When will the GST credit top-up be paid?

Parliament confirmed spring payouts after Royal Assent on February 16. Exact deposit dates will be communicated by federal authorities. We expect funds to arrive within the spring window, creating a short-term lift in essentials purchases and some breathing room for household budgets.

Who is eligible for the Canada GST top-up?

Eligibility follows the existing system for GST credits, with expanded reach to cover over 12 million Canadians. Recipients generally include lower and modest-income households. Final eligibility is determined by recent tax information, household composition, and income thresholds set in legislation and guidance.

Is this the same as the grocery rebate Canada from past years?

It is similar in approach, since the payment arrives through the GST system and helps offset food and essentials costs. Many people call it the grocery rebate Canada, but the current measure is a new one-time top-up plus a five-year 25% increase to the base program.

How does this relate to Bill C-19?

Canadians may remember Bill C-19 from earlier budget measures. The new top-up follows a similar model of targeted relief through the GST system, but it is a separate legislative step. The key point is timely support for essentials without changing the inflation target.

Law and Government

February 16: Canada GST Credit Top-Up Gets Royal Assent; Spring Payouts

ByDanny Kontos February 16, 2026February 16, 2026

Canada’s GST credit is getting a major lift. On February 16, Parliament granted Royal Assent to the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, confirming a one-time GST credit top-up this spring and a 25% five-year increase. The C$3.1 billion injection will reach over 12 million Canadians through expanded eligibility. We break down what passed, how much activity this could add to essentials spending, and what retail investors should watch for in Q2 as households see short-term relief and slightly stronger purchasing power.