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The grocery rebate was first introduced in 2023 as a one-time measure to help Canadians deal with the rising cost of food. At that time, families and individuals who were already receiving the GST/HST credit got an extra top-up payment. It was framed as direct financial support, giving some households as much as six hundred dollars, depending on their income and family size.
Since then, Canadians have been closely following any updates about whether such a rebate would return. The fall of 2025 has brought new information about government payments, eligibility conditions, and timelines. While the rebate itself has not been repeated in the exact same way as 2023, there are still important benefit programs and support payments scheduled for September and October 2025.
Why the Rebate Matters
Food inflation has continued to be a challenge for many households. Even though grocery prices are not climbing at the same pace as in 2022 and 2023, they remain high compared to pre-pandemic levels. For families with children, seniors on fixed incomes, and workers earning modest wages, every extra payment makes a difference.
The grocery rebate gave people a sense of relief, even if only temporarily. That is why news of any new government support is often described as a “grocery rebate,” even when the official program has a different name. Understanding what is real and what is not is the key to planning your monthly budget.
Key Dates for September and October 2025
The federal government has several important benefit dates in late 2025.
The Canada Child Benefit for September is being paid on September 19, 2025. Families with children who qualify will see their regular monthly deposit arrive on that day.
The one-time support payment of $680, announced earlier this year, is set to be issued on September 25, 2025. This payment is designed for low- and middle-income households who meet the income and residency criteria. Canadians using direct deposit can expect the money to arrive on the same day, while mailed cheques may take longer.
The GST/HST credit, which is the foundation for most rebate-style support, continues on its usual quarterly schedule. The next payment is due on October 3, 2025. For those hoping to receive additional support in the form of a grocery rebate, this is the closest equivalent available in the current system.
Eligibility Rules Explained
Eligibility rules for these benefits are linked to your income tax return. To qualify for the $680 payment or the GST/HST credit, you must have filed your 2024 tax return and be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
The income cut-off varies depending on whether you are single, married, or supporting children. Families with children generally have a higher threshold. Seniors who already receive Old Age Security or the Guaranteed Income Supplement are also included if their household income falls below the qualifying level.
If you are already receiving the GST/HST credit or the Canada Child Benefit, chances are you will automatically qualify for the $680 support payment as well. There is no separate application process, which reduces stress and ensures that eligible people receive their money without delay.
How Much Can You Expect to Receive
In 2023, the grocery rebate provided maximum payments of about $234 for singles and up to $628 for families with children. Those figures are often repeated in media and online discussions, which causes confusion about whether they apply today.
For September 2025, the $680 support payment is a flat amount. It is not adjusted based on family size or the number of children. This makes it easier to understand, but it also means that larger households do not receive the higher totals that the old rebate once offered.
The GST/HST credit, however, still varies depending on income and family composition. On average, a single adult might receive a few hundred dollars over the course of the year, while a family with two children could see close to a thousand dollars spread across the quarterly payments.
What Canadians Should Do Now
If you want to make sure you receive every benefit you are entitled to, the most important step is filing your tax return. Even if your income is very low, submitting your return gives the Canada Revenue Agency the information it needs to calculate your eligibility.
It is also wise to set up direct deposit through your CRA My Account. This ensures that your payments arrive quickly and reduces the risk of lost or delayed cheques. Keeping your contact information up to date is equally important, especially if you have moved recently.
Finally, be cautious about online claims of new rebate programs. Many websites recycle older information or spread misleading headlines. The official CRA website and government announcements remain the most reliable sources.
The Bigger Picture
The grocery rebate of 2023 was never intended as a permanent policy. Instead, it was a targeted response to a cost-of-living crisis. In 2025, the government has shifted to other forms of support, such as the $680 one-time payment and ongoing credits.
While some people wish to see the rebate return every year, the decision depends on broader economic conditions and government priorities. For now, Canadians should think of the current payments as part of the larger network of financial support, which also includes the Canada Child Benefit, Old Age Security, and the GST/HST credit.
Conclusion
September 2025 brings important benefit dates and a significant one-time payment, but not a repeat of the exact grocery rebate that was offered two years ago. The Canada Child Benefit arrives on September 19, the $680 support payment follows on September 25, and the next GST/HST credit is scheduled for October 3.
Eligibility is based on filing your taxes and meeting income thresholds, with no extra applications required. For households struggling with grocery bills, these payments may not solve every problem, but they provide meaningful help at a time when many Canadians are still adjusting to higher living costs.
By staying informed, keeping your records up to date, and checking reliable government sources, you can make sure you receive every dollar of support available.