Food inflation continues to hit Canadians hard, with grocery prices rising faster than average living costs over the past two years. To combat growing financial strain, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has approved a one-time $628 Grocery Rebate, scheduled for November 15, 2025.
This rebate will be issued automatically through the GST/HST credit system, meaning eligible Canadians do not need to apply or submit any paperwork. For millions of families, seniors, and low-income workers, this rebate offers crucial temporary support during a period of intense economic pressure.
What Exactly Is the Canada Grocery Rebate?
The grocery rebate is a targeted financial support measure designed to offset high food costs for low- and middle-income households. It mirrors the structure of the 2023 Grocery Rebate but features higher maximum payments to reflect inflation in 2024–2025.
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The rebate is tax-free and will be sent via direct deposit or cheque, depending on how the recipient receives their GST/HST credit.
Overview Table: Canada Grocery Rebate November 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Canada Grocery Rebate 2025 |
| Payment Date | November 15, 2025 |
| Administered By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Maximum Payment | Up to $628 per household |
| Eligibility | Based on 2024 tax return + GST/HST rules |
| Application Required? | No — automatic payment |
| Method | Direct deposit or cheque |
Who Qualifies for the $628 Grocery Rebate in November 2025?
Eligibility Based on GST/HST Credit Rules
CRA determines eligibility using the same criteria as the GST/HST credit. Canadians must file their 2024 tax return to be considered.
Eligibility Requirements
- Filed 2024 Tax Return
- Income Limits:
- Single adults: Under $45,000 net income
- Couples: Under $65,000 combined income
- Families with children: Additional amounts for dependents under age 19
- Residency: Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Automatic Eligibility:
Recipients of: - GST/HST credit
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Old Age Security (OAS)
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
are automatically evaluated for the rebate.
“This grocery rebate ensures that support goes to Canadians who need it most, especially seniors, parents, and low-income earners,” said Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment and Workforce Development.
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How Much Will Canadians Receive?
Estimated Rebate Amounts by Household Type
| Household Type | Maximum Rebate (Nov 2025) |
|---|---|
| Single Individual | $234 |
| Couple (No Children) | $306 |
| Family with One Child | $487 |
| Family with Two or More Children | $628 |
These amounts may vary slightly due to provincial differences.
Economist Dr. Trevor Tombe noted, “While $600 might not change the world, it helps many families stretch their grocery budgets during difficult times.”
Payment Schedule: When and How the CRA Will Pay
The CRA will issue the rebate on November 15, 2025. Payments will be deposited automatically.
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Payment Schedule Snapshot
| Payment Type | Date | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Grocery Rebate | Nov 15, 2025 | Direct deposit or cheque |
| GST/HST Credit | Oct 5, 2025 | Direct deposit |
| Canada Carbon Rebate | Oct 15, 2025 | Direct deposit |
| CCB | Nov 20, 2025 | Direct deposit |
| OAS/GIS | Nov 27, 2025 | Direct deposit |
How to Ensure You Receive Your Payment
- Update banking details on CRA My Account
- Ensure mailing address is correct
- File your 2024 tax return on time
- Confirm GST/HST credit eligibility
CRA official Rachel Wernick confirmed:
“You do not need to apply. If you qualify for GST/HST credits, the rebate will be sent automatically.”
Why the $628 Grocery Rebate Matters
Short-Term Financial Relief
Food prices have increased over 20% since 2023, placing additional strain on low-income households. The rebate directly helps families purchase:
- Groceries
- Baby formula
- School lunches
- Household essentials
Key Economic Benefits
| Category | Expected Impact |
|---|---|
| Food Security | Helps 4.7 million Canadians meet basic needs |
| Consumer Spending | Boosts grocery and retail sales |
| Inflation Buffer | Focused on low-income groups most affected |
| Economic Equality | Supports seniors, working poor, single parents |
Economist Armine Yalnizyan emphasized that this rebate serves as a “bridge” for families facing budget shortfalls.
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How to Check Your Grocery Rebate Status
Canadians can track their rebate through the CRA website:
Steps to Check Status
- Log in to CRA My Account
- Click Benefits and Credits
- Select GST/HST Credit
- View payment labeled Canada Grocery Rebate
If you do not receive your payment by November 25, 2025, contact CRA or your financial institution.
Who Will Benefit the Most?
This rebate is especially helpful for:
- Low-income households
- Seniors living on OAS/GIS
- Single-parent families
- Minimum-wage earners
- Families with two or more children
These groups continue to experience the highest levels of food insecurity in Canada.
Why the Rebate Is Linked to the GST/HST System
Government Strategy
Linking the rebate to the GST/HST credit system ensures:
- Faster payment distribution
- No applications required
- Lower administrative costs
- High accuracy in identifying eligible recipients
This also guarantees delivery before the holiday season when household spending typically increases
Key Takeaways
- Payment Date: November 15, 2025
- Maximum Amount: $628
- Eligibility: Based on 2024 income + GST/HST criteria
- Application: Not required
- Purpose: Offset high grocery inflation and support low- and middle-income Canadians
This rebate highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to financial relief during rising inflation.
