CRA Confirms $628 Grocery Rebate for September, Check Eligibility Rules and Payment Dates

With food prices continuing to surge across Canada, millions of households are feeling the pressure of rising costs. To ease the strain, the federal government has confirmed a new one-time grocery rebate for September 2025, administered through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Eligible households will receive up to \$628, depending on family size and income.

The rebate is designed as direct financial relief to help Canadians cover the cost of groceries and other essentials. For families with children, seniors on fixed incomes, and low-wage earners, this benefit could provide a crucial financial cushion.

Why This Grocery Rebate Matters in 2025

Canada is experiencing one of its toughest affordability crises in decades. Basic items like bread, milk, fruits, and vegetables have risen sharply in price, making it harder for families to afford balanced meals.

The grocery rebate is part of Ottawa’s affordability strategy, aiming to:

• Offset rising grocery costs and inflation pressures.
• Provide relief for low- and middle-income households.
• Support seniors, families with children, and vulnerable groups.
• Encourage consumer spending that stimulates the economy.

While critics say the measure is only temporary, supporters argue that the rebate provides timely support during a period of economic stress.

How Much Will Canadians Receive?

The rebate amount is not uniform; it depends on household size and income level. The CRA will calculate the exact payment based on 2024 tax returns.

Estimated Grocery Rebate Breakdown

Household Type	Maximum Rebate
Single (no children)	\$234
Couple (no children)	\$306
Family with 1 child	\$467
Family with 2 children	\$628
Senior living alone	May qualify for higher support

This scaling system ensures the greatest relief goes to larger families and low-income seniors who face the steepest financial challenges.

Eligibility Rules for the \$628 Grocery Rebate

The rebate is automatic—meaning no application is required. The CRA will use existing tax data to determine eligibility.

To qualify, individuals must:

• Have filed a 2024 income tax return.
• Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
• Fall within the low- or middle-income bracket.
• Meet family composition rules established by the CRA.

The automatic system prevents delays and ensures support reaches households without added paperwork.

Payment Dates – When Will You Get Paid?

The CRA has officially confirmed the grocery rebate timeline for September 2025:

• Direct deposit: September 13, 2025 (fastest method).
• Mailed cheques: May take up to 10 business days after the issue date.

Canadians are strongly encouraged to sign up for direct deposit with the CRA to avoid mail delays and ensure quick access to funds.

How the Payments Will Be Delivered

The grocery rebate will be delivered through the same channels as other CRA benefits:

• Direct deposit: Fastest and most secure option.
• Mailed cheque: Slower, dependent on Canada Post delivery times.

It is essential for recipients to ensure their banking and mailing information is current with the CRA to prevent processing delays.

Impact on Canadian Families

For many households, this rebate will mean more than just extra grocery money. It can:

• Help families afford groceries without cutting into rent or utilities.
• Improve access to healthier food options, especially for children and seniors.
• Reduce reliance on credit cards or payday loans.
• Free up cash for other essentials like transportation, medicine, or school supplies.

In short, the rebate serves as both economic relief and social support, targeting the groups most affected by Canada’s inflation crisis.

Criticism and Limitations

Despite its benefits, the rebate has faced some criticism:

• It is a one-time measure, not a permanent affordability solution.
• Middle-class families just above the income threshold will not qualify.
• Some economists warn that injecting extra cash into households could slightly fuel inflation.

However, most agree the rebate provides meaningful short-term relief for millions of Canadians who need it most.

Government’s Broader Affordability Plan

The grocery rebate is part of the federal government’s wider cost-of-living relief strategy, which also includes:

• Childcare subsidies to lower costs for families.
• Housing support measures for renters and new buyers.
• Energy rebates to help households manage utility bills.

While not a permanent fix, the grocery rebate represents targeted, timely assistance within Canada’s broader plan to protect citizens from rising living costs.

FAQs – Canada \$628 Grocery Rebate September 2025

Q1. Who is eligible for the September 2025 grocery rebate?
Anyone who filed their 2024 tax return, is a Canadian resident, and falls within the low- or middle-income bracket qualifies automatically.

Q2. Do I need to apply for the rebate?
No. The CRA automatically determines eligibility based on tax filings—no separate application is required.

Q3. When will payments be issued?
Direct deposits are scheduled for September 13, 2025, while mailed cheques may take up to 10 business days longer.

Q4. How much will I receive?
The amount depends on household size and income. Maximums range from \$234 for singles to \$628 for families with two children.

Q5. Will this rebate be permanent?
No. It is a one-time payment as part of the government’s affordability plan. Long-term reforms may follow, but this rebate is temporary.