The Canadian government has always been running many schemes and tax credits to financially help its citizens. In this episode, GST/HST Credit (Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax Credit) is a scheme through which tax relief is given to low and middle income people. Canada Plan citizens are going to get GST/HST credit of $179 in August 2025.
This credit will not only help in balancing the household budget but will also play an important role in managing rising inflation and cost of living. In this article, we will know in detail who can get this $179 credit, what will be its payment date and what are the eligibility rules for it.
What is GST/HST Credit?
- A tax-free payment aimed at providing extra financial assistance to low and middle-income persons and families is the GST/HST credit granted by the Canadian government.
- GST: This is charged on goods and services in Canada.
- HST: It’s charged in some provinces where provincial tax and GST are blended into one tax.
- The government gives this credit in four installments in a year – January, April, July and October.
- But this $179 credit to be received in August 2025 is specially earmarked for eligible people.
Why $179 credit in August 2025?
The CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) provides financial support to citizens from time to time. The $179 credit for August 2025 is mainly announced under the mid-year adjustment.
This credit is being given to deal with inflationary pressure and rising cost of living. It is like a relief especially for low-income people, senior citizens and families.
Payment Date
- The CRA has announced this special payment and it will be available to eligible citizens in August 2025.
- Usually the CRA makes payments through direct deposit or cheque. Those who have direct deposit facility activated in their CRA account will get this amount directly in their bank account.
- Possible payment date: Between August 5 and August 10, 2025.
Eligibility Criteria

It is important to understand that this credit is not available to everyone. The CRA has set clear eligibility rules –
- Residency: The person must be residing in Canada till the end of the tax year (2024).
- Age Requirement: You must be 19 years of age or older to receive the payment.
If you are under 19, you will only receive a payment if you are:
Income Limit: The GST/HST credit is primarily paid to low- and moderate-income individuals. The CRA determines eligibility based on your net income Your eligibility may end if you have a higher income.
Family Status: The payment amount will be different if you are single, and may vary if you are married or with children. The $179 credit announced in August 2025 is determined on an individual basis.
Mode of Payment
CRA mainly makes payments in two ways:

- Direct Deposit: If you have started a direct deposit facility with CRA, then the credit of $179 will be transferred directly to your bank account.
- Paper Check (Mailed Cheque): If you have not set up a direct deposit, then CRA will send a check to your address. However, it may take more time.
- Payment Amount: This credit announced in August 2025 is a fixed amount – $179 per eligible person
- If you are claiming as a family, your total amount may depend on your family size and number of children.
Role of CRA My Account
The CRA has provided a “My Account” portal through which you can:
- Check your eligibility
- Check the status of your payment
- Set up a direct deposit
- Track all your tax details
- It is therefore advisable to use CRA’s online account to avoid any delays.
Special benefits for seniors
For seniors who are already receiving a pension, Old Age Security (OAS) or Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), this $179 credit is an additional relief the CRA automatically checks their eligibility and issues the payment, without requiring them to apply separately.
Application Process
- The good news is that there is usually no need to apply separately to get the GST/HST credit.
- In filing your annual tax return the CRA will automatically assess inclusion based upon your income and circumstances.
- There is a direct credit of payment into your account or a cheque when you are eligible.
Why is this credit important?
Inflation and the rising cost of living in Canada have become a challenge for many families. In such a situation, the $179 credit given by the government helps in handling house rent, food and other essential expenses This is especially a relief for those who depend on fixed income, such as pensioners and low-income families It is tax-free, meaning you will not have to pay any additional tax on it.
Conclusion
The August 2025 $179 GST/HST credit is an important financial support for Canadians. Its primary purpose is to reduce inflationary pressures and support low/middle-income individuals and families. If you are a Canadian resident and your income is within the CRA’s limits, this amount will be transferred directly to your bank account or received in the form of a cheque.
FAQs
Q1. What is the $179 GST/HST Credit in Canada for August 2025?
A. The $179 GST/HST Credit is a tax-free quarterly payment provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help low- and moderate-income individuals and families offset the cost of goods and services taxes.
Q2. Who is eligible for the $179 GST/HST Credit in August 2025?
A. Eligibility is based on income, marital status, and the number of children. Individuals must have filed their 2024 tax return and meet CRA’s income thresholds.
Q3. When will the $179 GST/HST Credit payment be issued in August 2025?
A. The payment will be distributed on August 5, 2025, directly to eligible recipients via direct deposit or mailed cheque.
Q4. Do I need to apply separately for the GST/HST Credit?
A. No. If you filed your 2024 income tax return, you will automatically be considered for the GST/HST Credit.
Q5. How is the $179 amount calculated?
A. The CRA calculates the payment based on family income and the number of dependents. The maximum basic amount is adjusted depending on your household situation.