The Canada Revenue Agency has announced a $250 one-time payment scheduled for November 2025 as part of a government program to help with the cost of living. This payment is designed to offer financial support to low-income individuals and seniors and families who are dealing with increasing expenses. The money will not be taxed and will be deposited directly into the bank accounts of those who qualify. Canadians should verify their eligibility status & make sure their tax details are current with the CRA. They should also check their CRA account regularly for updates about their qualification and when they can expect to receive the payment.
Who Qualifies for the $250 CRA One-Time Payment
The CRA one-time benefit is designed for people experiencing financial difficulties because of rising inflation and higher costs for basic necessities. To qualify you generally need to be an OAS pensioner or GIS recipient or already registered for federal benefits like the Canada Child Benefit or GST/HST Credit. You must have submitted your 2024 tax return & have an active CRA My Account. The payment happens automatically without requiring an application. People who have current direct deposit information on file will probably get their money faster than those waiting for cheques in the mail.
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Payment Dates and Deposit Schedule
The CRA payment schedule shows that payments should start arriving between November 28 and November 29 2025. The CRA has asked people not to contact support unless their payment is more than 10 business days late. Money will be sent directly to the bank accounts that are registered with the CRA. People who get other federal benefits like the GST Credit or Canada Workers Benefit might receive all their payments at the same time. This depends on their tax information and whether their account has been verified.
How to Check Your CRA Payment Status
Canadians can check their CRA payment status by logging into the My Account portal on the official website. Once you log in you should go to the Benefits and Credits section where you can see your current payments & any upcoming ones. This section also shows when the $250 payment was processed & how it will be delivered to you. If your payment shows as issued but you have not received it in your bank account yet you should wait between five and seven business days before you contact CRA. Make sure your bank information is current so that payments arrive quickly and securely.
Expected Impact and Federal Support Outlook
This one-time CRA relief payment is part of a broader national strategy to help Canadians deal with rising costs. Experts say it will offer short-term help to vulnerable populations but long-term inflation control remains an issue. The government has suggested it may consider permanent increases to benefit thresholds by 2026. The $250 payment is designed to help more than 9 million people across the country including seniors and single parents and working families. This action shows the federal government’s dedication to maintaining economic stability for all Canadians.
| Category | Eligibility Criteria | Payment Amount | Expected Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| OAS Pensioners | Age 65+, receiving OAS | $250 (one-time) | Nov 15–28, 2025 |
| GIS Recipients | Low-income senior citizens | $250 (one-time) | Nov 15–28, 2025 |
| Canada Child Benefit Families | Registered for CCB before Sept 2025 | $250 (per household) | Nov 20–28, 2025 |
| GST Credit Holders | Filed 2024 tax return | $250 (non-taxable) | Nov 22–28, 2025 |
