Many Canadians continue searching for details about the $628 grocery rebate, especially as food prices remain elevated and household budgets stay tight. However, it’s important to clarify that this payment was a one-time federal measure, not an ongoing benefit.
The rebate was issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and delivered automatically through the GST/HST Credit system. There is currently no active $628 grocery rebate program accepting applications.
Here’s what Canadians need to know.
What Was the $628 Grocery Rebate?
The grocery rebate was a single federal payment introduced to help offset rising food costs.
It was:
- Delivered automatically through the GST/HST credit system
- Income-tested
- Based on previously filed tax returns
- Non-taxable
The maximum possible payment reached up to $628 for certain larger households with children.
Who Qualified for the Grocery Rebate?
Eligibility was directly tied to GST/HST credit qualification. Canadians did not need to apply separately.
Those who typically qualified included:
- Single individuals with low or modest income
- Couples with modest household income
- Families with children (higher maximum amounts)
- Seniors already receiving GST/HST credits
The amount depended on:
- Adjusted net family income
- Marital status
- Number of children
How Much Was Paid?
While $628 was the maximum amount, not all recipients received that figure.
Approximate structure:
- Single individuals: Lower payments
- Couples: Moderate amounts
- Families with children: Higher payments (up to $628)
Payments were issued automatically by direct deposit or cheque, using the same method as GST/HST credits.
Is the $628 Grocery Rebate Still Available?
No.
The grocery rebate was a one-time measure. There is:
- No ongoing $628 grocery rebate
- No application process currently open
- No automatic continuation of that payment
Any future grocery relief would require a new federal announcement.
Canadians should be cautious of online claims suggesting the rebate is active or requires registration.
What Support Is Available Now?
Although the grocery rebate itself has ended, Canadians may still receive assistance through:
- GST/HST Credit
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Provincial cost-of-living programs
- Targeted federal relief measures announced in budgets
Eligibility depends on filing annual income tax returns and maintaining updated information with the CRA.
What To Do If You Think You Missed It
If you believe you qualified but did not receive the grocery rebate:
- Confirm your tax return for the relevant year was filed
- Check your CRA My Account for payment history
- Verify your direct deposit and mailing information
- Contact the CRA for clarification
Late or missing tax filings were among the most common reasons for non-receipt.
Financial Planning During Rising Costs
With grocery and essential prices still fluctuating, many Canadians are reviewing their budgets carefully.
While government benefits can provide temporary relief, longer-term financial stability often depends on:
- Timely tax filing
- Tracking eligibility for credits
- Monitoring income thresholds
- Planning recurring expenses
Understanding which benefits are ongoing versus one-time helps avoid confusion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the $628 grocery rebate still being paid?
No. It was a one-time payment and is no longer active.
Who qualified for the rebate?
Canadians eligible for the GST/HST credit based on income and family size.
Did I need to apply?
No. Payments were automatic if you qualified.
Why didn’t I receive it?
Common reasons include not filing taxes or outdated banking information.
Will there be another grocery rebate?
No new program has been announced at this time.
Is the grocery rebate taxable?
No. It was a non-taxable payment.
Where can I check my payment history?
Through CRA My Account.
