Canadian seniors are set to receive a crucial financial boost in December 2025 as the Canada Revenue Agency prepares to distribute a one-time, non-taxable $2,400 direct deposit. This special payment aims to help older Canadians manage record living costs, especially as inflation continues to pressure budgets for essentials like food, housing, and healthcare. It’s one of the most discussed relief measures of the year and part of a broader initiative to strengthen financial security for low-income and fixed-income seniors.
Understanding the CRA $2,400 Direct Deposit
The CRA $2,400 payment is designed as a targeted inflation-relief benefit, not a recurring monthly program. It will be delivered directly to eligible Canadians through the CRA, primarily to those already receiving Old Age Security (OAS), the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), or the Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPP-D). The initiative ensures that immediate help reaches seniors most affected by the high cost of living and provides a cushion heading into the winter months when expenses such as heating and medication often spike.
The payment’s non-taxable status also makes it a particularly valuable support measure—none of the received funds will be deducted from future benefits or declared as income during tax season.
Who Qualifies for the $2,400 Benefit in December 2025
To receive the CRA $2,400 direct deposit, applicants must fall within specific eligibility categories established by the agency. The program primarily assists:
- Seniors aged 65 or older currently receiving OAS benefits.
- Individuals already approved for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
- Those receiving CPP-Disability payments.
- Low-income Canadians who filed their 2024 income tax return and meet the CRA’s income threshold for assistance.
Not every retiree will automatically qualify. The CRA relies on your 2024 tax information to verify eligibility and determine payment status. Those who believe they meet the requirements but haven’t received automatic enrolment should apply or update their details through their CRA My Account before payments begin.
CRA $2,400 Payment Schedule and Deposit Dates
The CRA’s December 2025 relief distribution follows a structured rollout timeline. Most direct deposits are expected to appear between late October and late November, with final payouts continuing into early December to cover any administrative delays or cheque deliveries.
| Benefit Type | Scheduled Deposit Date | Typical Monthly Amount (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age Security (OAS) | 27 November 2025 | $713 – $814 (age-dependent) |
| Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | 27 November 2025 | $660 – $1,097 (income-dependent) |
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | 27 November 2025 | Varies by contribution |
| CRA $2,400 Relief Payment | From 29 October 2025 | One-time, up to $2,400 |
Eligible recipients registered for direct deposit should see the amount reflected in their account automatically. Those without direct deposit may receive a physical cheque via mail, typically taking longer to arrive depending on postal timelines. To prevent payment delays, seniors are advised to ensure their banking and address details are up to date with the CRA.
How to Receive the CRA $2,400 Relief Payment
Direct deposit remains the most efficient and secure method to receive the CRA’s $2,400 payment. Individuals already enrolled for OAS or GIS payments through direct deposit do not need to take any further action. However, if your bank account information has changed in 2025, it must be updated immediately through the CRA My Account portal or by contacting your bank.
If you haven’t set up direct deposit, or prefer mailed payments, a cheque will be issued by the CRA to your registered mailing address. Mailing times may vary, especially during the busy holiday period, so early registration for electronic deposit is strongly recommended for faster access.
Steps to Take if You Don’t Receive the Payment
Some seniors may experience delays or missing deposits due to filing or verification issues. If the $2,400 payment doesn’t appear by mid-December 2025, follow these steps:
- Check your CRA My Account for notices about eligibility or payment status.
- Ensure your 2024 tax return was filed and processed—this is essential for verification.
- Confirm your banking and mailing address details are accurate.
- Contact the CRA support centre for assistance or reissuance if needed.
- Stay alert for fraud attempts—CRA will never ask for personal information by text or email.
Why the CRA Introduced This One-Time Benefit
Rising inflation and living expenses have placed enormous pressure on Canada’s aging population. Many seniors living on fixed incomes have struggled to cover household bills and medical expenses throughout 2025. The CRA’s $2,400 direct deposit program was introduced to relieve this burden and ensure that citizens who built the nation aren’t left behind during periods of economic strain.
Unlike previous pandemic support payments, this initiative directly targets low-income seniors through CRA’s taxation and benefits framework, ensuring funds reach those who need them most efficiently and securely.
Key Advantages of the CRA $2,400 Payment
- Non-taxable support: The payment will not impact your income or reduce your future benefits such as OAS or GIS.
- Flexible use: It can be used for any essential need—housing, health, groceries, or utilities.
- Focused eligibility: Directs relief to those facing the greatest financial hardships.
- Secure payment delivery: Protected systems like CRA direct deposit prevent delays and fraud.
- Immediate relief: Provides end-of-year financial assistance precisely when seniors face higher winter costs.
Smart Tips to Maximise Your Benefit
- Register or update your direct deposit information before payment release dates.
- Confirm your 2024 tax return was filed, as the CRA uses it to determine eligibility.
- Review your CRA portal regularly for messages or instructions.
- Keep track of official communication—avoid scams or phishing emails.
- Contact the CRA promptly if the payment does not appear on time.
CRA $2,400 Senior Payment Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | CRA $2,400 Direct Deposit December 2025 |
| Type | One-time, non-taxable relief payment |
| Eligible Groups | OAS, GIS, CPP-D recipients, low-income seniors |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
| Purpose | Relief for inflation and high living costs |
| Estimated Deposit Period | 29 October – 27 November 2025 |
FAQs
1. Who qualifies for the CRA $2,400 senior payment?
Seniors aged 65+ receiving OAS, GIS, or CPP-D, and low-income Canadians who filed 2024 taxes may qualify.
2. Is the $2,400 benefit taxable?
No. It is a non-taxable one-time payment and won’t affect other benefits.
3. When will the CRA deposit the payment?
Deposits begin in late October and continue until the end of November 2025.
4. Do seniors need to apply?
Most recipients already enrolled in OAS, GIS, or CPP-D will receive payment automatically.
5. What if the payment doesn’t arrive?
Check CRA My Account, verify your tax filing, and update banking or address details before contacting CRA support.