The GST/HST credit is a small but important payment that helps low- and middle-income Canadians manage daily expenses. It is paid four times a year by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help cover the tax you pay on goods and services.
While most people get this credit on time, many Canadians were surprised in 2025 when they did not receive their payment. Let’s break down the main reasons this happens, how to fix it, and what you can do to avoid missing future payments.
How the GST/HST Credit Works
The GST/HST credit is given every July, October, January, and April. The CRA decides how much you receive based on:
- Family net income
- Marital status
- Number of children under 19
Even if you earn no income, you must file a tax return so the CRA can check your eligibility.
Common Reasons Canadians Missed Payments in 2025
1. Late or Missing Tax Return
Not filing your tax return on time is the biggest reason people miss the GST/HST credit. Without your return, the CRA cannot calculate or release your payment.
2. Wrong or Old Personal Information
If you moved or changed your bank account and didn’t update the CRA, your payment may have been delayed. Outdated details often stop payments until they are corrected.
3. Income Too High
The GST/HST credit is only for low- and modest-income households. If your adjusted family income went above the limit, your credit could have been reduced or canceled.
4. Not Enrolled in Direct Deposit
Canadians who did not sign up for direct deposit had to wait for paper cheques, which are slower and may even get lost or delayed.
5. CRA Processing Delays
Sometimes, the CRA takes longer to process tax returns or updates. Even if you are eligible, this delay may cause late payments.
Why You Might Miss Your GST/HST Credit
| Reason | Effect on Payment |
|---|---|
| Late or missing tax return | Payment delayed or not issued |
| Wrong address or bank details | CRA holds or cancels payment until corrected |
| Income above limit | Credit reduced or canceled |
| Not enrolled in direct deposit | Slower payment through cheque |
| CRA processing delays | Payment sent later than schedule |
How to Check Your GST/HST Credit Status
If you missed your 2025 payment, here’s how you can confirm:
- CRA My Account – Log in online to see your payment history.
- Phone the CRA – Speak with an agent to confirm details.
- Review your tax return – Make sure you filed it correctly with updated information.
Steps to Avoid Missing Future Payments
- File taxes on time, even with no income.
- Update your address and banking details regularly.
- Sign up for direct deposit to get money faster.
- Read CRA notices to know your payment dates.
- Check your family income to see if you still qualify.
What to Do if You Already Missed Your Payment
If you did not get your GST/HST credit in 2025:
- Contact the CRA to confirm eligibility.
- File or amend your tax return if missing.
- Request a recalculation if there was an error in your income or family status.
Once your details are fixed, the CRA usually issues the payment as soon as possible.
Missing a GST/HST credit payment in 2025 can be stressful, but it often comes down to small issues like late tax returns, outdated personal details, or CRA delays.
By filing your taxes on time, keeping your information updated, and enrolling in direct deposit, you can make sure you get this important support without problems. Staying active on your CRA account and checking notices regularly will help you avoid delays and keep your payments coming smoothly.
FAQs
No, once you file your tax return, the CRA automatically checks if you qualify each year.
Yes, you can still get the credit, but you must file your tax return even with zero income.
Yes, once your information is verified, the CRA will release the payment, even if it’s delayed.