“We are offering this one-time payment to help with affordability and relieve some of that pressure for those who need it most,” said Wayne Long.
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) will be introduced on June 5, 2026. This new payment aims to support Canadians facing financial challenges.
The CGEB replaces the existing GST/HST credit. A family of four will receive up to $1,890 this year. This is a significant increase from the previous maximum of $1,100.
Single individuals eligible for the CGEB could receive up to $679. Married or common-law partners may qualify for a maximum of $890.
As of midday, the government estimates that about 12 million people currently receive the GST rebate. This payment will provide immediate support to more than 12 million Canadians with low and modest incomes.
Mark Carney highlighted the change: “Right now, a family of four receives about $1,100 a year with the existing GST credit. With the new Canada Groceries and Essentials benefit, that same family will receive up to $1,890 this year and about $1,400 a year for each of the next four years.”
This adjustment comes as inflation continues to impact daily living costs across the country. The one-time top-up aims to ease these burdens until the CGEB takes full effect.
Furthermore, starting in July 2026, the GST rebate will increase by 25%. It will remain at that level for five years.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding further specifics of the rollout. However, this initiative marks a significant step towards addressing affordability issues.
The announcement was made by Prime Minister Mark Carney in January 2026. The government hopes these measures will help Canadians manage their essential costs more effectively.