The original program was a one-time payment issued on July 5, 2023, designed to help Canadians cope with food inflation. Since then, no repeat rebates have been announced. CRA officials also warn that current false claims may be connected to fraudulent scams attempting to obtain personal or banking information.
This fact-check explains what the Grocery Rebate was, how it worked, why it is not returning in 2025, and how Canadians can protect themselves from misinformation.
What Was the Grocery Rebate?
The Grocery Rebate was a targeted, tax-free relief program introduced in 2023 to offset rising food prices. Unlike other federal benefits, it required no application and was issued automatically to Canadians who were already eligible for the GST/HST credit.
Key details included:
- Payment date: July 5, 2023
- Eligibility: Based on 2021 adjusted family net income and household situation as of January 1, 2023
- Delivery method: Direct deposit or cheque, issued by the CRA
- Coverage: Roughly 11 million low- and modest-income Canadians benefitted
It was never intended as an ongoing or recurring benefit.
Payment Amounts Issued in 2023
The rebate amount varied depending on household size, reflecting the structure of the GST/HST credit.
| Household Type | Maximum Amount Received |
|---|---|
| Single without children | $234 |
| Couple without children | $306 |
| Couple with two children | $467 |
| Family with four children | $628 |
This ensured that larger households received more support, but the program remained strictly a one-time payment.
CRA Statement on 2025 Rumors
The CRA has published clear guidance confirming that the Grocery Rebate is “no longer available.”
- It was tied specifically to January 1, 2023, and calculated using 2021 tax returns.
- No new rebates have been announced in the 2024 or 2025 federal budgets.
- Any messages suggesting applications for a “new Grocery Rebate” are false.
- The CRA has flagged the Grocery Rebate on its Scams and Fraud Alerts, warning Canadians against unsolicited texts, emails, or calls requesting personal details.
If you receive a message in 2025 about a “new Grocery Rebate,” it is not legitimate.
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How Misinformation Spreads
Scammers often use government program names to mislead people. False Grocery Rebate claims typically appear in:
- Social media posts promising “new CRA payments”
- Text messages or emails asking Canadians to “apply” for benefits
- Unofficial websites designed to collect personal data
Because the 2023 Grocery Rebate was automatic, any message requiring an application or registration is a major red flag.
Why This Fact Check Matters
The cost of food remains high across Canada, making the idea of another rebate attractive. However, misinformation not only creates false hope but also exposes Canadians to fraud risks.
By clarifying the facts, households can avoid being misled and ensure they do not share sensitive financial information with scammers.
The reality is that while the GST/HST credit continues quarterly, the Grocery Rebate ended in 2023 and has not been renewed.
What Canadians Should Do
To stay safe and informed, Canadians are urged to:
- Always verify benefit details through canada.ca.
- Use CRA My Account to confirm benefits and past payments.
- Be cautious of unsolicited texts or emails with links.
- Report suspicious messages to the CRA and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Relying on official sources is the only reliable way to avoid scams and misinformation.
FAQs on Canada Grocery Rebate Rumors
Q1. Is there a new Grocery Rebate in 2025?
No. The CRA has confirmed that the Grocery Rebate ended in 2023 and will not be repeated in 2025.
Q2. When was the Grocery Rebate actually issued?
It was a one-time payment distributed on July 5, 2023.
Q3. Who received the Grocery Rebate in 2023?
Roughly 11 million Canadians who were eligible for the GST/HST credit automatically received the rebate.
Q4. How much money did households get?
Amounts ranged from $234 for singles to $628 for families with four children, depending on household size.
Q5. How can I avoid Grocery Rebate scams in 2025?
Check only official CRA and government websites, avoid clicking suspicious links, and report fraudulent messages to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
