GST/HST Credit for Newcomers in Canada: How to Get Up to $519 Back in 2026

Canada charges a federal sales tax on most goods and services — the Goods and Services Tax (GST), or the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) in provinces that combine it with their provincial tax. To help lower-income individuals and families offset this cost, the federal government offers a GST/HST Credit — a quarterly, tax-free payment that can put up to $519 (for a single person, or more for families) back in your pocket each year.

This benefit is often overlooked by newcomers, but it's one of the easiest to receive: you apply simply by filing your Canadian income tax return. Here is everything you need to know.

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 individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset the GST or HST they pay on everyday purchases. It is completely separate from provincial sales tax credits, though some provinces also offer additional amounts on top of the federal credit.

The credit is calculated based on your family's net income from the previous tax year, your marital status, and the number of children you have.

How Much Is the GST/HST Credit in 2026?

For the 2025–2026 benefit year (July 2025 to June 2026), the maximum annual amounts are approximately:

• $519 for a single individual
• $680 for a married or common-law couple
• $179 for each child under 19

These amounts are paid in four equal quarterly instalments — typically in January, April, July, and October. The exact amount begins to phase out once your family net income exceeds approximately $40,000 (single) or $47,500 (married/common-law couple).

Who Qualifies for the GST/HST Credit?

To be eligible, you must:

• Be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes
• Be at least 19 years old (or be/have been married or a parent)
• Have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• File a Canadian income tax return, even if you have zero income

Most newcomers — including permanent residents, refugees, and eligible temporary residents — qualify if they meet the residency and age criteria. Visitor visa holders who are not tax residents of Canada generally do not qualify.

How to Apply: Just File Your Taxes

There is no separate application form for the GST/HST Credit. The CRA automatically assesses your eligibility when you file your annual Canadian income tax return (T1). This is the most important thing to remember:

File your taxes every year, even if you had no income in Canada. If you arrived in Canada partway through the year, you still need to file a return for that year to start receiving benefits.

For Newcomers in Their First Year

If you have never filed a Canadian tax return (e.g., you arrived in 2025 and are filing your first return in spring 2026), the CRA will use your income and status to determine your first year of payments. If you want to start receiving the credit sooner, you can also apply using Form RC151 (GST/HST Credit and Canada Carbon Rebate Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada). This allows you to receive the credit before your first tax return is filed.

To apply with RC151:

1. Download Form RC151 from the CRA website
2. Complete it with your personal information, SIN, family status, and estimated income
3. Mail it to your tax centre or submit it through CRA My Account

How Payments Are Delivered

GST/HST Credit payments are issued by the CRA in the same ways as other federal benefits:

• Direct deposit: The fastest and most reliable method. Set it up through CRA My Account or by calling 1-800-387-1193.
• Cheque: Mailed to your registered address if you have not set up direct deposit.

Payments are typically deposited on the 5th of January, April, July, and October. If the amount is less than $50, the CRA may combine two quarters into a single payment.

Provincial and Territorial Top-Ups

Several provinces and territories offer additional sales tax credits layered on top of the federal GST/HST Credit. These are also administered by the CRA and automatically assessed when you file your taxes:

• Ontario: Ontario Trillium Benefit (includes Ontario Sales Tax Credit)
• British Columbia: BC Climate Action Tax Credit
• Alberta: Alberta Affordability Payments (issued separately)
• Quebec: Solidarity Tax Credit (administered by Revenu Québec)

Tips to Maximize Your GST/HST Credit

• File early: The sooner you file your taxes, the sooner your benefits start.
• Report all eligible family members: Include your spouse or common-law partner and all children in your return to maximize your credit amount.
• Keep your address updated with CRA: Payments by cheque will be returned if your address is wrong.
• File even with zero income: The credit is not dependent on having income — it's based on your residency and family situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GST/HST Credit taxable?

No. It is entirely tax-free and does not need to be reported as income on your tax return.

I arrived in Canada mid-year. Can I get the GST/HST Credit right away?

Yes — use Form RC151 to apply without waiting for tax season. You'll start receiving payments once the CRA processes your application.

My income went up this year. Will I lose the credit?

The credit is based on your previous year's income. Higher income this year will reduce or eliminate payments starting in the next benefit year (July onwards). Low-income years bring higher credit amounts.

Do I get more if I have children?

Yes. Each child under 19 adds approximately $179 per year to your GST/HST Credit. Make sure all your children are registered with the CRA (usually done when applying for the Canada Child Benefit).

Tax season can be confusing for newcomers — especially when you are navigating a new system in a second language. The WelcomeAide AI assistant can help you understand which tax credits and benefits you qualify for, explain the filing process step by step, and point you to the right forms. Visit WelcomeAide now for free, 24/7 guidance in your language.