This Friday, March 29, 2025, many Canadians will wake up to a pleasant surprise — a tax-free cash payment directly deposited into their accounts. These federal payouts aim to support families, low-income individuals, and workers amid ongoing economic pressures.
Whether you’re eligible for the GST/HST Credit, Canada Child Benefit (CCB), or the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB), now is the time to check your status and payment amount.
What Are These Tax-Free Payments?
The Government of Canada issues scheduled tax-free benefit payments throughout the year to help offset living costs and support vulnerable populations. The three key benefits being distributed this Friday are:
- GST/HST Credit – Support for low- and modest-income individuals and families.
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – Monthly support for parents and caregivers of children under 18.
- Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) – Additional income for eligible low-income workers.
These payments are non-taxable and require no separate application — only a filed tax return.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for one or more of these benefits if you meet the following eligibility criteria:
| Benefit | Basic Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|
| GST/HST Credit | – Age 19 or older – Filed 2024 tax return – Income within limits |
| Canada Child Benefit | – Primary caregiver of a child under 18 – Resident of Canada – Filed 2024 tax return |
| Canada Workers Benefit | – Working individual or family – Age 19 or older – Earnings below income threshold |
Filing a 2024 tax return is essential to be assessed for eligibility — even if you had no income.
How Much Will You Receive?
Actual payments vary based on your income, marital status, and number of children. Here’s an estimated overview:
| Benefit | Estimated Maximum Payment (Annual) |
|---|---|
| GST/HST Credit | Up to $519 (individual); $680 (couples) + $179 per child |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Up to $7,787 per child under 6 Up to $6,570 per child aged 6–17 |
| Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) | Up to $1,395 (individual); $2,403 (families) |
The March 29 payment is one of several scheduled payouts this year, distributed quarterly or monthly depending on the benefit.
What Should You Do?
To ensure your payment arrives without delays, follow these simple steps:
File Your 2024 Tax Return
If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, do so immediately to avoid missing out. Filing triggers your eligibility assessment.
Check Direct Deposit Info
Verify that your banking information is correct in your CRA account to avoid mailed cheque delays.
Monitor CRA Notifications
Keep an eye on your CRA My Account portal or mailbox for updates on your payment schedule and amount.
When Will the Next Payments Arrive?
Here’s a brief look at the next scheduled benefit dates following the March payout:
| Benefit | Next Payment Date After March 29 |
|---|---|
| GST/HST Credit | July 5, 2025 |
| Canada Child Benefit | April 19, 2025 |
| Canada Workers Benefit | July 12, 2025 (quarterly advance payments) |
This Friday’s federal tax-free cash payout could provide much-needed relief to thousands of Canadian households. Whether you’re a parent receiving the CCB or a worker eligible for the CWB, now is the time to ensure your information is current and your taxes are filed. These payments are part of the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting Canadians through rising costs and economic challenges.
Don’t miss out — check your status today and get ready for a welcome deposit this Friday.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the March 29 payment separately?
No. You’re automatically considered when you file your 2024 tax return and meet eligibility requirements.
What if I didn’t receive my payment on Friday?
First, check your CRA account. If you’ve filed your return and are eligible, delays may be due to outdated banking or mailing info.
Are these payments taxable income?
No. All payments under GST/HST, CCB, and CWB are completely tax-free.