Millions of Canadians facing the strain of rising prices will get a one-time $250 relief boost from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in August 2025. This payment is tax-free and aimed at low- and middle-income households struggling with inflation, rent, and everyday costs.
CRA’s $250 August 2025 Relief Payment
The CRA’s $250 relief payment is part of a cost-of-living support measure designed to help vulnerable groups cover essential expenses. It will be issued automatically — no application is needed — based on 2024 tax return information and income status.
Key Features:
- One-time, tax-free $250 payment
- Sent automatically by CRA
- Based on 2024 tax filings
- For eligible low- and middle-income Canadians
Eligibility
The payment is targeted at Canadians meeting specific income and residency criteria.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Income Threshold | Generally under $45,000–$65,000 annually |
| Tax Filing | Must have filed 2024 return |
| CRA Account | Bank account linked to CRA |
| Eligible Groups | Seniors (OAS/GIS), low-income workers, students, single parents, disabled Canadians |
| Residency | Must be a Canadian resident in August 2025 |
Those not meeting these conditions will not receive the payment.
Payment Timeline
CRA will issue the $250 relief payment between August 15 and August 31, 2025.
Payment Methods:
- Direct Deposit – Fastest and most secure
- Cheque – Mailed if direct deposit isn’t set up (may take longer)
To avoid delays, ensure your CRA My Account profile and bank details are current.
No Application Needed
If you meet the income limits, filed your 2024 taxes, and have valid banking info with CRA, your payment will be issued automatically. You can confirm by checking the “Benefits and Credits” section in CRA My Account.
Who Will Not Get the $250
You won’t get the relief if you:
- Didn’t file your 2024 tax return
- Have income above the threshold
- Have incomplete or outdated CRA banking info
- Have a flagged account for tax fraud or discrepancies
Avoid CRA Scams
Scammers often target Canadians during benefit payouts. Remember:
- CRA will never request banking details by phone or text
- Update info only on the official CRA website
- Report suspicious emails or messages
- Avoid clicking on unsolicited links claiming to be from CRA
Why This Payment Matters
While $250 may seem small, it can be critical for those on low or fixed incomes. It helps with rising grocery, rent, and utility costs, and shows the government’s continued effort to support vulnerable citizens in a high-inflation period.
If you’re a senior, student, single parent, disabled, or low-income worker, ensure your tax and banking info is up-to-date so you can get your payment without delays.
FAQs
When will the $250 CRA payment arrive?
Between August 15 and August 31, 2025.
Do I need to apply for the CRA relief payment?
No, it is issued automatically if you qualify.
Who qualifies for the $250 payment?
Low- and middle-income Canadians meeting CRA income limits.
Is the CRA $250 payment taxable?
No, it is completely tax-free.
How can I avoid CRA scams?
Only update info on CRA’s official website and ignore unsolicited requests.
