Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit
How do I get the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit?
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit replaced the GST/HST credit in July 2026. Most residents are considered through their annual tax return; new residents have a separate first-application route.
Where to begin
- File your tax return each year, even if you have no income.
- If you are new to Canada, use CRA’s newcomer application instructions for your household before your first return.
- Keep CRA informed of relevant household changes and use its payment information to check your benefit.
Before you open the official service
- Your filing year and whether this is a newcomer application.
- The evidence listed by CRA for your household, submitted only through its official route.
Keep your actual documents and account details off this website. Use the official service’s current checklist before applying.
What to check for your situation
CRA determines entitlement and payments. The benefit is recalculated each July using the previous year’s family income; an old GST/HST credit amount is not a current quote.
Fees, processing times and document rules can change. This page helps you navigate; it does not confirm eligibility or replace the government’s instructions.
Official sources
canada.ca · Official websiteCRA — Canada Groceries and Essentials BenefitThis benefit replaced the GST/HST credit in July 2026 and provides tax-free quarterly payments to eligible households.Checked
Prepared by Active K Digital from the linked public guidance. Read our source approach.