On Nov. 21, 2024, the Canadian government announced a new $250 rebate, as well as plans to scrap the GST on certain products over the holidays. Here’s what to know.
On Thursday, the Canadian government announced a new $250 rebate, as well as plans to scrap the GST and HST on certain products over the holidays.
Here’s what to know about the Working Canadians rebate and the holiday tax break.
What’s the Working Canadians rebate?
How much is the rebate?
The Working Canadians rebate is $250.
Who’s eligible for the Working Canadians rebate?
To be eligible for the rebate, you must:
• Have worked in 2023 and earned an individual net income less than $150,000.
• Filed your 2023 tax return by the end of 2024 and claimed certain credits.
• Are a Canadian resident as of March 31, 2025.
• Are not incarcerated for at least 90 days before April 1, 2025.
The federal government estimates a total of 18.7 million Canadians are eligible to receive the rebate.
When and how will I get my $250 rebate?
The rebates are expected to land by early spring 2025, but no specific date has been given.
Those who are eligible will receive their rebate via direct deposit, if you are already set up for it with the Canadian Revenue Agency, or you’ll receive a mailed cheque.
You can log into your CRA account online to set up direct deposit.
What’s the holiday GST / HST tax break?
The move is being made to “help (Canadians) buy the things they need and save for the things they want.”
How long will the tax break last?
The tax break will begin on Dec. 14, 2024 and last until Feb. 15, 2025.
What products are included in the tax break?
During the two-month tax break, you won’t see a GST or HST levied on the following items:
• Baby and children’s clothing, accessories and footwear.
• Diapers, both disposable and reusable, including training pants.
• Car seats including infant, convertible and booster seats that conform to Canadian safety standards.
• Print newspapers and books, including audiobooks and religious scripture.
• Christmas trees, both real and fake.
• Most groceries including alcohol, prepared meals, food sold through catering services. (Excluding alcoholic spirits.)
• Most prepared meals sold at restaurants, coffee shops, takeout vendors, pubs, lunch counter, concession stands, mobile food trucks.
• Children’s toys designed for age 14 or younger including board games, puzzles, video game consoles, controllers and media.