The Canadian government has announced a significant financial update just ahead of year-end — a one-time relief payment of $2,250 will be issued in December 2025 to eligible recipients across all provinces. This support aims to lower the burden of rising living costs, inflation, and energy expenses. It is targeted at low- and middle-income families, seniors, and individuals who are struggling with household budgets.
The Year-End Relief Payment Program for 2025
This $2,250 payment initiative marks a major step by the federal government to assist Canadian residents during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Those who qualify will receive the payment automatically, either via direct deposit or through a benefit-linked account in December 2025. The relief specifically targets households already enrolled in government assistance programs such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST credit, or the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB). The goal is that every household that qualifies will receive timely help to cover year-end expenses such as heating, groceries, and rent.
Eligibility Criteria for the $2,250 Benefit
To qualify for the relief payment in December 2025, Canadian citizens must meet specific conditions. The payment is available to individuals whose income is below the national median, as well as to families enrolled in verified assistance programs. Permanent residents, citizens, and tax-filing adults who received any CRA benefit in 2024 are automatically pre-qualified — no new application is required. The payment will be processed using the latest records from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The relief also gives priority to seniors aged 60+, single parents, and low-income couples in provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.
Eligibility and Payment Schedule Table
| Category | Eligibility Requirement | Payment Amount | Distribution Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Individuals | Income below $45,000 | $2,250 | December 12, 2025 |
| Couples | Combined income below $65,000 | $2,250 each | December 12, 2025 |
| Seniors (60+) | Receiving OAS/CPP | $2,250 | December 15, 2025 |
| Families with Children | Registered for CCB | $2,250 + top-up | December 18, 2025 |
| Tax-Filers (General) | Filed 2024 tax return | $2,250 | December 20, 2025 |
How the Payment Will Be Distributed Across Provinces
The federal relief will be released nationwide through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), ensuring that each province receives funds in a timely manner. In Ontario and British Columbia, payments will be distributed earlier so families can benefit ahead of the holiday season. The prairie provinces, including Alberta and Manitoba, will receive their share via direct CRA transfers linked to existing benefit accounts. Atlantic provinces and northern territories are also covered under this schedule. The government’s goal is full disbursement by December 20, 2025, making sure all eligible households receive support before year-end festivities.
Benefits of the Relief Payment for Canadians
This confirmed December 2025 payment offers a meaningful boost to Canadians preparing for holiday spending and upcoming winter expenses. The $2,250 deposit is non-taxable and will not affect any existing benefit programs like OAS, CPP, or CCB. It is specifically designed as short-term relief for essentials such as heating bills, grocery costs, and transportation expenses. The CRA has stated that eligible personas will see the payment reflected in their MyCRA account status once processing begins. This initiative underscores Canada’s ongoing commitment to assist citizens facing financial strain due to inflation and increasing living-cost pressures.
Conclusion
The one-time $2,250 relief payment set for December 2025 represents an important lifeline for many Canadians facing elevated living expenses. By automating the payment through existing programs and data, the government aims for swift, efficient support across every province. For low- and middle-income families, seniors, and individuals confronting budget pressure, this relief can offer meaningful assistance with holiday and winter costs. If you believe you are eligible, ensure your 2024 tax return is filed and keep an eye on your MyCRA account for confirmation of payment.
FAQs
Q1: Do I need to apply to receive the $2,250 payment?
No. You do not need to apply if you have filed your 2024 tax return and received a CRA benefit program payment. The payment will be issued automatically.
Q2: Will this payment affect my other government benefits?
No. This $2,250 payment is non-taxable and will not reduce or interfere with ongoing benefit programs such as OAS, CPP, or the Canada Child Benefit.
Q3: When will I see the payment in my account?
Payments begin on December 12, 2025 for singles and couples, with other categories following through to December 20, 2025. Check your MyCRA account for updates.
