With the ongoing pressure of inflation and rising food costs, Canadian households are set to receive a welcome relief in the form of a new federal aid package. The government of Canada has confirmed a $628 grocery support CA initiative, set to be rolled out in August 2025. This one-time payment will be delivered via the CRA benefit for families platform, providing targeted financial support to low- and middle-income families struggling with the cost of groceries.
This initiative falls in line with the government’s ongoing commitment to helping families cope with inflation while addressing the affordability crisis. If you are a Canadian parent or guardian with dependents, you could be eligible to receive the $628 grocery support CA directly in your account this August.
Let’s explore how this benefit works, who qualifies, how much you can receive, and what you need to do to ensure timely payment.
What Is the $628 Grocery Support CA Program?
The $628 grocery support CA program is a newly announced federal initiative to help families offset the escalating cost of food and groceries in Canada. Administered by the CRA benefit for families program, this one-time payment will be automatically disbursed to eligible recipients based on their 2024 tax return and family size.
Unlike recurring benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), this rebate is a special relief effort designed to provide short-term support to qualifying households. It will especially benefit families with children, single parents, and households living below the national median income level.
The payment is non-taxable and does not affect eligibility for other CRA-administered benefits.
Eligibility Criteria for the Grocery Payment
To receive the $628 grocery support CA, you must meet certain eligibility requirements as determined by the CRA benefit for families guidelines. These include:
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You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
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You must have filed your 2024 income tax return
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You must be eligible for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) in July 2025
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Your adjusted family net income must fall below the federal income threshold
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You must have at least one child under the age of 18
Single parents and lower-income families will be prioritized, though eligibility extends to many middle-income earners with dependents.
Payout Structure and Benefit Table
The total amount you receive under the $628 grocery support CA depends on your household structure and income level. While the maximum benefit is $628, families may receive different amounts based on their unique circumstances.
Here’s a simplified payout structure:
| Household Type | Estimated Benefit |
|---|---|
| Single parent with 1 child | $328 |
| Couple with 2 children | $487 |
| Couple with 3+ children | $628 |
| Low-income single parent (any child) | Up to $628 |
These numbers are based on CRA estimates and are subject to confirmation once official disbursements begin in August 2025.
When Will the CRA Issue the Payment?
The CRA benefit for families will start issuing the $628 grocery support CA payments in early August 2025. Most recipients will receive the money through direct deposit into their registered bank accounts, while some will get mailed cheques.
To ensure you don’t miss your payment:
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Make sure your 2024 taxes are filed before July 2025
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Keep your CRA My Account information up to date
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Sign up for direct deposit via CRA to avoid mail delays
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Monitor your CRA account for payment updates
It’s important to note that this payment will appear separately from your CCB or GST/HST credit.
Why This Grocery Benefit Matters Now
The $628 grocery support CA program is more than just a financial bonus—it’s a timely intervention in response to skyrocketing food prices in 2025. According to national data, grocery bills for average families have surged by over 10% since 2023. Meat, dairy, and produce prices continue to be some of the hardest-hit categories.
This benefit aims to:
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Reduce financial stress on households
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Help families afford nutritious food
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Support caregivers struggling with childcare and daily expenses
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Offer additional help without needing to submit a separate application
Through the CRA benefit for families, the government is using existing tax and benefits data to automatically assess and issue payments, ensuring that help gets to where it’s needed most.
Conclusion
The $628 grocery support CA coming in August 2025 is a welcome development for Canadian families navigating a challenging economy. With the benefit being distributed through the CRA benefit for families, eligible parents and guardians can expect a hassle-free payout as long as their tax information is current.
If your family meets the criteria and your 2024 taxes are filed, you’ll likely be among the millions receiving much-needed assistance this summer. In times of economic uncertainty, this type of targeted relief makes a real difference at the kitchen table.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the $628 grocery support CA?
Families with children under 18, who qualify for the Canada Child Benefit and fall under certain income limits, are eligible for the $628 grocery support CA.
When will the CRA start issuing the payments?
The CRA benefit for families will begin distributing the $628 grocery support CA payments in early August 2025.
Do I need to apply for the $628 grocery support?
No application is necessary. The payment is automatically issued based on your 2024 tax return and CRA’s existing benefit assessments.
How will I receive the payment?
You’ll receive it either through direct deposit or by cheque, depending on how your CRA account is set up.
What if I didn’t file my 2024 taxes yet?
To receive the $628 grocery support CA, you must file your 2024 taxes as soon as possible to be considered for the CRA benefit for families payout.
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