In January 2026, the Prime Minister announced changes to the GST/HST credit in response to rising costs at grocery stores aimed at giving low- and middle-income Canadians more financial support. As of July 3, the Canada Grocery and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) will replace the GST/HST credit.

Eligible Canadians should have received a one-time payment on June 5 and will continue to receive quarterly CGEB payments, replacing GST/HST credits. In addition, quarterly payments will receive a 25 per cent boost.

A family of four, currently receiving $1,086 from the GST/HST credit, will see an increase of as much as $805 this year, followed by about $1,358 a year over the next four years.

A single person could receive up to $950 this year, a $402 increase from the current amount and about $679 annually for the next four years.

The requirements for the CGEB eligibility remain unchanged; you must be a resident of Canada, at least 19 years old (or under 19 with a spouse, common-law partner, or a parent), and have filed your most recent tax return with the CRA.

The CGEB is paid out quarterly. In 2026-2027, payments will be made on July 3, 2026, October 5, 2026, January 5, 2027, and April 5, 2027

February 6, 2026, Ottawa, Ontario Department of Finance Canada