What is CGEB?
Starting July 3, 2026, the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) will replace the existing GST/HST Credit. The new benefit maintains the eligibility structure but increases payment amounts by 25% annually for the next five years for those eligible (canada.ca).
In the meantime, a one-time top-up payment was issued on June 5, 2026 to compensate for the transition period — generally equivalent to 50% of the 2025-26 annual GST/HST credit amount during July 2025 through June 2026 (canada.ca).
Who Qualifies
- File your 2024 tax return, even if your income was zero, to be assessed for eligibility. (canada.ca)
- Be eligible for the GST/HST credit in January 2026. If so, the one-time top-up is automatic; no additional application required. (canada.ca)
How Much You’ll Receive
- The one-time top-up amount is generally half (50%) of the annual GST/HST credit you would have received for the period from July 2025 to June 2026 (canada.ca).
- Starting July 2026, quarterly CGEB payments will continue, with higher amounts due to the 25% annual increase over five years. (canada.ca).
- Example: a family of four with $40,000 net income could receive up to $1,890 in 2026 total, including the top-up; a single person up to $950. (canada.ca).
Important Dates & What to Do
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 5, 2026 | One-time top-up payment issued to eligible recipients (canada.ca) |
| July 3, 2026 | First quarterly CGEB payments begin, replacing GST/HST credit payments (canada.ca) |
| Ongoing | File 2024 and 2025 tax returns on time to ensure eligibility and correct benefit amounts |
Practical Tips
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Make sure your mailing address or CRA account information is up-to-date so you receive your notices and payments without delay. Changes in marital status, children, or address may affect payment amounts. (canada.ca).
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Sign up for direct deposit if not already; payments faster and more secure. (canada.ca).
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If you missed filing 2024 or 2025 returns, it’s still worth catching up — you may receive retroactive benefits once those returns are assessed. (canada.ca).
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Keep an eye out for CRA notices called Notice of Determination, which will show what benefits and credits you qualify for from July 2026 to June 2027. (canada.ca).
Why It Matters
The CGEB is part of broader affordability efforts under Budget 2025. As rising food, fuel, and essentials costs strain household budgets, these enhanced payments aim to give low- and modest-income Canadians more breathing room. Combined with other measures — like the reduced marginal tax rate at the lower end — the CGEB will shift more support toward people who need it most. (canada.ca).