Canada is rolling out a one-time top-up in spring 2026 (no later than June 2026) to help low- and modest-income Canadians with the cost of groceries and day-to-day essentials. This payment is tied to the GST/HST credit (now being expanded and referred to as the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit).
What Is The One-Time Top-Up?
The Government of Canada has confirmed a one-time lump-sum top-up equal to 50% of the annual 2025–26 GST Credit value. It will be paid as early as possible in spring 2026, and no later than June 2026.
Importantly, you do not apply for the top-up separately—eligibility is based on whether you were eligible and entitled to the January 2026 GST/HST credit payment.
Confirmed Amounts: Up To $533 For Families And $267 For Single Seniors
The government provides examples showing the top-up can be worth:
- $267 (example: a single senior with $25,000 net income)
- $533 (example: a couple with two children and $40,000 net income)
These are illustrative amounts—your actual payment depends on your family situation and income, just like the GST/HST credit.
Delivery Timeline: “No Later Than June 2026”
- The top-up is scheduled for spring 2026, with delivery no later than June 2026.
- The expanded benefit also includes a 25% increase for five years starting July 2026, paid quarterly going forward.
Who Will Get The Top-Up?
You may receive the one-time top-up if you were:
- Eligible and entitled to the January 2026 GST/HST credit payment
- Up to date with your tax filing, since GST/HST credit eligibility is based on your tax return information
How Will It Be Paid?
Because this top-up is administered through the same system as the GST/HST credit, expect it to be issued using the payment method CRA already has for you (typically direct deposit if set up, otherwise cheque), consistent with how CRA benefits are generally delivered. The CRA notes it will issue the one-time top-up to eligible recipients of the January 2026 GST/HST credit payment by June 2026.
Key Examples At A Glance
| Example Household (Illustrative) | One-Time Top-Up | 2026–27 Increase | Total Increase | Total 2026–27 Support Shown |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single senior, $25,000 net income | $267 | $136 | $402 | $950 |
| Couple with 2 children, $40,000 net income | $533 | $272 | $805 | $1,890 |
What You Should Do Now To Avoid Missing It
- File your taxes on time (GST/HST credit is calculated from tax return information).
- Make sure CRA has your current address and direct deposit details (so payments don’t get delayed).
- If you’re unsure whether you receive the GST/HST credit, check CRA’s eligibility rules and thresholds (income and family situation matter).
Conclusion
The one-time top-up by June 2026 is real and tied directly to the January 2026 GST/HST credit eligibility. Eligible households can expect up to $533 for families and up to $267 for single seniors (illustrative examples), with additional quarterly increases starting July 2026 under the expanded Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit. Your best step now is simple: file your taxes on time and keep your CRA details updated to avoid any disruption.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the one-time top-up?
No. The top-up is issued automatically to people who were eligible and entitled to the January 2026 GST/HST credit payment.
When will the top-up be paid?
It’s planned for spring 2026, and will be paid no later than June 2026.
How much will I get?
Amounts vary by income and family status. Government examples show $267 for a single senior and $533 for a family of four (illustrative scenarios).