To receive the GST/HST credit, you have to be 19 years of age (unless you are a parent or married or living common law). You should apply for the credit on your CURRENT YEAR tax return. That way, you can receive it starting with the first payment after the month of your 19th birthday. For example, if you turn 19 in July, August, or September 2025, you are eligible for the GST/HST credit starting in October 2025, as it is the first payment date after the month of your 19th birthday. Similarly, if you turn 19 in October, November, or December 2025, you will be eligible for the January and April 2026 payments.