The CRA $1,350 December benefit is shaping up to be a vital lifeline for millions of Canadians this holiday season. As the cost of living continues to rise and energy bills climb during winter, this benefit could not come at a better time. The Canada Revenue Agency has confirmed that eligible individuals and families will receive up to $1,350 in December 2025, offering much-needed financial relief to help with seasonal expenses.

Whether you are a senior managing utility bills, a parent juggling holiday costs, or someone on a low income struggling to make ends meet, the CRA $1,350 December benefit could provide real support. It combines several federal payments into a single month to ease the pressure that often hits hardest at the end of the year. In this article, we will break down what is included, who qualifies, how to make sure you get your payment, and why timing matters.

CRA $1,350 December Benefit: What You Need to Understand

The CRA $1,350 December benefit is not a standalone program but rather a bundled set of federal benefits delivered around the same time. It includes the GST/HST credit, the Climate Action Incentive Payment, Canada Child Benefit top-ups, and extra support for seniors. These payments are scheduled to arrive at different points throughout December, with most landing before the holidays begin. The CRA has shifted the timing slightly to avoid delays caused by bank holidays and seasonal banking slowdowns. Understanding the eligibility rules and keeping your CRA account updated can make all the difference in ensuring you receive your payment on time and in full.

Overview Table: Breakdown of CRA December Benefit

Benefit Component	Details
Total Potential Payment	Up to $1,350
First Payment Date	December 5, 2025
GST/HST Credit	Up to $496 for low-income individuals and families
Climate Action Incentive	Between $250 and $300 based on province
Canada Child Benefit Top-Up	Between $200 and $350 for families with children under 18
Senior Top-Up Payment	Between $200 and $250 for seniors aged 65 and above
Primary Recipients	Low- and moderate-income households, seniors, families with children
Delivery Method	Direct deposit or mailed cheque
Tax Filing Requirement	Must have filed recent tax return to qualify
CRA Account Update Needed	Ensure bank info, address, and personal details are accurate

Understanding the CRA December Benefit

At its core, the CRA December benefit is about helping Canadians deal with extra year-end expenses. Instead of sending each benefit on a separate timeline, the CRA is coordinating these programs to hit accounts throughout December, providing a larger financial cushion for those who need it most. The bundled amount can reach $1,350, depending on your eligibility for each program.

This change in schedule is not just about convenience. It is designed to avoid payment disruptions caused by Christmas bank closures and to ensure Canadians get the money when they need it most. If you are eligible for more than one benefit, these payments will appear as separate deposits but could all land within a few weeks of each other.

what the December Benefit Includes

The December benefit includes a mix of payments aimed at different groups:

• GST/HST Credit: A quarterly payment to help lower-income Canadians offset the cost of taxes on goods and services. For eligible recipients, this can mean up to $496 arriving in December.
  
• Climate Action Incentive Payment: For residents in participating provinces, this benefit provides between $250 and $300 to help cover rising energy costs.
  
• Canada Child Benefit Top-Ups: Families with children under 18 can expect between $200 and $350 depending on household income and number of children.
  
• Senior Top-Up: Seniors aged 65 and above may receive between $200 and $250 as part of additional winter support.
  

When combined, these payments can significantly reduce the pressure of rising costs, particularly around heating, food, and holiday spending.

CRA $1,350 One-Time Payment Confirmed — Direct Deposits Expected December 10, 2025

The CRA has confirmed that the CRA $1,350 December benefit will begin rolling out from December 5, 2025, with most recipients seeing at least one deposit by December 10. Direct deposit is the fastest method, so it is highly recommended to ensure your banking details are accurate in CRA My Account.

Some payments, such as the Canada Child Benefit or the Climate Action Incentive, may arrive later in the month. If you are receiving more than one benefit, keep in mind that they will be sent as separate deposits. Checking your CRA account regularly will help you track which amounts have been sent and when to expect the next one.

Who Is Eligible for the December CRA Payment?

Eligibility varies based on the program, but here are the common criteria:

• Income Level: Most benefits are aimed at low- or moderate-income households. The GST/HST credit, for example, is income-tested and provides higher amounts to those earning less.
  
• Residency: The Climate Action Incentive Payment is available only in certain provinces, so your eligibility depends on where you live.
  
• Age: Seniors aged 65 and older may receive the winter top-up if they meet income requirements.
  
• Family Composition: Households with children qualify for Canada Child Benefit payments and top-ups.
  
• Tax Filing: You must have filed your most recent tax return to be eligible for most federal benefits.
  

Being proactive by checking these requirements and updating your CRA profile will help prevent missed or delayed payments.

When Canadians Can Expect Their December Payments

Here is a quick breakdown of when each payment is expected to arrive:

• GST/HST Credit: December 5, 2025
  
• Climate Action Incentive: December 13, 2025
  
• Canada Child Benefit Top-Up: December 20, 2025
  
• Senior Top-Up Payment: December 27, 2025
  

These dates are estimates, and actual deposit timing may vary depending on your bank and whether you receive payments by cheque or direct deposit. Always allow a few business days for processing.

How the December CRA Benefit Supports Households

This benefit arrives at a time when costs typically soar. Heating bills rise as temperatures drop, grocery prices spike due to holiday demand, and many families take on extra spending for gifts, travel, and festive meals. The CRA $1,350 December benefit is designed to ease this burden.

Key areas where the benefit helps:

• Covering heating and utility bills
  
• Easing the cost of groceries and essential items
  
• Supporting holiday-related expenses
  
• Helping families pay for transportation or childcare during the break
  
• Reducing debt or catching up on overdue bills
  

It is a practical, seasonal financial tool meant to improve household stability as the year ends.

Tips for Maximizing Your CRA December Benefit

To make sure you receive the full benefit:

• Update Your CRA Account: Make sure your bank account, mailing address, and personal details are correct. This avoids processing delays.
  
• File Taxes on Time: Many benefits are based on your most recent tax return. If you missed filing, your payments could be delayed or reduced.
  
• Check Notifications: CRA may send letters or emails with updates or requests for information.
  
• Understand Program Rules: Each benefit has its own criteria. Take time to verify your eligibility across the board.
  
• Plan Your Spending: Budget your expected payments to cover essential needs before splurging on gifts or travel.
  

Taking these steps now will ensure you are ready when payments begin.

FAQs

Will I receive the full $1,350 in December?
Not necessarily. The total amount depends on how many programs you qualify for and your specific circumstances.

How do I know if I am eligible for all the components?
Eligibility depends on income, residency, age, and family status. Check your CRA My Account and review each benefit’s criteria.

What happens if I do not get the payment on time?
Payment delays can happen due to outdated information or banking issues. Make sure your CRA profile is current and monitor your deposit schedule.

Are these payments taxable?
No, these benefit payments are not considered taxable income and will not affect your income tax return.

Can I receive these payments by cheque if I do not use direct deposit?
Yes, but mailed cheques may take longer. Direct deposit is faster and more reliable, especially during the holidays.