CRA’s $250 One-Time Payment Is Coming – Who’s Eligible And When?
In response to the rising cost of living, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is set to issue a $250 one-time, tax-free payment to eligible Canadians in spring 2025.
This initiative, known as the Working Canadians Rebate, aims to provide financial relief to individuals and families facing economic challenges due to inflation.
Approximately 18.7 million Canadians, including nearly 965,000 working seniors, are expected to benefit from this payment.
What Is the CRA $250 One-Time Payment?
The $250 Working Canadians Rebate is a special financial assistance program introduced by the federal government. It is designed to help low- and moderate-income Canadians manage rising expenses such as groceries, rent, and utilities.
The payment is non-taxable and will be automatically issued to eligible individuals, meaning there is no need to apply separately. The CRA will determine eligibility based on your 2023 tax return.
Who Is Eligible for the $250 One-Time Payment?
To qualify for the $250 CRA one-time payment, you must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Be a resident of Canada on March 31, 2025.
- Age: Be at least 19 years old as of December 31, 2024.
- Income: Have a net income of $150,000 or less in 2023.
- Employment: Have worked in 2023, with employment or self-employment income.
- Tax Filing: Filed your 2023 tax return by December 31, 2024, and:
- Claimed the tax credit for Canada Pension Plan (CPP) or Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) contributions on employment or self-employment earnings; or
- Claimed the tax credit for Employment Insurance (EI) or Quebec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP) premiums on employment or self-employment earnings; or
- Reported income from EI or QPIP benefits.
- Incarceration Status: Not incarcerated for a period of at least 90 days immediately prior to April 1, 2025.
- Life Status: Not deceased on April 1, 2025.
Income Thresholds for Eligibility
The income limits for this benefit are as follows:
| Filing Status | Net Income Threshold |
|---|---|
| Single individuals | Up to $150,000 |
| Married or common-law couples | Up to $150,000 per individual |
If your income is above these limits, you may not qualify for the payment.
How Much Will You Receive?
The standard payment is $250 per eligible individual. Here’s how it breaks down:
| Recipient Type | Payment Amount |
|---|---|
| Single individuals | $250 |
| Married or common-law couples | $250 per eligible individual |
The payment will be made in addition to other government benefits like the GST/HST credit and the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
When Will the $250 Payment Be Issued?
The CRA has scheduled the payment for early spring 2025, with disbursements expected in April or May 2025. The exact date will be confirmed by the government closer to the time. Based on previous relief payments, the expected date is:
- April or May 2025 (likely the first or second week)
The payment will be deposited directly into bank accounts or sent by cheque via mail, depending on your CRA payment preferences.
How to Ensure You Receive the Payment
To make sure you receive the $250 one-time CRA payment, follow these steps:
- File your 2023 tax return on time: The CRA determines eligibility based on your latest tax filing.
- Update your direct deposit details: Ensure your banking information is current in your My CRA Account.
- Keep your mailing address updated: If you prefer a cheque, make sure the CRA has your correct address.
How to Check Your Payment Status
You can track the status of your $250 CRA payment by:
- Logging into your My CRA Account
- Using the CRA MyBenefits app
- Calling the CRA at 1-800-959-1953
If your payment doesn’t arrive by the expected date, wait 10 business days before contacting the CRA.
Why Is the Government Providing This $250 Payment?
The Canadian government introduced this $250 one-time payment to help offset the rising cost of living caused by inflation. Many households are struggling with higher grocery bills, rent, and utility costs, and this financial relief aims to ease some of that burden.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to support low- and middle-income Canadians who are most affected by economic challenges.
The $250 CRA one-time payment in 2025 will offer valuable financial support to eligible Canadians. If you qualify, be sure to file your tax return on time and check your CRA account for updates on payment status.
This benefit, combined with other government assistance programs, can help individuals and families manage everyday expenses during these uncertain economic times.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the $250 payment?
No, the payment will be automatically issued to eligible individuals based on their 2023 tax return.
Will this payment affect my other benefits?
No, the $250 payment is non-taxable and will not affect other government benefits like the GST/HST credit or the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
What if I didn’t work in 2023 but meet other criteria?
To be eligible, you must have worked in 2023 and meet the other specified criteria.