With grocery prices still weighing heavily on household budgets, millions of Canadians are hoping for fresh financial relief. Recently, social media has been buzzing with posts claiming that a $628 grocery rebate will be distributed in August 2025. For many, the idea of extra money this summer sounds like a lifeline—but is it real?
Let’s break down the origins of this claim, what the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has actually said, and how you can protect yourself from false information while accessing legitimate financial support.
Where Did the $628 Rebate Rumor Come From?
The talk about a $628 grocery rebate isn’t new. In fact, it traces back to a real government payment made in July 2023, when the federal government issued a one-time grocery rebate to help Canadians manage rising food prices. This payment was automatically deposited into the bank accounts of GST/HST credit recipients, and the exact amount varied based on income and family size.
Some larger households did receive up to $628, which is why the figure is now circulating again. However, that was a one-time benefit, and it was never intended to be repeated annually.
As of now, no official plans are in place to send a new grocery rebate in August 2025.
What the CRA Says About the $628 Grocery Rebate
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has not announced any new grocery-related financial support for 2025. There are no updates on canada.ca, the CRA My Account portal, or any official government communication confirming such a payment.
In fact, several financial experts and government representatives have clarified that no $628 grocery rebate is scheduled for August 2025. If you’ve seen headlines, emails, or social media videos claiming otherwise, they are either outdated or entirely false.
Why Are So Many People Believing the Rumor?
It’s not surprising that this false news has gained momentum. Here’s why many Canadians are confused:
- Old news articles from 2023 are being reshared with new dates
- Clickbait headlines and viral videos are being used to drive traffic to untrustworthy websites
- People are facing real financial pressure and are hopeful for relief
- Scammers are amplifying the rumor to steal personal information
The result is a growing wave of misinformation that preys on vulnerable Canadians who are simply looking for help.
The Truth: No Grocery Rebate Is Scheduled for August 2025
Let’s be clear: there is no new $628 grocery rebate confirmed for August 2025. The last and only rebate of this kind was in 2023.
If the government were to approve a new grocery rebate, it would be:
- Announced on official government websites
- Shared through trusted news organizations
- Sent automatically to eligible individuals, without requiring an application
Real Government Financial Support Programs Available in 2025
Although the $628 rumor is false, there are real benefits that low- and middle-income Canadians can access right now or later this year:
1. GST/HST Credit
A quarterly, tax-free payment provided to individuals and families with low or modest incomes. The next payment is expected in October 2025.
2. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
This monthly benefit helps parents with the cost of raising children under 18. The amount varies based on income and number of children. It is updated every July.
3. Climate Action Incentive (CAI)
Issued quarterly to help offset carbon pricing on fuel, this payment varies by province and household size. The next round of payments is also due in October 2025.
4. Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
Designed to support low-income workers, this benefit is paid out in advance and at tax time, depending on income and eligibility.
5. Provincial and Local Supports
Many provinces offer food, housing, utility, and family assistance. For example:
- Ontario provides Energy Assistance Programs
- Alberta supports families with income supplements
- Quebec offers childcare subsidies
Check your province’s official website for up-to-date information on what’s available locally.
How to Spot and Avoid Grocery Rebate Scams
False claims about rebates aren’t just misleading—they can be used to scam people. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Avoid clicking on unknown links in texts, emails, or social media posts
- Do not share your banking or personal information unless you’re on a verified CRA website
- Ignore messages asking you to “apply” for rebates by email or private message—real benefits don’t work that way
- Always verify claims by checking the CRA’s My Account portal or canada.ca
If You’re Struggling Financially, Do This Instead
If you were hoping for a rebate this August, here’s how you can still take meaningful steps toward financial stability:
- Log into your CRA My Account to check your eligibility for GST/HST credits, CCB, CAI, and more
- File your taxes on time—many benefits are triggered automatically when you file
- Contact local food banks, shelters, and support services in your area
- Create a basic monthly budget to prioritize essential expenses like groceries, rent, and utilities
- Follow official sources, not viral videos, for benefit announcements
What to Watch Out for in Future Government Announcements
Stay prepared by watching for credible news releases and official communications. If a future rebate or support payment is approved, the government will:
- Make a public announcement
- Provide eligibility guidelines
- Set a clear payment schedule
- Ensure all information is available on canada.ca
Until then, it’s best to assume that anything you see on social media or unverified websites is not legitimate.