As grocery prices continue to rise across Canada, many families are feeling the pinch when it comes to feeding their loved ones. To help alleviate this financial strain, the Canadian government introduced a $628 Grocery Rebate as part of its ongoing cost-of-living support initiatives for 2025. This article provides detailed, reader-friendly information about the rebate, explaining who qualifies, how much you can expect to receive, and how to claim it.
What Is the $628 Grocery Rebate?
The $628 Grocery Rebate is a one-time, tax-free financial payment issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to assist low- and modest-income Canadians with grocery expenses. This program is designed to provide relief amid rising food costs and supports families across various household types, including singles, couples, and those with children. The maximum rebate amount is $628, which applies to families with four or more children, while smaller households may receive a lower amount based on their family size and income level.
This rebate is automatically issued to eligible Canadians based on their income tax information without requiring a separate application. It complements the GST/HST credit system, which also aims to support lower-income households in Canada.
Who Is Eligible for the Grocery Rebate?
Eligibility for the $628 Grocery Rebate is primarily based on income, family size, and residency status according to the CRA’s criteria. To qualify, individuals must:
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Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
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Have filed their 2024 income tax return by the specified deadline.
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Belong to a low- or modest-income household as defined by the CRA.
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Be at least 19 years old by October 2025.
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Include family size considerations such as dependents or children, which affect the rebate amount.
The CRA uses the latest tax return data to determine who qualifies and the exact payment amount. Those with higher family incomes or fewer dependents may receive a lower rebate than the maximum $628.
How Much Will You Receive?
The actual grocery rebate amount depends on your household’s adjusted net income, marital status, and number of dependents. Below is a simplified payment breakdown for 2025:
| Household Type | Maximum Rebate Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Individual | Up to $234 | Income-based threshold |
| Married/Common-law Couple | Up to $306 | Combined income considered |
| Family with 1 Child | Up to $386 | Includes child benefit |
| Family with 2 Children | Up to $467 | Larger family support |
| Family with 3 Children | Up to $548 | Increased support for families |
| Family with 4 or More Children | Up to $628 | Maximum rebate tier |
This table illustrates how different families qualify for various rebate amounts, with the highest rebate rewarding larger families facing greater grocery expenses.
How and When Will the Rebate Be Paid?
The CRA distributes the $628 Grocery Rebate in two primary ways:
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Direct Deposit: Most Canadians registered for direct deposit will receive the rebate directly into their bank accounts.
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Mailed Cheque: Cheques are sent to those who have not set up direct deposit with the CRA.
The rebate was issued in early to mid-October 2025, as part of the government’s broader cost-of-living measures. Recipients will not have to apply separately; the CRA automatically determines eligibility from tax filings and processes payments accordingly.
Important Tips for Claiming Your Rebate
To ensure you receive the $628 Grocery Rebate smoothly, keep these tips in mind:
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File your 2024 income taxes on time: Eligibility depends on the most recent filed tax return.
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Update your CRA account: Make sure your personal, marital, and dependent information is current.
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Enroll in direct deposit: This allows faster receipt of the rebate.
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Watch out for scams: The CRA never asks for personal banking info by phone or email. Be cautious of fake rebate offers.
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Check your CRA MyAccount: You can verify your rebate status and payment history online.
The Impact of the Grocery Rebate
This rebate reflects the Canadian government’s commitment to easing the rising costs of essential goods amid inflation pressures. By targeting low- and moderate-income families, the program helps put money back into pockets where it’s most needed, directly offsetting grocery bills and supporting food security.
Summary Table: Key Facts About the $628 Grocery Rebate
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rebate Amount | Up to $628 based on family size and income |
| Eligibility Criteria | Canadian resident, filed 2024 taxes, income-based |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
| Automatic Eligibility | Yes, no application needed |
| Purpose | Financial relief for grocery expenses in 2025 |
FAQs About the $628 Grocery Rebate
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Who qualifies for the $628 Grocery Rebate?
Canadians who filed their 2024 tax returns with low-to-modest income and meet residency requirements qualify. -
Do I need to apply for the rebate?
No, the CRA automatically determines eligibility and sends payments. -
When will the rebate be paid?
Payments were issued in October 2025, with direct deposit or mailed cheques. -
Is the grocery rebate taxable?
No, the rebate is tax-free. -
How can I check if I received the rebate?
You can check your CRA MyAccount or bank statements for deposit details.
Jonathan Blake writes about housing assistance, SNAP, unemployment aid, and federal grants. He focuses on helping low-income families understand how to apply for benefits.