The $533 GST/HST Credit Refund for January 2026 is an officially confirmed quarterly payment that eligible Canadians can expect at the beginning of the year. This payment is part of the federal GST and HST tax credit program, which helps low- and modest-income households offset some of the sales taxes they pay on daily purchases.
The credit is tax-free, issued automatically, and paid four times a year. January is one of the standard payment months, and the upcoming installment is scheduled for 5 January 2026. While single individuals may receive up to $533, families and couples could qualify for higher amounts based on income and household size.
What Is the GST/HST Credit?
The GST/HST credit is a quarterly financial benefit provided by the Canada Revenue Agency. Its purpose is to reduce the burden of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) for Canadians with lower incomes.
Payments are sent automatically to eligible residents, either through direct deposit or by cheque, depending on the recipient’s CRA account settings.
$533 GST/HST Credit Refund – January 2026 Payment Breakdown
The January 2026 GST/HST credit will be issued on 5 January 2026 as part of the regular quarterly cycle. Payment amounts vary according to marital status and the number of eligible children in the household.
Maximum Credit Amounts
- Single individuals: up to $533
- Married or common-law couples: up to $698
- Each eligible child (under 19): $184
These amounts are determined using adjusted family net income (AFNI) reported on tax returns.
Canada GST/HST Credit January 2026 – Overview Table
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Post Title | $533 GST/HST Credit Refund January 2026 |
| Year | 2026 |
| Month | January |
| Country | Canada |
| Benefit Name | GST and HST Tax Credit |
| Issued By | Canada Revenue Agency |
| Eligibility | Low-income Canadian residents |
| Purpose | Offset GST and HST costs |
| Payment Frequency | Quarterly |
| Payment Amount | $533 (single), $698 (couples), $184 per child |
| Payment Date | 5 January 2026 |
| Category | Canada Finance |
| Official Portal | www.canada.ca |
GST/HST Credit Eligibility Rules for January 2026
To qualify for the January 2026 GST/HST credit payment, individuals must meet the following conditions:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Be 19 years of age or older,
or - Be under 19 but have a spouse/common-law partner,
or - Be a parent living with their child
Eligibility and payment amounts are based on information from filed tax returns, so filing taxes on time is essential.
GST and HST Credit Payment Dates in 2026
The GST/HST credit is paid quarterly in:
- January
- April
- July
- October
Income Year Used for Calculations
- January & April 2026 payments: Based on 2024 tax return (AFNI)
- July & October 2026 payments: Based on 2025 tax return
All quarterly payments are typically released on the 5th day of the payment month. Therefore, eligible Canadians will receive the January installment on 5 January 2026.
Fact Check: Is the $533 GST/HST Credit Confirmed?
Yes. The $533 GST/HST credit payment for January 2026 is official and confirmed. This amount applies to eligible single individuals and remains valid until June 2026.
Amounts for July and October 2026 will be recalculated using 2025 income data, and updated payment rates are expected to be announced in June or July 2026.
The $533 GST/HST Credit Refund in January 2026 provides meaningful financial relief to eligible Canadians at the start of the year. As a tax-free, automatically issued benefit, it helps individuals and families manage everyday expenses affected by GST and HST.
With payments scheduled for 5 January 2026, ensuring your tax filings are accurate and up to date is the key to receiving the correct amount. This confirmed payment will remain in effect until mid-2026, after which updated rates will apply based on newer income information.
FAQs
When will the $533 GST/HST credit be paid in January 2026?
The payment is scheduled for 5 January 2026.
Is the GST/HST credit taxable?
No. The GST/HST credit is a tax-free benefit.
Do I need to apply for the GST/HST credit?
No application is required. If you are eligible and have filed your taxes, the CRA issues the payment automatically.