As inflation continues to impact Canadian households. Rising prices across Canada are putting pressure on many families, leading to growing interest in the possibility of a new $628 Grocery Rebate. Although the federal government has not officially announced a payment for May–June 2025, speculation is increasing based on past support measures and the current economic climate.
What Is the Grocery Rebate?
The Grocery Rebate was introduced in 2023 as a one-time payment to help Canadians manage the rising cost of groceries. It served as a supplement to the GST/HST credit and was based on a person’s income and family situation. Eligible individuals and families could receive up to $628, depending on marital status and the number of children.
Eligibility Criteria
Should a new Grocery Rebate be issued in May–June 2025, the eligibility rules are expected to mirror those of previous programs:
- Minimum Age: Applicants must be 19 years or older.
- Residency: Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Income Limits:
- Individuals: Net income under $45,000.
- Families: Net income under $65,000.
- Tax Filing: Must have filed a 2024 income tax return.
- GST/HST Credit: Must have qualified for the GST/HST credit during the eligibility window.
Rebate Amounts
The amount of the rebate would vary depending on marital status and number of children in the household. Here is a breakdown based on prior payments:
| Family Type | Number of Children | Estimated Rebate |
|---|---|---|
| Single Individual | 0 | $234 |
| Single Individual | 1 | $387 |
| Single Individual | 2 | $467 |
| Single Individual | 3 | $548 |
| Single Individual | 4 | $628 |
| Couple | 0 | $306 |
| Couple | 1 | $387 |
| Couple | 2 | $467 |
| Couple | 3 | $548 |
| Couple | 4 | $628 |
These figures reflect prior rebate distributions and could be adjusted if a new rebate is introduced.
Payment Timeline
There has been no formal statement about a May–June 2025 Grocery Rebate yet. However, if the rebate is approved, payments may follow the timeline of other government benefits. For example, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is scheduled for May 20 and June 20, 2025.
Those who have signed up for direct deposit through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) would receive funds directly to their bank accounts. Others would receive mailed cheques.
How to Prepare
To make sure you’re eligible and receive any future Grocery Rebate on time, take these steps:
- File Taxes Promptly: Ensure your 2024 tax return is filed before the deadline.
- Update Your Information: Keep your address and banking info current with the CRA.
- Verify Eligibility: Make sure you qualify for the GST/HST credit.
Being proactive will help you avoid delays and make sure you’re ready in case the rebate is reintroduced.
The $628 Canada Grocery Rebate for May–June 2025
The potential reintroduction of the Grocery Rebate could provide significant support for low- to moderate-income Canadians during a time of economic strain. While no official details have been released yet, staying informed, submitting your tax return on time, and keeping your CRA details updated will ensure you’re ready if the rebate becomes available.
FAQs
Is the $628 Grocery Rebate confirmed for May–June 2025?
No, there has been no official confirmation from the federal government. However, there is growing anticipation as economic conditions continue to affect household budgets.
How can I check my eligibility for the rebate?
Eligibility will likely depend on your age, residency, income, tax return status, and whether you receive the GST/HST credit. You can verify your status through the CRA’s My Account portal.
Will the rebate be issued automatically?
If the rebate is implemented, it will probably be automatically sent to those who meet the eligibility criteria based on tax records. There likely won’t be a need to apply separately.
Janice R. Phillips is a seasoned finance writer with a keen eye for simplifying complex financial concepts. With over a decade of experience covering personal finance, investing, and economic trends, she empowers readers to make informed money decisions. Janice specializes in creating content that bridges the gap between financial theory and real-world application, making her a trusted voice for both novice and experienced investors.