Canadians will receive a GST top-up payment beginning June 5, 2026. This initiative is part of the federal government’s plan to provide additional financial support as the country transitions to the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) next month.
What is the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit?
Announced earlier this year, the CGEB will replace the GST/HST credit starting July 2026. Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized that this measure aims to assist over 12 million Canadians in managing everyday living costs, including groceries.
The CGEB program will maintain the same structure as GST payments. However, it will offer quarterly payments that are 25% higher than the current GST payments for five years.
Eligibility for the GST Top-Up Payment
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) advises that the additional GST top-up will equal 50% of the total annual GST credit for eligible individuals. This credit applies to the period from July 2025 to June 2026.
- Eligible individuals or households must have received the January 2026 GST payment to qualify.
- The additional amount varies depending on the number of children and reported net income on the 2024 tax return.
How Much Can You Expect?
The CRA outlines several potential top-up payments based on household circumstances:
- No Children: Up to $267
- One Child: Up to $441
- Two Children: Up to $533
- Three Children: Up to $625
- Four Children: Up to $717
For couples or common-law partners, the amounts are the same, with eligible individuals receiving half if they share custody of a child.
Income Thresholds for Eligibility
Eligible individuals must have a net income that does not exceed specific thresholds:
| Number of Children | Maximum Income (Individual) | Maximum Income (Couple) |
|---|---|---|
| No Children | $56,181 | $59,481 |
| One Child | $63,161 | $63,161 |
| Two Children | $66,841 | $66,841 |
| Three Children | $70,521 | $70,521 |
| Four Children | $74,201 | $74,201 |
Payment Process
Payments will start being issued on June 5, 2026. These payments will still be categorized as the GST/HST credit until the new system is implemented. Eligible individuals who have previously registered for direct deposit will receive their payments directly in their bank accounts. Others will receive paper checks by mail.
Possible Reasons for Not Receiving the Payment
If you do not receive the GST top-up payment, several issues may apply:
- You did not file your 2024 tax return.
- You were not eligible for the GST credit in January 2026.
- Your partner already received the payment on behalf of the household.
- The payment may offset any outstanding balance owed to the CRA.
With the upcoming changes, Canadians are encouraged to stay informed about their eligibility and the new grocery benefit program. The goal is to ensure that financial support reaches those who need it most.
