GST/HST Credit Calculator Canada 2026 (CGEB)

See your quarterly GST/HST credit — now the CGEB, about 25% higher from July 2026. Up to $679 for singles, $890 plus $234 per child for families.

FAQ

What is the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB)?

The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) is the new name for the GST/HST credit, effective July 2026. It works exactly like the GST/HST credit — same eligibility, same adjusted-family-net-income phase-out, and same quarterly payment schedule — but the maximum amounts are roughly 25% higher, an increase set to remain in place through 2031. You do not need to apply or do anything differently; if you qualify for the GST/HST credit, the CGEB is paid automatically when you file your tax return.

Who is eligible for the GST/HST credit?

You are eligible if you are a Canadian resident for income tax purposes and at least 19 years old — or under 19 if you have (or had) a spouse or common-law partner, or are a parent living with your child. There is no asset test; eligibility is based solely on residency status, age, family situation, and adjusted family net income. New residents to Canada can apply using Form RC151 as soon as they become Canadian residents for tax purposes, without waiting for their first tax return.

When are GST/HST credit payments issued?

Payments are made quarterly, typically on the 5th of January, April, July, and October. If the 5th falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is issued on the last business day before. If your total annual credit is very small (below the CRA's minimum quarterly threshold), you may receive the full amount as a single payment in July instead of four quarterly installments.

What happens to my GST/HST credit if I get married or separated?

A change in marital status affects your credit because the CRA will recalculate based on your combined family net income (or your individual income, if separated). You must notify the CRA of marital status changes promptly. If you get married or begin a common-law relationship, your combined income may reduce or eliminate the credit. If you separate, your individual lower income may increase your credit amount.

I didn't file my tax return — can I still get the GST/HST credit?

No. The CRA cannot assess your eligibility or calculate your payment without a filed tax return. If you missed filing in previous years, you can file those returns late and the CRA will process any credits you were entitled to, though payments may be delayed. Filing each year — even with no income — is the only way to receive the GST/HST credit and other income-tested benefits.

How does this calculator work?

The calculator estimates your quarterly credit based on your adjusted family net income, marital status, and number of children under 19. The CRA calculates a base amount for the individual, adds amounts for a spouse or common-law partner and each qualifying child, then gradually reduces the total by 5% of income above the reduction threshold. The benefit year runs from July to June — for example, payments from July 2025 to June 2026 are based on your 2024 tax return.