Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit 2026: Payment Dates and What Changed
Canada’s GST/HST credit was replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit in July 2026. Here are the 2026 payment dates and what newcomers should know.
Canada’s GST/HST credit was renamed the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit in July 2026. The new benefit keeps the same basic structure while providing higher quarterly payments for eligible people with low and modest incomes.
What changed in July 2026?
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, or CGEB, replaced the GST/HST credit from July 2026. The Canada Revenue Agency says the eligibility, calculation and overall structure remain the same.
The benefit amount increased by 25% from July 2026, with the higher level scheduled to continue for five years.
When are the remaining 2026 payments?
The first CGEB quarterly payment was made on 3 July 2026. The next scheduled payment is 5 October 2026.
The earlier 2026 GST/HST credit payments were 5 January and 2 April, before the programme changed name.
Do you need to apply?
In most cases, the CRA considers you automatically when you file your Canadian tax return. New residents may need to provide information to the CRA so their eligibility can be assessed.
Why filing a tax return matters
Even if your income is low, filing a return can be important because benefit eligibility is normally calculated from tax information. If you move, change marital status or have a child, update your details with the CRA because these changes can affect payments.
For more practical information, see Babylon’s Canada country guide.
Official sources
FAQ
Is the GST/HST credit gone?
It was replaced and renamed as the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit from July 2026.
When is the next 2026 payment?
The scheduled date is 5 October 2026.
