GST/HST Credit
A tax-free quarterly payment to help low-to-modest income individuals and families offset the GST/HST they pay.
What is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST Credit is a tax-free quarterly payment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) designed to help low-to-modest income individuals and families offset the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) they pay on purchases. Payments are made in January, April, July, and October.
Why It Matters for Newcomers
As a newcomer with modest income, you are likely eligible for the GST/HST Credit. The payments are automatic once you file your first Canadian tax return. For individuals, the annual credit can be several hundred dollars. Families with children receive additional amounts.
How to Get It
You are automatically assessed for the GST/HST Credit when you file your annual tax return. No separate application is needed. If you arrived in Canada partway through the year, you can complete Form RC151 (GST/HST Credit Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada) to apply for the remaining quarters.
Quick Tip
File your tax return as soon as possible after arriving in Canada, even if you have no income to report. This triggers your eligibility for the GST/HST Credit and starts the quarterly payments. Many newcomers miss out on hundreds of dollars simply by delaying their first tax filing.