As the cost of living continues to climb, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed a new one-time $666 payment arriving in October 2025. This special deposit is intended to help low- and modest-income Canadians manage everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and rent. Below is a detailed guide on who qualifies, when to expect the money, and how to make sure you receive it without delay.
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Why the CRA Is Issuing the $666 One-Time Payment
The federal government has announced this one-time credit to cushion households from the impact of persistent inflation. Similar to earlier “inflation relief” initiatives, the October 2025 payment is tax-free, meaning it won’t reduce other benefits or count as taxable income. The CRA will automatically issue the payment to eligible Canadians based on their most recent tax return.
Key Payment Date for October 2025
The CRA has scheduled the $666 one-time payment for mid-October 2025. While the exact day can vary slightly depending on your financial institution, most Canadians receiving direct deposit can expect funds to appear in their bank account within one to three business days of the official CRA deposit date.
For those receiving cheques by mail, allow an additional five to ten business days for delivery.
Who Is Eligible for the $666 CRA Payment
Eligibility is primarily based on your 2024 tax return, so it is essential that you have filed your taxes on time. The CRA will automatically review your income details to determine if you qualify.
General Requirements
- Residency: You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes in October 2025.
- Income Threshold: Your adjusted family net income must fall below the CRA’s annual cut-off for the 2024 tax year. The exact threshold varies depending on marital status and number of dependants.
- Age: Most adults aged 19 or older are eligible, though younger individuals may qualify if they have a spouse, common-law partner or dependent child.
How Much You Could Receive
- The base payment is $666 for eligible individuals and families.
- Couples will receive a single combined payment deposited into the account of the person listed as the primary tax filer.
- Single parents may receive additional amounts if they have qualifying dependants.
This amount is not reduced by other federal or provincial benefits, meaning you can receive it alongside programs such as the GST/HST Credit, Canada Child Benefit (CCB), Old Age Security (OAS), or Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
How to Ensure You Get the $666 Deposit
1. File Your 2024 Taxes
If you haven’t filed your 2024 income tax return, do so as soon as possible. The CRA uses this information to confirm your eligibility and calculate your payment.
2. Sign Up for Direct Deposit
Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive government benefits. You can enroll through:
- Your CRA My Account, or
- Your financial institution’s online banking portal.
3. Keep Your Personal Details Updated
Log into your CRA My Account to ensure that your mailing address and banking information are current. Out-of-date details could delay the payment.
Impact on Other Benefits
The $666 CRA one-time payment is tax-free and will not reduce income-tested benefits such as:
- GST/HST Credit
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
Receiving this payment will not change your eligibility for any provincial or territorial tax credits.
What To Do If You Don’t Receive the Payment
If the scheduled payment date passes and you have not received the funds:
- Check your CRA My Account for updates or notices.
- Contact the CRA only 10 business days after the scheduled date if the payment is still missing.
- If you receive a cheque by mail and it does not arrive, you may request a stop payment and replacement.
The new $666 CRA one-time payment in October 2025 offers welcome relief for Canadians facing rising living costs. By ensuring your taxes are filed and your direct deposit details are up to date, you can make sure you receive this tax-free payment on time. This support complements other federal programs and provides a valuable boost to household finances just before the winter months.