The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) provides a variety of financial support programs to help Canadians manage the rising cost of living. One such measure is a one-time payment, aimed at individuals and families with low to modest incomes. For September 2025, the CRA has confirmed a $680 payment, designed to provide immediate financial relief.
This payment is separate from regular federal benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST credit, or Old Age Security (OAS). It is tax-free, meaning it does not count as taxable income when filing your 2025 taxes.
3 Reasons You Could Miss Out on the GST/HST Credit in 2025
$937 Canada Workers Benefit Payment October 2025: Payment Dates & Eligibility
CRA Confirmed Benefit Cheques Coming in September and October 2025: Amounts & Eligibility
Who Is Eligible for the September 2025 Payment?
Eligibility for the $680 one-time payment is determined based on your income and tax-filing status from the previous year. Key criteria include:
- Being a resident of Canada for income tax purposes.
- Having filed your 2024 income tax return on time.
- Falling below the CRA’s income thresholds for low- and modest-income households.
The payment is automatic, so most eligible recipients do not need to apply separately. Families and multi-member households may qualify for additional support, depending on household size.
How Much Will You Receive?
For most single adult recipients, the payment is a flat $680. Families with multiple qualifying members may receive additional amounts, based on CRA calculations.
The CRA ensures that lower-income households receive maximum support, while higher-income individuals above the thresholds do not qualify. This ensures that the payment targets Canadians most in need of financial assistance.
Payment Dates and How to Receive the Money
The CRA has scheduled the one-time payment for September 2025.
- Direct Deposit: Eligible Canadians signed up for direct deposit will have funds deposited automatically into their bank accounts. This is the fastest and most secure method.
- Paper Cheque: Those receiving a cheque may experience minor mail delays, though payments are generally issued around the same period.
To avoid delays, the CRA encourages all eligible Canadians to enroll in direct deposit if they haven’t done so already.
Why This Payment Matters in 2025
With rising inflation and everyday living costs, the $680 one-time payment provides timely relief for many Canadians. While it may not cover all expenses, it offers meaningful support, especially when combined with other federal benefits such as:
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- GST/HST Credit
- Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
These payments collectively help households manage essentials like groceries, utilities, and transportation.
Key Takeaways
- The CRA has confirmed a $680 one-time payment for September 2025.
- Eligibility depends on residency, income, and filing a 2024 tax return.
- The payment is automatic; direct deposit is recommended for fastest access.
- It is tax-free and does not affect other federal benefits.
- Canadians should check their CRA accounts to confirm receipt and ensure banking information is current.
This September, the CRA one-time payment offers a welcome financial boost, helping eligible Canadians manage day-to-day costs in an increasingly expensive economy.