If you’ve come across talk of a “$628 Canada Grocery Rebate” for October 2025 and wondered “Is this real? Does it apply to me?”, you’re not alone. Let’s unpack this together in clear, conversational language—so you can figure out whether this rebate is legit, how it works, and whether you should expect anything.
Origins – where did this rebate idea come from?
A one-time rebate in 2023
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) previously rolled out a one-time Grocery Rebate as part of the federal government’s efforts to help Canadians with rising food costs. According to the CRA, the “Grocery Rebate – No longer available” page states that the rebate was issued on July 5, 2023, and that there is no new Grocery Rebate beyond that at present.
The amounts in 2023 were:
- Up to $234 for a single person no children.
- Up to $467 for couples with two children.
- And importantly, up to $628 for those with four children (or more) under certain conditions.
So yes – in 2023 “$628” was the maximum for a family with four or more kids, under the program at that time.
Why the confusion for October 2025?
Fast‐forward to 2025. Some websites and posts claim the rebate is returning in October 2025, offering up to $628 again. For example, one article says: “Canada $628 Grocery Rebate October 2025 – CRA confirms payment schedule, eligibility and amount details.”
However, checking the CRA’s official site: the page I cited above clearly states the rebate is no longer available. Canada.cahis mismatch creates confusion—so reader beware: not all sources are accurate, and it’s important to rely on official CRA information.
So, is the $628 rebate for October 2025 legit?
What official CRA says
According to the CRA’s archived page:
- The program was one-time, issued July 5, 2023.
- There is no new Grocery Rebate that you can apply for.
Hence, from an official standpoint: this rebate is not active as a new, recurring program in October 2025.
What the “other” sources claim
Nevertheless, some sites claim that the rebate is returning in October 2025—up to $628 for households with four children, automatic deposit, etc.
These may be speculative or mis-interpreted posts, possibly confusing past rebates with future promises.
In short: until you see a direct CRA announcement confirming a 2025 version, treat October 2025 rebate claims with caution.
Who was eligible under the 2023 rebate?
Understanding past eligibility helps you spot whether any “new” rebate might mirror the past framework.
Key eligibility requirements in 2023
- You had to be eligible for the GST/HST credit for January 2023.
- You needed to file your 2021 tax return (even if no income) to establish eligibility. H&R Block Canada
- The amount depended on your adjusted family net income and family size.
Payment amounts (2023)
Here are examples of maximum amounts from 2023:
- Single person with no children: up to $234.
- Couple (married/common-law) w/ no children: up to $306.
- Family with four children: up to $628.
Thus, “$628” was the top-end figure for the largest eligible household in that round.
Why the “$628” number matters
Using “$628” as the headline number catches attention—families often latch onto the biggest possible figure.
It signals maximum benefit
In past rebate terms, $628 was the maximum benefit, not necessarily what every eligible household receives.
It creates expectation—and risk
When people see “$628” and assume they’ll get it, then find out the rebate is no longer active, frustration follows. So it’s crucial to check up-to-date facts.
What to do if you see “October 2025” rebate posts
Step 1 – Check official CRA website
Go to the official CRA site or Government of Canada website to verify whether a program is active. The CRA page for the Grocery Rebate states it is no longer available.
Step 2 – Beware of scams
The CRA explicitly warns that there is disinformation about new Grocery Rebate applications. Canada.ca
If you’re asked to apply, pay a fee, or provide private information outside CRA’s normal processes, it’s likely a scam.
Step 3 – Track your tax returns and credits
Even if the rebate isn’t active, filing your tax return, ensuring your GST/HST credit eligibility, and keeping your direct deposit up to date remains good practice.
If the rebate were reinstated, what might the framework look like?
While there’s no official confirmation for 2025, a hypothetical guide based on past structure can help you prepare.
Filing your tax return
You’d likely need to have filed the prior year’s tax return.
Household size and income matter
Benefit may scale by number of children and adjusted income—just like past versions.
Automatic versus application
Past version was automatic for eligible GST/HST credit recipients—no separate application.
Payment method and timing
If similar to 2023, you could expect direct deposit (if set up) or cheque; timing may align with GST/HST credit payments.
Why this matters now in 2025
Grocery inflation is real
The cost of food continues to rise in Canada. The government’s “Question Period Note” for December 2024 states that food prices in 2025 are forecast to increase by 3-5%.
Cost-of-living pressure
When grocery bills climb and wages/incomes don’t keep pace, relief programs can make meaningful difference.
Government messaging and expectations
Even if no new rebate is announced yet, the fact that these rumours exist signals people are expecting help—and keeping an eye on official announcements is wise.
What you can do right now to be ready
Make sure you’ve filed your taxes
Even if you think the rebate is inactive, filing your income tax return ensures you’re set for any credits or benefits.
Sign up for direct deposit
If you haven’t, set up direct deposit with the CRA so any payments show up quickly.
Use the CRA My Account portal
Check your benefits, credits and payment history.
Keep your information up-to-date
Make sure your address, marital status, dependents and banking info are current.
Monitor official announcements
Rather than relying on third-party news, track the Government of Canada and CRA websites for any updates on rebates or benefit programs.
What about provinces and territories?
Some posts suggest the rebate varies by province, though the official CRA page for 2023 did not list province-specific rates. Some speculative articles for 2025 list “by province” breakdowns. STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser
If a future rebate arises, it’s possible provincial or territorial top-ups could apply, so residents should check local government sources as well.
Common misunderstandings — let’s clear them up
“I got $628, so I’ll always get it”
No—$628 was a maximum under the 2023 one-time rebate program. It’s not an ongoing payment.
“I have to apply by filling a form”
In 2023, you did not apply separately—the system used your tax return and GST/HST credit eligibility. Canada.ca+1
“It’s for everyone”
No—only those who qualified (filed tax return, low/moderate income, eligible for GST/HST credit) were eligible.
“It affects other benefits”
The CRA said the rebate is tax-free and did not affect other federal benefits. H&R Block Canada+1
So what’s the bottom line?
In short:
- Yes, a rebate program named “Grocery Rebate” did exist—issued July 5, 2023.
- Yes, $628 was the top amount in that program for families with four children.
- No, as of current official CRA information, there is no new Grocery Rebate program active for October 2025.
- If you see claims about an October 2025 “$628 Grocery Rebate”, treat them with caution unless you can verify directly via CRA.
- Still, being prepared (tax filing, direct deposit, CRA My Account) is wise, just in case future relief programs are announced.
Conclusion
Alright – if you were hoping the $628 Canada Grocery Rebate is about to hit your bank account in October 2025, the truth is a bit more nuanced. The $628 figure originates from the 2023 one-time rebate and was real for that round. But as of now, the CRA has not confirmed a new rebate program for October 2025. That doesn’t necessarily mean one won’t ever arrive—it just means we don’t have official confirmation yet. In the meantime, stay tax-compliant, keep your CRA account up to date, and keep an eye on official announcements. If you are eligible for something similar, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss out.
FAQs
1. Is the $628 Grocery Rebate automatic or do I need to apply?
For the 2023 version, it was automatic if you were eligible for the GST/HST credit and had filed your tax return.
For 2025, since no official program is confirmed, you cannot assume automatic payment yet.
2. My household has four children—am I guaranteed $628?
Not necessarily. $628 represented the maximum value for the largest eligible family in the 2023 program. Your actual amount would depend on your income and eligibility.
3. Does this rebate affect my other benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
No. In the 2023 rebate’s framework, the payment was tax-free and did not affect other benefits. H&R Block Canada
4. If I didn’t file my tax return for 2021 (for 2023 version) or 2024 (for 2025 version), can I still qualify?
For the 2023 rebate you had to file the 2021 tax return. For any future rebate, filing the relevant year’s return will very likely be necessary. It’s best practice to file tax returns even if your income was low or nil.
5. I found a website claiming “$628 Grocery Rebate payment schedule October 2025” — is that a scam?
Not automatically—but you should be cautious. Since the official CRA page states the program is no longer available, any website promoting a new rebate should be checked carefully. Verify via the official CRA site. If the site asks for a fee or personal info beyond normal CRA processes, it could be a scam.