If you’ve been hearing buzz around the CRA $680 one-time payment set for September 2025, you’re not alone. Canadians everywhere are asking: Who qualifies? When will the payment arrive? What does this mean for families and seniors already stretched thin by inflation?
This guide unpacks the details in plain language, covering eligibility rules, payment dates, application steps, real-life examples, and how this fits into wider government support programs. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and how to use this relief effectively.
What Is the CRA $680 One-Time Payment?
In September 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will deliver a $680 one-time, tax-free payment to help Canadians deal with rising costs.
यह भी पढ़े:
$808 OAS and $1,433 CPP Direct Deposit For Canadian Seniors – Who Qualifies and Payment Details
The payment is aimed at low- and middle-income families, seniors, and benefit recipients who have been hardest hit by rising food, housing, and utility expenses. Unlike many government programs, no special application is required—as long as your 2024 taxes are filed and your information with CRA is up to date, the payment will be processed automatically.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $680 |
| Payment Date | September 25, 2025 |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit (faster) or cheque (slower) |
| Eligibility | Low- and middle-income Canadians, OAS/GIS seniors, CCB and GST/HST recipients |
| Application | Not required; must file 2024 taxes |
| Tax Impact | Tax-free; does not affect taxable income |
| Official Source | Canada Revenue Agency |
Who Is Eligible for the $680 Payment?
The payment targets Canadians most impacted by inflation and economic pressures. Eligibility groups include:
- Low- and middle-income households: Families and individuals within CRA income thresholds.
- Seniors on Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): To cover added medical and living costs.
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) recipients: Families raising children already receiving monthly child benefits.
- GST/HST credit recipients: Those who qualify for quarterly tax relief credits.
Important: You must file your 2024 tax return to qualify. If taxes are not filed, CRA has no record to assess eligibility
यह भी पढ़े:
$2,233 CPP and OAS Direct Deposit in September 2025 – Check Full Eligibility, Dates and Fact Check
When and How Will You Get It?
The payment date is September 25, 2025.
- Direct Deposit: Those registered will see the $680 hit their account on or around the payment date.
- Cheque: If not signed up for direct deposit, CRA will send a cheque by mail, which may take days longer depending on postal service.
No applications are needed—the CRA automatically processes eligibility based on your tax return.
Why This $680 Payment Matters in 2025
Rising costs have squeezed Canadian households. The $680 payment may not cover everything, but it provides temporary breathing room.
यह भी पढ़े:
Canada’s Minimum Wage Rises to $17.65 in Key Provinces , Who Benefits and How Employers Must Prepare
- Grocery bills rose nearly 10% in 2024, especially for fresh food.
- Average rents in Toronto and Vancouver increased 5–7% year-on-year.
- Gas prices remain volatile but higher than pre-pandemic averages.
For many, this extra deposit is the difference between paying bills on time or falling behind.
How This Fits into Wider Government Support
The CRA $680 payment is part of a larger network of Canadian benefits:
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – Families receive up to $7,787/year per child under 6, and $6,570/year per child aged 6–17.
- GST/HST Credit – Paid quarterly, offering several hundred dollars annually to lower-income Canadians.
- OAS & GIS – Essential monthly support for retirees with limited pensions.
- Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) – Refundable tax credit for low-income workers.
- Canadian Dental Care Plan – Expanded in 2025 to cover families earning under $90,000.
- School Supplies Supplement – $124 annually per child (ages 4–16) to help with back-to-school costs.
Together, these programs form a safety net for Canadians facing uncertain economic times.
Real-Life Examples of Impact
- Sarah, a single mother in Calgary – With rising daycare and grocery bills, the $680 payment helps cover utilities and food for the month, reducing reliance on credit cards.
- Hank, a senior in Halifax – Dependent on OAS and GIS, Hank uses the payment to refill prescriptions and pay heating bills.
- A young family in Winnipeg – Parents already receiving CCB use the money to buy school supplies and set aside funds for rent increases.
These examples show the human side of financial relief.
Step-by-Step: How to Ensure You Get Paid
- File Your 2024 Taxes – This is the most critical step.
- Update Contact Information – Ensure CRA has your correct mailing address and direct deposit details.
- Check Benefit Status – If you already receive OAS, GIS, CCB, or GST/HST credits, you’re likely in line for payment.
- Watch for Deposit on September 25 – Direct deposits appear first, cheques arrive later.
- Budget Wisely – Use the funds for essentials such as food, rent, or urgent bills.
Tips to Use the $680 Wisely
- Cover essential bills first (rent, utilities, medications).
- Set aside a portion as an emergency fund.
- Avoid unnecessary spending—focus on household basics.
- Use extra for groceries, gas, or debt repayments.
Beware of Scams and Fraud
Whenever government payments are announced, scammers act quickly. Protect yourself:
- CRA will never call, text, or email asking for banking details.
- No fees or payments are required to access your $680 benefit.
- Always verify on official CRA websites before responding to messages.
- Watch for phishing emails or fraudulent phone calls promising faster payments.
FAQs on CRA $680 One-Time Payment September 2025
Q1: When will the CRA $680 payment be made?
A1: The payment date is September 25, 2025 for direct deposits. Cheques may take longer.
यह भी पढ़े:
CRA Confirms 0.7% OAS Pension Boost for October 2025 – Here’s How Much Seniors Will Receive
Q2: Who qualifies for the payment?
A2: Low- and middle-income Canadians, OAS/GIS seniors, CCB recipients, and GST/HST credit recipients. Eligibility is based on 2024 tax filings.
Q3: Do I need to apply?
A3: No application is required. The CRA automatically processes payments if your taxes are filed and information is updated.
Q4: Is the $680 taxable?
A4: No, the payment is tax-free and will not affect your taxable income.
Q5: How can I avoid scams related to this payment?
A5: Only trust information from official CRA sources. Never give personal or banking details over the phone or email.