Natalia
In August 2025, eligible Canadians will automatically receive a one-time, tax-free $250 relief payment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
This $250 relief boost aims to ease household costs amid rising inflation, with no application required. The CRA relies on your 2024 tax return, income status, and up-to-date account details to determine eligibility.
In this article, we break down who qualifies, when payments are scheduled, and what to watch for to ensure you get paid promptly.
What Is the CRA $250 Relief Payment?
- A one-time, tax-free $250 payment by the CRA, designed as cost-of-living assistance for Canadians in August 2025.
- Automatically issued—no additional forms or applications are required if eligibility criteria are met.
- Based on 2024 tax filings and your CRA profile being active and accurate, especially with direct deposit details.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility is determined automatically by CRA using several key factors:
- Income Threshold: Generally for individuals earning under $45,000–$65,000 annually.
- Tax Filing Status: Must have filed and had your 2024 tax return assessed.
- CRA Profile: Must be complete and up-to-date, particularly your direct deposit information.
- Residency: Must be a Canadian resident in August 2025, including groups like seniors, low-income workers, students, single parents, and people with disabilities.
Payment Timeline & Delivery Methods
| Payment Method | Expected Delivery Window | Speed & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Deposit | August 15 to August 31, 2025 | Fastest, most secure method |
| Cheque | After August 31, 2025 | Slower—make sure mailing info is updated |
To avoid delays, ensure your bank details are current in your CRA My Account.
No Application Needed
There’s no separate form to fill out or apply for. If your 2024 tax return is filed and your income falls within thresholds, the CRA will process the payment automatically.
You can check your eligibility and payment status via the “Benefits and Credits” section of your CRA My Account.
Who Might Be Ineligible?
You won’t receive the payment if:
- Your 2024 tax return wasn’t filed or assessed.
- Your income exceeds the eligible threshold.
- Your CRA profile or direct deposit info is incomplete or outdated.
- There are unresolved tax discrepancies or fraud flags on your CRA account.
To confirm your eligibility or to update your profile, log in to your CRA My Account promptly.
Why It Matters
Although $250 might seem modest, it offers meaningful, immediate relief for everyday essentials like groceries, rent, or utilities. It’s a targeted support aimed at low- to middle-income Canadians facing financial pressure. With inflation still high, this relief arrives at a crucial time.
The CRA’s $250 relief payment in August 2025 is a smart, hassle-free way to ease financial burdens without requiring extra effort.
If you’ve filed your 2024 tax return and kept your CRA profile current, you’re set to receive this tax-free payment automatically.
Just ensure your banking information is accurate, then watch for the deposit—or cheque later—to land in your account before September.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the $250 CRA relief payment?
No — the payment is automatically sent by CRA if you filed your 2024 taxes and meet eligibility requirements.
When will I get the payment?
If signed up for direct deposit, expect it between August 15 and August 31, 2025. Cheques may arrive later, depending on mail and processing times.
I haven’t received it yet—what can I do?
Check your CRA My Account for payment status and ensure your direct deposit and personal details are updated to avoid delays.