The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has officially announced the GST/HST Credit January 2026 payment dates, setting the schedule for one of the most anticipated tax-free benefits for lower- and middle-income Canadians. This quarterly credit helps offset the federal GST (Goods and Services Tax) and, where applicable, the HST (Harmonized Sales Tax), especially during months with high living costs like January. If you’re eligible, you can expect your CRA payout on time — and understanding when and why it comes is key to managing your budget.
Who Qualifies for the GST Credit 2026?
Eligibility for the GST credit 2026 is tied to income and family circumstances. To receive this payment in January, your 2024 tax return must be filed and assessed by the CRA. Individuals 19 or older, as well as those with a spouse or common-law partner, or parents living with children, can qualify. Your adjusted family net income is the biggest factor determining whether you receive a full or partial credit.
Here are some eligibility basics:
- You must be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes.
- Your 2024 return must be filed before CRA deadlines.
- Benefits increase with children under 19 in your care.
- Immigrants and newcomers may qualify under specific conditions.
CRA Payout Schedule for GST/HST Credit in 2026
The CRA payout schedule for GST/HST Credit in 2026 remains consistent with quarterly disbursements. The first payment for the year is due in January, followed by April, July, and October. The January payment typically lands around the 5th of the month. Here’s a quick look at the projected 2026 schedule:
| Payment Month | Scheduled Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January 2026 | January 5, 2026 | First quarterly payment of the year |
| April 2026 | April 3, 2026 | Reflects any reassessed entitlements |
| July 2026 | July 5, 2026 | Based on 2025 filing status if updated |
| October 2026 | October 5, 2026 | Final payment of the benefit year |
If you’ve opted for direct deposit, payments arrive faster. Mailed cheques may take longer to reach you.
How the GST/HST Credit Is Calculated
The GST/HST Credit isn’t a fixed amount. The CRA bases your benefit on family size, income, and other criteria. For the July 2025 to June 2026 benefit year, the CRA uses your 2024 income data. The exact amounts for 2026 will be confirmed in mid-2025, but you can expect increases in line with inflation and cost-of-living adjustments.
Here’s an approximate breakdown from recent trends:
- Single adult: Up to $325 per year
- Married or common-law couple: Up to $650
- Each eligible child: Additional $171 per child
These numbers may be adjusted higher for January 2026, depending on federal updates.
What About the HST Refund?
Residents in provinces where HST applies — like Ontario, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island — receive the combined GST/HST credit. The HST refund portion is included automatically, with no need for separate application. As long as you’re eligible for the GST credit 2026, the CRA includes the provincial HST share based on your residency and tax return details.
This integrated model ensures that Canadians get a streamlined benefit reflecting the total sales taxes paid in their province.
Missed a Payment? Here’s What to Do
If you don’t see your GST/HST Credit January 2026 payment by mid-month, first check your CRA My Account. Delays can happen due to reassessments, banking errors, or address changes. If your payment hasn’t arrived within 10 business days, contact the CRA directly.
It’s also smart to verify:
- Your 2024 tax return was filed on time
- Your bank account info is updated with CRA
- No changes in your eligibility occurred (e.g., marital status, income threshold)
Conclusion
The GST/HST Credit January 2026 payment provides valuable financial relief for millions of Canadians. By understanding the CRA payout schedule, eligibility criteria, and calculation method, you can stay on top of your benefits and avoid missing out. Keep your tax filings timely, update your personal details, and check in with CRA tools to ensure you’re covered when the payment window opens in January 2026. Now’s the time to prepare and claim what’s rightfully yours.
FAQs
When is the GST/HST Credit January 2026 Payment Date?
The CRA will issue the January 2026 GST/HST credit on or around January 5, 2026.
How can I check my eligibility for the GST credit 2026?
Log in to your CRA My Account or consult your 2024 tax return. The CRA will automatically assess eligibility once your return is processed.
Is the HST refund separate from the GST credit?
No. If you qualify for the GST credit and live in an HST province, your payment includes the HST portion automatically.
What happens if I miss the January payment?
If you were eligible but didn’t receive it, the CRA may issue a retroactive payment once your return is reassessed or corrected.
Can new immigrants qualify for the GST/HST Credit?
Yes, but they need to fill out Form RC151 and meet Canadian residency and income criteria for the relevant year.
Click here to know more.