The Canadian government has officially announced a $628 Grocery Rebate set to be issued in October 2025.
Managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this one-time payment aims to help households manage the increasing costs of food, utilities, and essential living expenses. Millions of Canadians are expected to qualify based on income thresholds from their 2024 tax returns.
Why the Grocery Rebate Matters
Rising food prices driven by inflation, supply chain disruptions, and higher production costs have placed significant financial strain on low- and middle-income families. The rebate is designed to:
- Offer immediate financial relief for soaring grocery costs
- Provide support to seniors, families with children, and individuals with modest incomes
- Maintain access to basic needs during the final quarter of 2025
- Alleviate household financial stress as heating and school-related costs rise
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable Canadians during periods of economic pressure.
How Much Will Households Receive?
The CRA has confirmed that maximum rebate amounts will depend on household type and size, with a top payment of $628.
| Household Type | Maximum Rebate (October 2025) |
|---|---|
| Single individual with no children | $234 |
| Married or common-law couple with no children | $306 |
| Single parent with one child | $387 |
| Family of four (couple + 2 children) | $628 |
Note: Actual amounts may be lower depending on adjusted family net income reported on the 2024 tax return.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility for the October 2025 Grocery Rebate is determined using the same criteria as the GST/HST credit. To qualify, recipients must:
- Have filed a 2024 tax return, even with zero income
- Meet CRA’s low- and modest-income thresholds
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes in 2025
- Fall under an eligible category, including single individuals, couples, or families with children
Groups most likely to qualify include seniors with modest pensions, students with low incomes, and families with children.
Payment Date for the Grocery Rebate
The CRA has scheduled the grocery rebate payment for Friday, October 10, 2025.
- Direct deposit: Funds will be sent to registered bank accounts on the same day.
- Paper cheque: Mailed to those without direct deposit, which could take a few extra days.
- CRA My Account Notification: Recipients will get a confirmation message in their online CRA account.
How the Rebate Will Be Delivered
- Direct Deposit – Fastest and most secure method, ensuring funds are available on the payment date
- Cheque by Mail – Available to non-registered individuals but may face delivery delays
- CRA Online Notification – Confirmation provided via the CRA My Account portal
Canadians are encouraged to register for direct deposit via CRA or their financial institution to avoid delays.
Checking Your Eligibility and Payment Status
You can verify your eligibility and payment details through:
- CRA My Account – View payment status, amount, and eligibility
- CRA Mobile App – Quick access to benefit information
- Tax Notice of Assessment (NOA) – May include rebate eligibility details
- CRA Helpline – For seniors and those without internet access
Why October 2025 Is a Strategic Time
The rebate arrives just as heating costs increase, back-to-school expenses peak, and holiday spending approaches. Providing direct cash assistance ensures Canadians can buy groceries and essentials without jeopardizing their financial security.
It also stimulates local economies, as the funds are often spent in community grocery stores, markets, and small businesses.
Other CRA-Linked Benefits
The grocery rebate complements other federal benefit programs, including:
- GST/HST Credit Payments
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
Coordinating these benefits helps boost household purchasing power and provides a cluster of financial support during times of high expenses.
Smart Ways to Use the Grocery Rebate
To maximize the impact of the rebate, consider these tips:
- Focus on essential groceries like fresh produce, proteins, and household necessities
- Use a portion of the rebate to cover utility bills or rent
- Buy in bulk to save more over time
- Allocate some funds for school-related costs for children
The $628 Grocery Rebate in October 2025 offers timely financial relief for millions of Canadians, especially those managing rising food, utility, and living expenses.
By easing immediate financial burdens and boosting local economies, this initiative reflects the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable households during economically challenging times.
FAQs
The CRA will issue the grocery rebate on October 10, 2025. Direct deposits will arrive the same day, while mailed cheques may take longer.
Canadians who filed a 2024 tax return, meet CRA’s income thresholds, and are residents in 2025 may qualify.
A family of four can receive up to $628, depending on their adjusted family net income.