There is news of relief for millions of Canadians struggling with rising inflation. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has announced that in September 2025, an amount of $1350 will be given directly to eligible citizens as a one-time assistance. This assistance amount will be given to those who fall in the low or middle income group and who are troubled by rising inflation, rent, food and other costs of living.
In this article, we will explain in detail what this CRA $1350 payment is, when it will be available, who is eligible for it, and how you can ensure that you get this benefit.
What is the CRA $1350 One-Time Payment?
This payment is part of the 2025 budget plan of the Government of Canada, which aims to provide direct financial assistance to economically weaker and middle-income families in this era of inflation.
This is not a monthly allowance, but a one-time amount that will help people who are struggling with everyday expenses such as:
- Food items
- House rent
- Utility bills such as electricity and gas
- Transport and fuel costs
This scheme is somewhat similar to the earlier CERB (Canada Emergency Response Benefit), but focuses on people who are already eligible for some of the CRA benefits.
Who Will Be Eligible for the CRA $1350 Payment?
Eligibility for this payment will be based on your 2024 tax return. Below are some key eligibility criteria:
1. Receipt of CRA Benefits in 2024
If you received the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) or GST/HST credit in 2024, you may qualify for this one-time payment.
2. Income Limits
- If you live alone and your total annual income is less than $33,000
- If you live with a family and the total family income is less than $55,000
3. Special Categories of Recipients
- Seniors who depend solely on pension or Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Disabled people who are on government assistance
- People who are on social assistance or whose income is temporarily reduced
Key Points of Eligibility
To receive the payment:
- You must have filed your 2024 taxes on time
- Your income in CRA’s records must be below the set limit
- Your banking information must be updated on the CRA website (CRA My Account)
If you have not filed your taxes on time or your information is out of date, this payment may be delayed or denied.
When Will You Receive the CRA $1350 Payment?
CRA has made it clear that this payment will be released in early September 2025.
Payment Methods
- Direct Deposit – If you have linked your bank account with CRA, the amount will be deposited directly into your account
- Check by Mail – If bank details are not provided, the check will be mailed to the address listed in your CRA records
Important Tip
Go to the CRA website, log in to your My Account, and update your banking and address information to avoid any delays in receiving your payment.
How to Get This Payment – Important Steps
You do not need to fill out any application form for this payment. It will automatically be given to all those who are eligible.
What You Need to Do
- File your 2024 tax return before June 2025
- Update your bank details and mailing address in your CRA account
- Be cautious of phone calls, emails, or messages asking for personal information related to this payment. These may be scams
Reminder
CRA never asks for personal information through emails or phone calls.
Why Is the Government Making This Payment?
For the past few years, Canada’s economy has been under pressure from various factors:
- The impact of the COVID pandemic
- Global recession
- Rising inflation
Read more: Welfare Payments Increased for Millions of Australians
Although inflation has come down in some areas, food, rent, and utility costs are still very high. Government’s Objectives with This Payment
- To provide relief to the lower and middle class
- To support citizens with daily essential expenses
- To promote small-scale economic activities without increasing inflation
This is a targeted benefit, meaning it is only for eligible people, to prevent adding extra inflationary pressure.
Why Is This Payment Important for You?
If you are from a middle or low-income family, this amount of $1350 can be a significant relief. For example:
- If you have to pay your children’s school fees or buy books
- If your electricity or heating bill is due
- If you need to cover sudden medical or emergency expenses
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There is no restriction on how you use the amount—it can be spent based on your personal needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do I have to fill any form for this?
No. There is no application. If you are eligible and have filed your taxes, you will receive the payment automatically.
Q2: If I have not filed tax for 2024, will I get the payment?
No. Filing your tax return is necessary. Even if you had no income, you must file a tax return to qualify.
Q3: Will this payment be repeated every year?
No. This is a one-time payment only.
Q4: Is this payment in addition to GST credit or CWB?
Yes. This benefit is in addition to any GST credit or Canada Workers Benefit you may receive.
Conclusion
This one-time payment of $1350 from CRA can be a much-needed boost for thousands of Canadian families currently facing financial stress.
To ensure you receive this benefit:
- File your 2024 tax return on time
- Update your bank and address details in CRA My Account
- Be cautious of fake calls or scams
This is a positive step by the government to assist those in genuine need and provide direct relief to those most affected by economic challenges.