As promised in its last budget, Ottawa will help those less fortunate to pay their grocery bill by paying them a lump sum. Direct deposit is scheduled for this Wednesday. Eligible individuals will receive between $234 to $628, depending on their family situation.
In reality, it is an enhanced GST credit payment that has been given another name. The amount paid will be double the amount received last January.
Of course, those who receive the grocery rebate will be able to use the amount as they see fit. No one will monitor how it was spent.
Note that it is possible to be eligible for the grocery rebate, but not for the July GST/HST credit payment and vice versa. Because “the grocery rebate is calculated based on your 2021 tax return, but the next quarterly GST/HST credit payment for July 2023 is calculated based on your 2022 tax return,” the Agency explains. Revenue Canada (CRA).
Taxpayers who are not registered for direct deposit will receive a check. Ottawa could also use the amount to reduce a lingering tax debt.
The CRA is asking people who have not received their grocery reimbursement by the due date to wait ten business days before contacting the CRA.
Over the past year, the price of a grocery basket has jumped 9%, which compares to 3.4% for all goods and services in the country.