The Grocery Rebate Bill (C46), also known as the Cost of Living Act No. 03, was introduced by the Canadian Government to help Canadians cope with the rising cost of groceries. It offered a one-time financial boost to low-income households during a time of record inflation.
While it served as temporary relief when it launched, the program officially ended in November 2025, and no further payments are being made under this bill.
Here’s everything you need to know about what the Grocery Rebate was, who qualified in the past, and why it’s no longer available in 2025.
Table of Contents
Overview
The Grocery Rebate Bill C46 was designed as a temporary response to inflation-driven grocery costs. It targeted low-income Canadians who were already eligible for the GST/HST credit.
The rebate payment was issued automatically by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) on 5th July 2023, without requiring a separate application. Around 11 million Canadians received the rebate, depending on their household size and income level.
But as of November 2025, the program has ended with no new rules, no extension, and no current payments in progress.
Details
Let’s go over the key details of the Grocery Rebate program when it was active:
| Post Title | Grocery Rebate Bill (C46) |
|---|---|
| Country Name | Canada |
| Program Name | Grocery Rebate (Cost of Living Act No. 03) |
| Responsible Authority | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Status in 2025 | Ended (as of November 2025) |
| Purpose | Temporary support for rising food costs |
| Payment Type | One-time rebate |
| Payment Date | 5th July 2023 |
| Who Qualified Previously | GST/HST Credit recipients |
| Current Eligibility | None |
| Official Website | www.canada.ca |
Past Amounts
Here’s how much was paid to eligible Canadians back in July 2023:
| Household Type | Rebate Amount |
|---|---|
| Couples with 2 children | $467 |
| Single adults | $234 |
| Seniors | $225 |
These payments were credited automatically into recipients’ bank accounts alongside their GST/HST credit payments.
Eligibility
When the rebate was active, eligibility was tied directly to the GST/HST Credit system. To qualify in 2023, a person had to:
- Have filed a tax return with CRA
- Be entitled to the GST/HST credit
- Be a resident of Canada
- Have a low-to-moderate income, as determined by their tax return
- No extra application was required; payments were made automatically
As of 2025, none of these eligibility criteria apply anymore because the program is no longer running.
Current Status
There are no new rules, no updated payment amounts, and no plans to reintroduce the Grocery Rebate in 2025. The Canadian Government has not issued any new legislation, press releases, or updates indicating a return of this program.
Anyone claiming the rebate is still active or offering ways to apply in 2025 is likely spreading misinformation.
Fact Check
Let’s clarify the most important point: The Grocery Rebate Bill (C46) ended in November 2025.
While the payment helped millions when it was introduced, it was always a temporary, one-time benefit. It was not designed to be a permanent fixture of Canadian support programs. If you’re seeing online claims or social media posts about a new Grocery Rebate in 2025, those are not official or reliable.
To stay updated with real information, visit the official Canadian government website: canada.ca
FAQs
Is the Grocery Rebate still active in 2025?
No, the program officially ended in November 2025.
Can I still apply for the rebate?
No, the rebate was issued automatically and is now closed.
Who got the Grocery Rebate in 2023?
Low-income Canadians who received GST/HST credits.
How much was the rebate?
Up to $467, depending on family size and income.
Where can I check updates?
Visit www.canada.ca for official rebate information.
