In recent weeks, social media posts and online discussions have spread the claim that all Canadians would receive a $250 cost-of-living relief payment in August 2025.
While such news has attracted attention and hope, the reality is quite different.
This article explains the origin of the rumour, what actually happened with the program, and which real benefit payments Canadians can expect in August 2025.
The Origin of the $250 Payment Rumour
The $250 cost-of-living payment was linked to the Working Canadians Rebate, an initiative announced in late 2024. The plan aimed to provide a one-time, tax-free $250 payment to eligible workers, determined by their 2023 income.
However, this program was cancelled before implementation. No money was ever distributed, and no replacement program has been introduced.
Therefore, claims that the CRA is sending $250 to all Canadians in August 2025 are false and misleading.
The Truth About the $250 Relief Payment
- Announced: November 2024
- Purpose: To support Canadians struggling with higher living costs
- Status: Cancelled before rollout
- Current Situation: No federal $250 payment scheduled for August 2025
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has not issued any new updates regarding this payment or a similar relief program. Any online messages or articles suggesting otherwise should be considered misinformation.
What Canadians Can Actually Expect in August 2025
Although the $250 payment is not real, eligible Canadians can still benefit from several legitimate programs that will continue this month.
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Payment Date: August 20, 2025
- What It Is: A tax-free monthly benefit that assists families with children under 18.
- Eligibility: Must live with a child under 18, be their primary caregiver, be a resident of Canada, and file a 2024 tax return.
- Amount: Varies depending on household income, number of children, and their ages.
GST/HST Credit
- Payment Date: No payment in August 2025. The last was issued in July 2025, and the next is scheduled for October 2025.
- What It Is: A quarterly tax-free payment designed to offset the costs of GST/HST for lower-income families and individuals.
- Eligibility: Determined automatically through your tax return.
Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR)
- Payment Date: None in August 2025. This program ended for individuals in March 2025.
- What It Was: A quarterly benefit to help cover the federal fuel charge.
August 2025 Payment Schedule Overview
| Program | August 2025 Status | Payment Date | Who Qualifies | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Child Benefit | Yes | Aug 20, 2025 | Parents/guardians of children under 18 | Amount based on income & 2024 tax return |
| GST/HST Credit | No (quarterly) | Next: Oct 2025 | Low/moderate-income Canadians | Automatically issued after filing taxes |
| Canada Carbon Rebate | No | — | — | Ended in March 2025 |
| $250 Relief Payment | No | — | — | Cancelled before it began |
How to Check Your Benefit Eligibility
To make sure you receive payments on time, follow these steps:
- File your taxes annually – even if you earn little or no income.
- Update your CRA account – ensure details like your address, marital status, and number of children are accurate.
- Set up direct deposit – receive payments faster and avoid missing or lost cheques.
Beware of Scams Related to the $250 Payment
The rumour has unfortunately been used by scammers to trick Canadians. Watch out for:
- Emails or texts with links claiming you can “claim” your $250.
- Requests for personal banking information in exchange for the money.
- Fake websites that look like CRA portals but use unofficial URLs.
Always access your CRA account through the official government website and never share your personal or banking details through suspicious links.
Preparing Financially for August 2025
Even without the $250 relief payment, Canadians can plan ahead by:
- Checking your CCB deposit date in your CRA account.
- Budgeting carefully around confirmed benefit payments.
- Taking note of the October GST/HST Credit date for future planning.
- Avoiding loans against expected benefits since amounts may change.
The viral claim that all Canadians will receive a $250 cost-of-living payment in August 2025 is not true.
The plan behind it — the Working Canadians Rebate — was cancelled before it ever began.
Instead, Canadians can rely on real programs, such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), scheduled for August 20, 2025.
The GST/HST Credit will next arrive in October 2025, while the Canada Carbon Rebate has already ended.
By filing taxes regularly, keeping CRA information updated, and ignoring scam messages, Canadians can ensure they receive legitimate benefits on time while avoiding fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the $250 cost-of-living payment real?
No. The $250 Working Canadians Rebate was cancelled before it started. There will be no such payment in August 2025.
What payments are available in August 2025?
Eligible families will receive the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) on August 20, 2025. The GST/HST Credit is scheduled for October, and the Carbon Rebate has ended.
How can I make sure I don’t miss my payments?
File your taxes on time, update your personal details in your CRA account, and set up direct deposit for quicker and safer payments.