Food inflation: a federal payment to support households

Food inflation: a federal payment to support households

Eligible Canadians receiving the GST credit will receive additional financial support to help cope with rising food prices.

This measure, announced earlier this year by Prime Minister Mark Carney, aims to provide a one‑time payment equal to roughly half of the annual amount usually issued through the GST/HST credit.

About 12 million Canadians are expected to automatically receive this payment, provided they have filed their 2024 tax return.

People who are already eligible for the GST credit will not need to take any action. The amount will be issued automatically by the Canada Revenue Agency, including by direct deposit.

The payment will vary based on family situation and adjusted net income. For example, a single person or a single‑parent family could receive up to $267, while some households with children may receive higher amounts.

This payment is intended to partially offset the ongoing rise in food prices, which continues to strain Canadian household budgets.

Federal authorities also plan to increase the GST credit starting in July, which should provide additional support to low‑income families.