The GST payment dates 2026, GST payment amounts, and GST eligibility rules are major topics for millions of Canadians right now. With rising living costs and the introduction of a new enhanced benefit, many people are asking the same questions: Is GST going up in 2026? What date is the extra GST payment coming?
Here is a complete, detailed breakdown based on official information from the Government of Canada.
GST Payment Dates 2026: Full Schedule
The GST payment dates 2026 follow the standard quarterly schedule set by the Canada Revenue Agency.
According to official government data, the GST/HST credit is paid four times a year:
- January 5, 2026
- April 2, 2026
- July 3, 2026
- October 5, 2026
These GST payment dates 2026 are based on your tax returns:
- January and April payments → based on your 2024 tax return
- July and October payments → based on your 2025 tax return
If you are eligible, payments are sent automatically through direct deposit or cheque.
What Is the GST Payment in Canada?
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment designed to help low- and modest-income Canadians offset the GST or HST they pay on everyday purchases.
You do not need to apply separately. The CRA determines your eligibility when you file your taxes.
GST Payment Amount 2026: How Much Can You Get?
The GST payment amount 2026 depends on:
- Your income
- Your marital status
- Number of children
The exact amount varies, but official examples show:
- A single individual can receive up to around $950 in 2026 (including enhancements)
- A family of four can receive up to around $1,890 in 2026 (including top-up and increases)
The key point is that GST payment amounts in 2026 are increasing, especially with the new benefit changes.
Is GST Going Up in 2026?
Yes, the GST payment is going up in 2026.
Starting July 2026, the GST/HST credit will be replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, and payments will increase.
- Payments will increase by 25% starting July 2026
- The increase will continue for five years
So if you are asking, “Is GST going up in 2026?” the answer is clearly yes.
What Date Is the Extra GST Payment Coming?
This is one of the most searched questions right now.
The government has officially confirmed the date of the extra GST payment 2026.
- One-time GST top-up payment date: June 5, 2026
This payment is:
- Equal to 50% of your annual GST credit
- Paid separately from regular GST payment dates
- Part of the transition to the new benefit
Who Is Eligible for the Extra GST Payment 2026?
To receive the extra GST payment 2026, you must:
- Have filed your 2024 tax return
- Be eligible for the January 2026 GST payment
- Meet income requirements
If you qualified for the January payment, you will automatically receive the top-up.
GST Eligibility 2026: Who Qualifies?
The GST eligibility 2026 rules remain simple:
You must:
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Be at least 19 years old (or meet special conditions)
- File your income tax return
- Have low or modest income
The CRA uses your tax return to calculate eligibility automatically.
Why GST Payment Dates 2026 Matter More This Year
The GST payment dates 2026 are especially important because 2026 is a transition year.
Key changes include:
- One-time 50% extra GST payment in June 2026
- Permanent 25% increase starting July 2026
- New program name: Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit
This means Canadians will receive both:
- A short-term boost (top-up)
- A long-term increase in payments
GST Payment Dates 2026 vs Extra Payment: Key Difference
Many people confuse regular payments with the bonus.
Here’s the difference:
Regular GST Payment Dates 2026
- January 5
- April 2
- July 3
- October 5
Extra GST Payment 2026
- One-time payment on June 5, 2026
The extra payment is not included in the April GST deposit.
Final Answer to Your Questions
Is GST going up in 2026?
Yes. GST payments will increase by 25% starting July 2026 under the new benefit.
What date is the extra GST payment coming?
The extra GST payment will be issued on June 5, 2026.
The GST payment dates 2026, GST payment amount 2026, and GST eligibility 2026 are more important than ever due to major changes in federal benefits.
With a confirmed extra payment in June and higher payments starting in July, millions of Canadians will see increased financial support this year.
To make sure you receive every payment:
- File your taxes on time
- Keep your information updated with CRA
- Set up direct deposit
This year marks one of the biggest upgrades to the GST system, and understanding these changes can help you plan your finances more effectively.