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If you worked in 2023, there’s a new government payment coming your way that could land you an extra $250 tax-free, and it’s easier to qualify than you might think.
The Government of Canada announced on Thursday that millions of Canadians could be eligible for the upcoming Working Canadians Rebate, aimed at easing the cost of living for everyday workers.
If you worked in 2023 and meet a few simple requirements, this federal benefit could be yours in early spring 2025.
According to a press release from the Department of Finance, the rebate will automatically go to 18.7 million Canadians who filed a 2023 tax return and earned up to $150,000 in individual net income. The payment will be delivered through direct deposit or mailed as a cheque, making it super convenient to access.
In a tweet on Thursday afternoon, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed the payment would be made in April.
Who qualifies for the rebate?
To snag this extra $250, there are a few things you’ll need to check off your list:
- You must have filed a 2023 tax return by the end of this year and claimed certain tax credits or reported employment/self-employment income.
- You must be a resident of Canada on March 31, 2025.
- You can’t be incarcerated for 90 days or more before April 1, 2025.
- And — well — you’ll need to still be alive by April 1, 2025.
Basically, if you worked in 2023 making less than $150K and filed your taxes, you’re in pretty good shape to qualify.
The feds emphasized that this rebate is completely tax-free and aims to help Canadians tackle everyday expenses. “The government can’t set prices at the checkout, but we can give Canadians more money in their pockets,” says the release.
How will you get your payment?
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is already gearing up to handle this massive rollout. It’s got plans in place to distribute the payments automatically, so if you’re eligible, you won’t need to lift a finger. If you’re set up for direct deposits for other government payments, you’ll likely see it show up directly in your bank account. Otherwise, keep your eye out for a cheque in the mail in April.
This rebate could offer a little breathing room for millions of Canadians feeling the pinch of rising costs. Whether it’s covering groceries, bills, or just a treat for yourself, that extra $250 could go a long way.
Make sure your 2023 taxes are filed before the end-of-year deadline to ensure you’re on the list for this rebate. Early spring 2025 isn’t that far off, and you don’t want to miss out!
This article’s cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
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