This payment is crucial financial support for many Canadians, especially individuals and families with low or modest incomes. The HST/GST payment is designed to help offset the costs of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) that eligible Canadians pay throughout the year. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the October 2024 payment, including eligibility criteria, how to apply, and what amounts you might receive.
Table of Contents
- What is the HST/GST payment?
- Who is eligible for the HST/GST payment?
- How to Claim the HST/GST Payment?
- How Much Can You Receive in HST/GST Payments?
- For Married or Common-law Partners
- What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your Payment?
- Additional Government Payments in October 2024
What is the HST/GST Payment?
The HST/GST payment is a non-taxable benefit provided by the Canadian government to individuals and families with low and modest incomes. This credit helps balance the GST and HST that eligible recipients pay, making essential goods and services more affordable. Payments are made quarterly, and the upcoming payment on October 4, 2024, is the second installment for the 2024-2025 period.
Who is Eligible for the HST/GST Payment?
To be eligible for the HST/GST payment, you must meet certain requirements:
- Residency Requirement: You must be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes at the beginning of the month when the CRA makes a payment.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 19 years old in the month before the CRA makes a quarterly payment. However, individuals under 19 can still qualify if they meet one of the following conditions:
- You currently have or previously had a spouse or common-law partner.
- You are or were a parent who lives or lived with your child.
- Filing a Tax Return: You must file a tax return for the previous year, even if you had no income. The CRA uses this information to determine your eligibility and payment amount.
International students and work permit holders are also eligible after filing their first taxes.
How to Claim the HST/GST Payment?
Filing a tax return is the most straightforward way to apply for the HST/GST payment. Even if you did not earn any income, filing ensures you receive any benefits you are entitled to, including the GST/HST credit and other relevant provincial or territorial credits.
For Newcomers to Canada:
If you are new to Canada and have not yet filed a tax return, you can claim the HST/GST credit by completing the relevant forms based on your family status:
- Without Children: Fill out and submit Form RC151, GST/HST Credit and Climate Action Incentive Payment Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada, for the year you became a tax-paying resident.
- With Children: Complete Form RC66, Canada Child Benefits Application, and submit it along with Form RC66SCH, Status in Canada, and Income Information for the Canada Child Benefits Application, to provide your citizenship, residency, and income details.
How Much Can You Receive in HST/GST Payments?
For the 2023 base year (July 2024 to June 2025 payment period), the maximum amounts you can receive are:
- Up to $519 if you are single.
- Up to $680 if you are married or have a common-law partner.
- Up to $179 for each child under the age of 19.
How is the HST/GST Payment Calculated?
The CRA calculates the GST/HST credit based on the information you provided in your 2023 tax return. Here is a brief overview of the payment structure:
For Single Individuals
- Adjusted Family Net Income Under $11,039: $340 (no children) up to $1,396 (four children).
- Adjusted Family Net Income Up to $20,000: Maximum $519 (no children) to $1,396 (four children).
For Married or Common-law Partners
- Adjusted Family Net Income Under $44,324: $680 (no children) to $1,396 (four children).
- Adjusted Family Net Income Over $44,324: Gradual decrease in payment based on income.
If you are eligible, the CRA would have sent you a notification in July 2024 detailing your payment amount. You can also use the CRA Child and Family Benefits Calculator available on their website for an estimate of your benefits.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your Payment?
If you have not received your GST/HST payment within 10 working days of the scheduled date, you can contact the CRA at 1-800-387-1193 for assistance. Delays can occur due to processing times, incorrect or outdated information on file, or other issues.
Additional Government Payments in October 2024
Along with the HST/GST credit, several other government payments are scheduled for October 2024, providing additional support to eligible Canadians:
- Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB): October 10, 2024
- Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB): October 11, 2024
- Climate Action Incentive Payment (CAIP): October 15, 2024
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB): October 18, 2024
To avoid any disruptions in receiving your payments, ensure that the CRA has your current address and direct deposit information. You can update your details through your CRA My Account or by contacting the CRA directly.
Extra GST Payment 2024: When will it be paid & Who is Eligible?
OAS Payment Dates 2024, Increase & More!
CPP & OAS Increase 2024: Future Benefits & What to Expect
GST/HST Credit Payment Dates 2023-2024: Netfile, Cheques and Paper Returns
CPP Payment Dates 2024, Increase, Disability Benefit, CPP Amount & Limit
The GST/HST credit is an essential financial support system for Canadians with low and modest incomes. With the second quarterly payment rolling out on October 4, 2024, it’s crucial to ensure that you have filed your 2023 tax return and that your information with the CRA is up to date. Keep an eye on the scheduled payment dates, and contact the CRA if you experience any issues with your payment. Stay informed to make the most of the benefits you are entitled to receive.