CRA $680 Payment: If you’re one of the many Canadians who recently discovered an unexpected deposit in your bank account labeled from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), you’re not alone. In 2025, thousands of people across the country received a surprise $680 payment, leaving many wondering where it came from and why they got it. This isn’t a scam, a random bonus, or a mistake. It’s part of a vital government benefit designed to ease the burden of daily expenses—especially for those with lower or moderate incomes.
This article unpacks everything you need to know about the CRA $680 Payment. We’ll explain who qualifies, how much you could receive, when payments are issued, and why some people get it as a lump sum rather than quarterly installments. Whether you’re a student, a new adult, or supporting a family, this guide will help you determine your eligibility and how to ensure you don’t miss out in the future.
CRA $680 Payment
The CRA $680 Payment in 2025 is not a random windfall—it’s the maximum annual benefit under the federal GST/HST credit for eligible couples. This tax-free benefit is automatically distributed every quarter to help Canadians manage the cost of goods and services taxes. For some, it’s delivered as a quarterly payment; for others, it arrives in a lump sum if their calculated credit is below $50 per period. Understanding how this credit works, how it’s calculated, and how to stay eligible can ensure you receive this much-needed support on time, every time.
Overview Table
| Household Type | Annual Credit | Quarterly Amount |
| Single Adult | Up to $519 | Up to $129.75 |
| Married/Common-Law | Up to $680 | Up to $170 |
| Each Child under 19 | +$179 per child | +$44.75 per quarter |
What Is It
The GST/HST credit is a federal benefit provided by the CRA to help low- and moderate-income Canadians offset the impact of sales taxes. It’s not a rebate for purchases; instead, it’s a direct payment made every three months. It applies to individuals, couples, and families and is calculated based on your previous year’s income and family circumstances.
In 2025, the CRA $680 Payment is the maximum benefit a couple with no children can receive over 12 months. The payment is split across January, April, July, and October. If your combined credit is under $50 quarterly, the CRA may pay it all at once in July, which often surprises people who don’t track their benefit entitlements closely.
Who Qualifies
To be eligible for the CRA’s GST/HST credit, including the CRA $680 Payment, you must meet these basic criteria:
- Be 19 or older, or under 19 but have a spouse/common-law partner or are a parent living with your child.
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- File your taxes, even if you had zero income. The CRA uses your tax return to determine your eligibility and calculate your benefit.
The amount you receive depends on:
- Your adjusted family net income.
- Your marital status.
- The number of eligible children in your household.
Even individuals or families earning modest incomes can qualify. For example, single adults earning more than $49,000 generally do not qualify, but families with dependents can receive support with slightly higher household incomes.
Payment Schedule
The CRA issues GST/HST credit payments every three months. The 2025 payment dates are:
- January 3
- April 4
- July 4
- October 3
Payments are sent via direct deposit or cheque. Direct deposit is the fastest, most secure option and is encouraged by the CRA. If your total yearly entitlement is less than $200, it may be paid all at once in July.
It’s important to check your CRA My Account regularly. This online portal allows you to track payments, view past credits, and update personal details like your address or banking info to avoid delays.
How It’s Calculated
The CRA uses information from your 2023 tax return to determine eligibility for payments from July 2024 to June 2025. The amount is based on your:
- Total family income
- Marital status
- Number of children under 19
Here’s a sample breakdown:
Let’s say John and Maria, a couple living in Alberta, earned a combined income of $35,000 in 2023. They have two children under 19. Their 2025 GST/HST credit would be:
- Couple: $680
- Two children: $179 × 2 = $358
- Total: $1,038, or $259.50 every quarter
This money can help them cover childcare costs, groceries, or utilities.
Why It’s a “Surprise”
Many people report receiving this payment without expecting it. Here’s why:
- You may have filed your taxes late, causing a retroactive lump sum.
- You recently turned 19, making you newly eligible.
- Your income or marital status changed, increasing your eligibility.
- The CRA reassessed your file and issued a back payment.
Always check your CRA My Account for a breakdown of your benefits. If you’re unsure why you received money, the CRA’s online tools are your best resource.
How to Stay Eligible
The best way to ensure you receive your GST/HST credit is to:
- File your taxes on time every year—even with no income.
- Keep your information updated, especially your marital status and number of dependents.
- Use CRA My Account to track payments, update your banking details, and view any CRA correspondence.
- Set up direct deposit to avoid missing or delayed cheques.
Additional Benefit Tips
Maximize the value of your CRA payments by combining them with other federal and provincial credits:
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – Paid monthly to eligible families.
- Climate Action Incentive – Quarterly payments for residents of qualifying provinces.
- Provincial GST top-ups – Some provinces offer additional support on top of the federal credit.
These credits can make a big difference when budgeting, especially when timed with GST/HST quarterly deposits.
FAQs
1. What is the CRA $680 Payment for?
It’s the maximum annual GST/HST credit for a married or common-law couple without children, distributed quarterly.
2. Do I need to apply for it?
No. It’s automatic, as long as you file your taxes and meet the eligibility criteria.
3. When will I receive the next GST credit in 2025?
The next scheduled payment is on July 4, 2025.
4. What if I didn’t receive my payment?
Check your CRA My Account for updates or contact the CRA directly if nothing appears by your expected date.
5. Can the amount change mid-year?
Yes. If your income or family status changes, the CRA may reassess and adjust your payments accordingly.
Final Thoughts
The CRA $680 Payment is more than just a financial boost—it’s part of Canada’s long-standing commitment to easing the cost of living for low- and modest-income households. Whether you receive it quarterly or as a lump sum, this credit can play an essential role in your financial stability.
Don’t leave money on the table. File your taxes, stay informed, and keep your CRA profile up to date. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with someone who might also benefit. To get updates on future payments, eligibility changes, and more money-saving tips, subscribe to our newsletter today and stay ahead of your finances.
