Getting the most from your taxes means claiming all the refundable tax credits you qualify for. These credits can lower your tax burden—or even put money back in your pocket—even if you didn’t pay much (or any) tax.
Here’s how to unlock maximum CRA refundable benefits in 2025.
Understanding Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Credits
- Refundable credits pay you the credit amount regardless of your tax owed. If it exceeds your tax, you still receive the difference.
- Non-refundable credits only reduce your owed tax—they can’t leave you with a refund if they exceed your tax bill
You’ll want to focus on refundable credits—they directly increase your return or refund.
Key Refundable CRA Credits for 2025
Below are major refundable credits worth claiming:
| Credit Name | Maximum Amount (2025) | Who It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) | Up to $1,428 (individual), $2,461 (family) | Working low-income individuals/families |
| GST/HST Credit | Up to $533 annually (single), $698 (couple) | Low-to-moderate income households |
| CWB Disability Supplement | Up to $737 extra for qualifying disabilities | People with disabilities & families |
Why These Matter:
- CWB boosts income for working Canadians.
- GST/HST Credit offsets sales tax for modest-income households.
- CWB Disability Supplement supports those with disabling conditions.
Action Steps to Ensure You Maximize Refundable Credits
A. File Early and Accurately
- Submit your tax return by April 30, 2025 (or June 16 if self-employed) to avoid missing deadlines or penalties.
B. Use CRA’s “My Account”
- Register and file through My Account for faster access, direct deposit setup, and easier updating of personal details.
C. Claim All Eligible Credits
- Make sure to include credits like Canada Workers Benefit, GST/HST Credit, and Disability Supplement if eligible.
- Use the benefits calculator on CRA’s site to see what refunds you may qualify for.
D. Verify Income Thresholds
- Many credits phase out with higher income—keep your adjusted family net income in mind.
- Benefits like GST/HST are based on household income.
E. Get Help If Needed
- Free tax clinics, volunteer services, or NETFILE-certified software can help maximize your credit claims.
Why This Matters in 2025
With rising living costs, maximizing refundable credits isn’t just about better tax outcomes—it’s about real financial relief:
- Credits like CWB and GST/HST empower workers and low-income households with immediate income support.
- Refundable credits are available even to those with minimal taxable income.
- Claiming every eligible credit ensures you keep more money to cover essential expenses.
Refundable CRA credits offer real, quantifiable benefits—and in 2025, maximizing them can significantly help with day-to-day expenses.
Key credits to consider include the Canada Workers Benefit, GST/HST credit, and CWB Disability Supplement. By filing on time, claiming all eligible credits, and leveraging CRA tools and resources, you can claim the maximum refund you’re entitled to and keep more of your hard-earned money.
FAQs
Refundable credits (like CWB, GST/HST Credit) can yield a refund even if your tax owed is zero; non-refundable credits only reduce tax owing and cannot create a refund.
Canada Workers Benefit (up to $1,428 individual / $2,461 family), GST/HST Credit (up to $533 single / $698 couple), and the CWB Disability Supplement (up to $737).