The Government of Canada, through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), has confirmed a $250 one-time relief payment in September 2025. This measure is aimed at helping Canadians cope with inflation, rising food costs, and housing pressures.
Unlike recurring benefits such as the GST/HST Credit or Canada Carbon Rebate, this relief payment is a special top-up designed to provide temporary financial support to low- and moderate-income households.
Why the $250 Relief Payment Is Being Issued
The Canadian government acknowledges that many households continue to struggle financially due to:
- Persistent inflation on groceries, utilities, and transportation.
- Rising rent and housing costs across major cities.
- Ongoing pressure on seniors, families, and low-income workers.
By issuing a direct, one-time payment, the CRA ensures that funds can be delivered quickly using its established tax and benefit systems.
Who Is Eligible for the $250 Relief Payment
Eligibility for the $250 relief payment will align closely with existing CRA benefit programs. Canadians who already receive certain income-tested benefits will be the primary recipients.
You are more likely to qualify if you currently receive:
- GST/HST Credit – available to low- and moderate-income households.
- Old Age Security (OAS) or Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) – for eligible seniors.
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – for families with children under 18.
- Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) – for low-income workers.
General Eligibility Rules
- You must have filed your 2024 income tax return so the CRA can calculate eligibility.
- You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes in 2025.
- Income thresholds will apply, meaning higher-income households will not qualify.
Payment Dates: When to Expect the $250
The CRA has confirmed that the $250 payment will be issued in September 2025. While the exact date has not been officially released, it is expected to align with other mid-to-late September benefit payment schedules.
| Payment Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Direct Deposit | Eligible recipients will see funds deposited directly into their bank account. |
| Cheque by Mail | Those without direct deposit will receive a paper cheque, which may take longer to arrive. |
How to Receive the Payment
The best part of this relief payment is that no separate application is required. The CRA will automatically determine eligibility based on your 2024 tax return and benefit status.
Steps to ensure smooth payment:
- File your 2024 tax return on time.
- Set up direct deposit through the CRA to receive funds faster.
- Keep your mailing address and personal information updated with CRA.
How This Relief Fits Into Broader Financial Support
The $250 one-time payment is part of a broader package of support programs available in 2025. Canadians may also receive:
- Quarterly GST/HST Credit.
- Canada Carbon Rebate, issued every three months.
- OAS and GIS for eligible seniors, adjusted to inflation.
- CPP retirement and disability benefits.
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) for families with children.
Together, these programs help offset rising living costs and provide ongoing financial stability to households most affected by inflation.
What Canadians Should Do Next
To prepare for the September 2025 payment, Canadians should:
- Confirm that their 2024 tax return has been filed and processed.
- Register for CRA direct deposit to avoid delays.
- Update their contact and banking information with CRA.
- Monitor their CRA online account for updates regarding the payment date.
The CRA $250 one-time relief payment in September 2025 provides much-needed financial support for low- and moderate-income Canadians.
By aligning eligibility with existing benefits, the CRA ensures that payments are delivered efficiently and fairly. Seniors, families, and low-income workers will benefit most, with funds arriving via direct deposit or cheque. For Canadians struggling with rising costs, this one-time top-up offers an extra layer of support during challenging times.
FAQs
Who will receive the $250 relief payment in September 2025?
Low- and moderate-income Canadians, including seniors, families with children, and workers already receiving CRA benefits, will qualify.
Do I need to apply separately for the payment?
No application is required. Eligibility is automatically determined using your 2024 tax return and benefit records.
When will the payment be deposited?
The CRA will issue payments in September 2025, with most arriving mid-to-late September through direct deposit or mailed cheques.