The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has announced a $250 one-time relief payment for eligible Canadians in August 2025, as part of its ongoing efforts to combat inflation and rising living costs.
This Cost-of-Living Relief Boost is aimed at low- and middle-income individuals struggling with essentials like rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify, when you’ll get paid, and how to ensure you don’t miss out, this guide provides all the details.
What Is the CRA’s $250 Relief Boost?
The CRA $250 Relief Boost is part of a broader financial support initiative rolled out in 2025. This measure is designed to assist vulnerable groups hit hardest by the rising cost of living.
Unlike recurring benefits, this is a one-time, non-taxable payment, automatically issued to eligible Canadians who meet the criteria.
This financial relief is especially critical as inflation in 2025 continues to impact household expenses.
Who Is Eligible for the $250 Payment?
Eligibility for the CRA’s $250 Relief Boost depends on a combination of income, tax filing status, and group-specific factors. The CRA has outlined the following criteria:
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Income Threshold | Annual income between $45,000 and $65,000 or lower |
| Tax Filing | Must have filed 2024 tax return before the due date |
| Eligible Groups | Seniors (OAS/GIS), single parents, students, disabled citizens, low-income earners |
| Bank Account | CRA must have direct deposit info or mailing address |
| Residency | Must be a resident of Canada in 2025 |
Who Will Not Qualify?
Not everyone will receive the payment. You may be excluded if:
- You did not file your 2024 tax return
- Your income exceeds Canada Revenue Agency eligibility cap
- Your bank details or Canada Revenue Agency profile is incomplete
- You have unresolved tax fraud or dispute cases
Payment Timeline: When Will the $250 Be Issued?
The Canada Revenue Agency will begin releasing payments between August 15 and August 31, 2025. If you are enrolled in direct deposit, the funds will be sent directly to your bank account.
Payment Methods
| Method | Estimated Delivery Time |
|---|---|
| Direct Deposit | Within 1–2 business days after release |
| Cheque by Mail | 5–10 business days depending on location |
No application is required—if you filed your 2024 tax return and meet the eligibility criteria, your payment will be processed automatically.
How to Confirm Eligibility and Status
To ensure your payment is not delayed:
- Log in to your CRA My Account
- Check if your 2024 tax return has been processed
- Verify your direct deposit info is correct
- Confirm your mailing address is up to date
If you believe you’re eligible but haven’t received payment by September 2025, contact the Canada Revenue Agency or visit the official portal to raise a support request.
Stay Safe from Scams
During benefit rollout periods, fraudulent activity increases. Be cautious:
- CRA never asks for banking details by phone, email, or text
- Ignore calls claiming you must “update info to release payment”
- Only use the official CRA website to manage your account
- Report suspicious messages to the CRA immediately
Why the $250 Relief Payment Matters
While $250 may not seem like a large sum, it provides immediate financial support to those in need. With rising prices of essential goods and services, even a one-time payment can help with:
- Grocery bills
- Utility costs
- Transit passes or fuel
- Emergency expenses
It also reflects the government’s effort to address economic pressures and deliver targeted support to the most vulnerable.
The CRA’s $250 August 2025 Relief Boost is a welcome initiative for Canadians feeling the pinch of ongoing economic challenges.
This one-time financial support is targeted, tax-free, and designed to be distributed efficiently and securely. To receive it without delay, make sure your tax return is filed, and your CRA account is up to date.
Stay informed, stay safe from scams, and encourage others—especially seniors and digitally inactive individuals—to check their eligibility today.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the CRA’s $250 August Relief?
No. If you filed your 2024 taxes and meet eligibility criteria, the payment will be made automatically.
What if I haven’t received the payment by September?
Log in to your CRA My Account to check your eligibility and payment status. If necessary, contact the CRA directly.
Can students receive the $250 payment?
Yes, students with low income who filed a 2024 tax return may qualify for the relief payment.