The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has officially confirmed that multiple federal benefits will be deposited early in December 2025, ensuring millions of Canadians receive timely financial support ahead of the holidays. This bundled payout—scheduled for 12 December 2025—is designed to help households manage rising winter expenses like heating, groceries, and holiday costs.
Up to $1,350 in One Deposit: What’s Included?
The $1,350 payment is not a new benefit, but a combined deposit of three existing federal programs:
| Benefit Component | Maximum Amount | Payment Frequency | Expected Deposit Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| GST/HST Credit | Up to $272 (family rate) | Quarterly | 12 December 2025 |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Up to $467 (example family) | Monthly | 12 December 2025 |
| Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR) | Up to $611 (Ontario family) | Quarterly | 12 December 2025 |
| Total Potential Payment | Up to $1,350 | Bundled | 12 December 2025 |
These benefits, usually paid separately, are being bundled into a single early deposit to avoid holiday-related banking delays and provide smoother access to funds.
Who Qualifies for the CRA’s December 2025 Payment?
Eligibility is based on:
- 2024 tax return filing
- Residency status
- Valid Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Family net income
- Caregiver status (for CCB)
The CRA automatically assesses eligibility using the most recent tax data on file. Higher payouts are typically received by families with children, while single individuals or seniors may receive lower amounts.
Why Is the December Payment Arriving Early?
The CRA scheduled the 12 December 2025 direct deposit to ensure recipients get funds before Christmas and New Year holidays, which often disrupt mail and bank operations.
- Direct deposits begin 12 December 2025
- Paper cheques may take a few days longer, depending on postal delays
This proactive approach helps Canadians plan for holiday shopping, utility bills, and seasonal expenses without facing last-minute stress.
Breakdown of Each Benefit in the December 12 Payment
GST/HST Credit
This quarterly tax-free benefit is designed for low- and modest-income households. The December 2025 installment may reach up to $272 per eligible family.
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
Families with children under 18 can receive up to $467 or more depending on the number of children and household income. The CCB is non-taxable and supports child-related costs.
Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR)
Designed to offset the impact of federal carbon pricing, the CCR amount varies by province and household size. For example, a family of four in Ontario could receive up to $611. Rural residents may receive additional top-ups due to higher transportation and energy costs.
Provincial Variations in Carbon Rebate Amounts
While the GST and CCB amounts are federally consistent, CCR amounts vary:
- Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba receive direct federal payments
- Quebec administers its own climate initiatives and does not receive CCR from CRA
- Rural areas may qualify for a rural supplement
This means total December payment amounts differ across provinces.
Benefits of Bundling Payments in December
The CRA’s decision to combine all three payments into a single deposit provides several advantages:
- Reduces administrative workload
- Speeds up payment delivery
- Helps Canadians track their funds more easily
- Ensures recipients have funds in time for the year-end expenses
Avoiding Delays: What You Should Do Now
To receive your December CRA payments on time, follow these steps:
- Set up direct deposit via CRA My Account
- Update personal details, including address, marital status, and dependents
- File your 2024 taxes promptly
- Switch from cheque to direct deposit to avoid holiday mail delays
