action Incentive, Canada Child Benefit, Canada Workers Benefit, and other scheduled deposits that help families manage rising costs. Each benefit has its own eligibility rules and payout dates, ensuring households receive essential financial relief as Christmas approaches. Together, these eight payments offer timely assistance during the festive season.
Conclusion
The upcoming $533 GST/HST credit payment on December 3, 2025 provides important financial support for low- and modest-income Canadians. Your payment amount depends on income, family size, and eligibility rules based on your 2024 tax return. With proper filing and direct deposit set up, most recipients will receive this non-taxable benefit on time, offering timely help during a costly period of the year.
FAQs
Q1: What if I filed my 2024 tax return but haven’t received the December payment?
Wait until the end of the week, verify your CRA direct deposit details and benefit status online, and wait 10 business days before contacting CRA.
Q2: Can children under 19 increase my GST/HST payment?
Yes. Each eligible child living with and supported by you increases your total GST/HST credit.
Q3: Is the GST/HST credit taxable?
No. The GST/HST credit is a non-taxable benefit.