The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that a new one-time payment of $698 will be issued to eligible Canadians in October 2025. This benefit aims to help households struggling with the rising cost of living and inflation across the country. With food, housing, and utility prices continuing to climb, this federal relief measure provides much-needed financial support to low- and moderate-income Canadians.
While some details vary by eligibility and province, the payment is set to be automatically deposited into the bank accounts of those who qualify — similar to how the GST/HST Credit and Climate Action Incentive Payments are distributed.
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What Is the $698 CRA One-Time Payment?
The $698 one-time payment is part of the federal government’s broader cost-of-living relief initiative, targeting Canadians who are most affected by inflation and rising daily expenses. It is designed to offset the increased cost of essential items such as groceries, fuel, rent, and utilities.
The CRA administers this payment directly, ensuring that eligible Canadians who file their 2024 tax returns will automatically be considered. No separate application is required for most people, as eligibility is determined through the information on your tax file.
Who Is Eligible for the $698 CRA Payment?
To qualify for the $698 one-time payment in October 2025, individuals must meet certain income and residency criteria. Based on CRA guidelines, eligibility will generally include:
- Canadian residents who have filed their 2024 tax return.
- Low- and moderate-income earners — typically those eligible for benefits like the GST/HST Credit or Canada Workers Benefit (CWB).
- Seniors, families, and individuals with disabilities may also qualify if their income falls within the established thresholds.
- Single adults may receive up to $234, while couples with children may receive up to the maximum $698, depending on their household income.
This payment may also integrate with other federal or provincial relief measures, meaning eligible households could see additional top-ups depending on their province or territory of residence.
How Much Will You Receive?
The exact amount varies based on income level and family composition. The CRA typically uses income data from your most recent tax return to determine how much you’ll receive.
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Single individuals: Up to $234
- Couples: Up to $467
- Families with children: Up to $698
These amounts are subject to phase-out based on your adjusted family net income, meaning higher-income households will receive smaller or no payments.
When Will the $698 CRA Payment Arrive?
According to CRA’s October 2025 payment schedule, the $698 one-time payment will be deposited between October 2025. The exact date is not confirmed yet.
If you receive your GST/HST or Climate Action Incentive payments via direct deposit, you can expect the same for this new payment. Paper cheques may take up to 10 business days longer to arrive by mail.
How to Check Your CRA Payment Status
Canadians can verify if they qualify and track the status of their payment by logging into their CRA My Account online portal. Once logged in, you can:
- Check “Benefits and Credits” for payment details.
- Confirm your direct deposit status.
- View issued payment dates and amounts.
If your payment is delayed, ensure your banking information and mailing address are up to date in your CRA profile.
Why This Payment Matters
The $698 federal one-time payment comes at a critical time for many Canadians. Inflation has eroded purchasing power, particularly for essentials like groceries, rent, and fuel. This relief measure is part of a broader government strategy to help stabilize household budgets while economic conditions improve.
According to recent economic updates, federal officials have hinted that additional targeted relief payments could be introduced in late 2025 or early 2026 if inflation persists above expected levels.
The CRA’s $698 one-time payment for October 2025 is a significant boost for millions of Canadians struggling with affordability. Whether you’re a senior living on a fixed income, a working parent, or an individual with a disability, this payment can provide timely support as the cost of living continues to climb.
To ensure you don’t miss this payment, file your 2024 taxes, update your CRA My Account information, and set up direct deposit. Those steps will guarantee faster processing and direct delivery of this and future CRA-administered benefits.