CRA $250 Relief Payment Coming In September 2025 – Who Qualifies & When You’ll Be Paid

The Government of Canada has announced a special $250 one-time relief payment in September 2025 to help Canadians facing high costs of living.

With rising grocery bills, expensive rent, and growing utility costs, many families and seniors are struggling to keep up.

This Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) payment is designed to give extra financial support to low- and middle-income households.

Why the $250 Relief Payment Is Announced

The Canadian government decided to provide this one-time payment because many households are finding it hard to manage basic expenses. The main reasons include:

• High inflation on groceries, fuel, and daily essentials.
• Rising rent and housing costs across the country.
• Pressure on seniors and families with fixed or low incomes.

By using the CRA system, the government can send the money quickly through direct deposit or cheque to those who qualify.

Who Is Eligible for the $250 Relief Payment

The eligibility rules for this payment are almost the same as other CRA benefit programs. If you already get any of these payments, you will likely qualify:

• GST/HST Credit – For low- and middle-income Canadians.
• OAS and GIS – For seniors receiving Old Age Security or Guaranteed Income Supplement.
• Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – For families with children under 18.
• Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) – For low-income workers.

Basic Eligibility Rules

• You must file your 2024 income tax return, as CRA uses this to decide eligibility.
• You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes in 2025.
• High-income households will not qualify.

Payment Date: When Will You Get the $250?

The CRA $250 relief payment will be delivered in September 2025.

• Direct Deposit: If you have direct deposit set up with CRA, the money will go straight into your bank account.
• Cheque: If not, a paper cheque will be mailed to your registered address, which may take extra time.

Although the exact date is not confirmed, it is expected around mid-to-late September, close to other CRA benefit payments.

How the Payment Will Be Delivered

Delivery Method	Details
Direct Deposit	Money will appear directly in your bank account linked with CRA.
Cheque by Mail	If no direct deposit, a paper cheque will be mailed to your address.
No Application	You do not need to apply separately; CRA decides eligibility automatically.

Other Benefits Alongside the $250 Relief

This payment is only a one-time top-up, but Canadians may also get other supports in 2025, such as:

• GST/HST Credit (quarterly payments).
• Canada Carbon Rebate (every three months).
• Old Age Security (OAS) and GIS (monthly for seniors).
• CPP benefits (retirement or disability).
• Canada Child Benefit (CCB) (monthly for families with children).

Together, these benefits create a support system for Canadians during tough financial times.

What Canadians Should Do Next

To make sure you don’t miss out on this payment, here’s what you need to do:

• File your 2024 tax return on time.
• Set up direct deposit with CRA to avoid delays.
• Update your address and personal information with CRA.

If you qualify but do not receive the payment, you can contact CRA directly.

The CRA $250 one-time relief payment in September 2025 is a much-needed support for Canadians struggling with inflation and high living costs.

By focusing on low- and middle-income households, the government is ensuring that the help goes to those who need it the most. Seniors, families, and workers should check their tax filings and banking details to receive this benefit without delays.

This payment, along with other CRA benefits, is part of Canada’s ongoing plan to protect households against financial stress.

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