Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit

In July 2026, the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) will replace the GST/HST credit. Under the new program name, payment amounts will be increased, but the eligibility, payment calculation, and structure will be the same as the GST/HST credit. Quarterly payment amounts will increase by 25% for 5 years (from 2026 to 2031) starting in July 2026.

As a part of the transition to the new CGEB, an additional one-time GST/HST credit top-up payment will be provided to individuals who were entitled to receive the GST/HST credit in January 2026. This immediate support will be issued starting June 5, 2026.

These measures will provide increased financial support to more than 12 million Canadians with low and modest incomes to help manage the costs of everyday essentials.

Who is eligible

In most cases, you will not need to apply for the CGEB. Only new residents of Canada may need to apply using Form RC151.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will determine your eligibility automatically when you file your tax return. The CGEB will have the same eligibility criteria as the GST/HST credit.

How much you can get

Your benefit amount will be calculated using the same rules as the GST/HST credit. Your payments for July 2026 to June 2027 will be based on the information from your 2025 tax return.

Maximum amount you could receive

For the benefit period from July 2026 to June 2027, you could receive up to:

Additional one-time GST/HST credit top-up payment

To provide financial support before the CGEB takes effect in July 2026, a one-time top-up payment will be provided starting on June 5, 2026 to people who were entitled to receive the GST/HST credit in January 2026.

For details: One-time GST/HST credit top-up payment

Receiving your payments

Starting in July 2026, your quarterly CGEB payments will use the same payment schedule as the GST/HST credit.

If you are signed up for direct deposit, your payments will be deposited directly to your bank account. If you do not have direct deposit set up, you will receive a paper cheque by mail. To receive your payments faster and more securely, you can sign up for direct deposit.

Why you may not receive the CGEB in July 2026

You may not get a payment if:

• You did not file your 2025 tax return
• You are not eligible or entitled to the benefit based on your 2025 tax return information
• Your spouse or common-law partner will receive the CGEB payments on behalf of the family
• Your benefit amount has been applied to an outstanding balance you owe to the CRA