benefits
GST and BC Tax Credits: How to Ensure You Don't Miss Out
These credits are basically "automated" cash, but if you skip one specific step, the payments stop.
5 min read
The GST/HST credit is a quarterly tax-free payment that helps individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset all or part of the GST or HST they pay. In BC, this is often bundled with the BC Climate Action Tax Credit.
Step-by-Step to Secure Your Credit
- Initial Application: For brand new immigrants, you cannot just wait for tax season. You should file form RC151 (GST/HST Credit Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada) as soon as you arrive.
- Annual Tax Filing: Once you are settled, the only thing you need to do to keep receiving it is to file your income tax return on time every year, even if you have no income to report.
- Direct Deposit: Set up direct deposit with the CRA to avoid lost or stolen checks. These payments arrive in July, October, January, and April.
- Update Status: If you get married, divorced, or have a child, notify the CRA immediately as it changes your credit amount.