$628 Grocery Benefit for Canadians in June 2025 – Relief from Soaring Food Prices

In today’s time when the prices of everything are skyrocketing, the most affected is the common man’s kitchen. Food items are a necessity for every household, and when their prices rise, the middle class and low-income groups are most affected. Keeping this problem in mind, the Government of Canada has taken an important step in June 2025 – a one-time grocery rebate of up to $628.

In this article, we will explain in detail what this grocery rebate is, who will get it, how much amount will be given, how to get it and what effect it has actually had on the citizens of Canada.

What is the grocery rebate?

The grocery rebate is a unique program, which was outlined in the 2025 budget by the Government of Canada, and it was purported to avail direct financial aid to the citizens who were experiencing difficulties purchasing food items and other essential services due to the increasing price of these commodities.

This is not a monthly or recurring payment. This is a one-time amount deposited directly into the bank accounts of eligible citizens by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

The grocery rebate was implemented based on the GST/HST credit system already in place in Canada. This means that for those who were already receiving the GST/HST credit, this money was automatically determined — no additional application was required.

Eligibility: Who got the grocery rebate?

Many people wonder if they are entitled to this grocery rebate. The Canada Revenue Agency automatically determined eligibility based on 2023 tax returns.

The main eligibility criteria were:

  • Citizens who are Canadian tax residents
  • The people qualified to get the GST/HST credit
  • People on low to medium income scale or families

If a person was already receiving the GST/HST credit, they almost certainly also received the Grocery Rebate.

How much did different families receive?

The amount of the Grocery Rebate was determined based on the individual or family’s situation. Larger families receive more because they have greater needs and expenses.

The following table provides the maximum Grocery Rebate amount:

Family TypeMaximum Rebate Amount
Single person (without children)$234
Couple + 1 childApprox. $387
Couple + 2 childrenApprox. $467
Couple + 3 or more children$628

Note that this is the maximum limit. The actual amount was determined by the CRA for different people based on their 2023 family income.

How was the payment process done?

The Grocery Rebate payment started on June 15, 2025. Earlier in early June, the CRA started sending notifications to eligible citizens to let them know they were going to receive this amount.

Most people received this payment directly in their bank account through direct deposit. Those who still opted for paper cheques had to wait a few extra days as mail takes time.

The CRA also advised that everyone should update their banking and address information in their CRA My Account to avoid any payment problems.

Be alert against fraud

When it comes to money, fraudsters also become active. During the Grocery Rebate, many Canadian citizens received fake text messages and emails, asking for ‘additional’ grocery rebates or personal information.

Remember: The Canada Revenue Agency never sends messages asking for banking details or personal information without being asked. The Grocery Rebate is only available through June 2025, and clicking on any link or providing information for any amount of money is risky.

What was its impact?

The Grocery Rebate brought relief to millions of Canadians at a time when food prices were at record highs.

It wasn’t a permanent solution, but it helped many families get by for a few weeks during a time when everything was getting more expensive and incomes were flat.

It also shows that if the government wants, it can implement quick, simple and effective support schemes to help the public at the right time.

What to expect in the future?

Although this Grocery Rebate was a one-time move, if inflation continues to rise at this rate, it is likely that the Canadian government may take similar steps in the future.

People hope that if the prices of food items or the cost of living reach unbearable levels again, the government will again announce such targeted payments.

An important lesson is also that citizens should file their tax returns on time and always keep their information updated in government services like CRA My Account.

Conclusion

The June 2025 grocery rebate in Canada was definitely a commendable initiative. It showed how the government and citizens can support each other in times of crisis. Whether you got $234 or $628, this assistance was helpful in making the difficulties of that time a little easier.

FAQs

Q1. What is the $628 Grocery Benefit for Canadians in June 2025?

A: It is a one-time financial rebate announced by the Canadian government to help low- and moderate-income households manage rising grocery and essential living costs.

Q2. Who is eligible for the $628 Grocery Benefit?

A: Canadian residents who qualified for the GST/HST credit based on their 2023 income tax return. It mainly targets low- and middle-income individuals and families.

Q3. Is the $628 amount fixed for everyone?

A: No. The amount varies based on family size and income. The maximum benefit is $628 for larger families with three or more children. Single individuals may receive around $234.

Q4. When was the $628 Grocery Benefit paid out?

A: Payments began on 15 June 2025, with most eligible Canadians receiving it through direct deposit.

Q5. Do I need to apply separately for this Grocery Benefit?

A: No application was required. Eligibility was automatically determined by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) using 2023 tax data.

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