Solidarity Tax Credit: A Tax Credit That Puts Money Back in Your Pocket

Think the solidarity tax credit isn't for you? Not so fast... Keep in mind that this refundable tax credit, administered by Revenu Québec, applies to many Quebecers. And no need to be in dire financial straits to benefit from it. As proof, more than 2.8 million individuals claimed this credit in 2022, according to a report by Quebec's Ministry of Finance published in March 2025.

Take, for example, Richard and Nathalie, a fictional couple of retired teachers in a common-law relationship with no children. With their combined annual income of $60,000, they could easily assume they're not eligible for the solidarity tax credit. And yet, they were entitled to $539.50 in 2025 thanks to this refundable tax credit—enough to give their budget a small boost. Who knows, you may be entitled to it, too! It's time to find out. Here's all you need to know.

What is the solidarity tax credit?

The solidarity tax credit is a refundable tax credit meant to aid low- and middle-income Quebecers. It mitigates the financial impact of the Quebec sales tax (QST), housing costs and the higher cost of living for residents of northern villages.

Who can claim the solidarity tax credit?

To be eligible, you must meet the following basic criteria:

• you were of legal age, which means you were 18 years of age or older on December 31 of the previous year
• you are a resident of Quebec
• you file your taxes

However, if you are a minor as of December 31, you may still be eligible if you are a parent of a child for whom you provide housing or if you live with your spouse.

How to calculate the solidarity tax credit

Your eligibility and the amount you are entitled to are based on your financial situation as of December 31 of the previous year. For example, Revenu Québec takes into consideration your financial situation as of December 31, 2025, for payments to be paid from July 2026 to June 2027.

The amount you will receive is the sum of the components for which you are eligible, which are detailed below. This amount gradually decreases according to your net family income. In other words, the higher your income, the less tax credit you will receive.

How much can you receive from the solidarity tax credit?

The lower your income, the higher the amount. Here is an example (July 2025 to June 2026):

• Individuals whose net family income is less than $42,325 can receive up to $1,256.
• A couple with two children can collect up to $1,910.

This tax credit decreases as family income increases. For individuals, the credit applies to a maximum of $63,258 in income. For a couple with two children, the threshold is $74,158.

You can estimate the amount you are entitled to using the Solidarity Tax Credit Payments Estimator on Revenu Québec's website.

What are the components of the solidarity tax credit?

This credit is a combination of three possible amounts. You may be eligible for one, two, or all three components at the same time.

• Housing component: You were the owner, tenant, or subtenant of an eligible dwelling (house, apartment, room) on December 31. Note: Generally, serviced residences such as long-term care centres (CHSLDs) or certain social housing units, like low-rental housing (HLM), are not eligible.
• QST component: This is a basic amount to offset the provincial sales tax. For the period from July 2025 to June 2026, each member of a household is entitled to $356. If you live alone, you will receive an additional $169, for a total of $525.
• Component for individuals living in northern villages: If you live in one of the 14 eligible northern villages, you can receive this additional assistance.

How can you claim the solidarity tax credit?

To claim these three components, you must fill out Schedule D of your provincial income tax return. Otherwise, you will only receive the basic amount related to QST. If you have a spouse, only one of you can claim the solidarity tax credit for both of you.

When is the solidarity tax credit paid?

The frequency of payments depends on the total amount you are entitled to for the period (July to June):

• Less than $240: one payment in July.
• From $241 to $799: four instalments in July, October, January and April.
• $800 or more: one payment per month.

FAQ

Can you retroactively claim the solidarity tax credit?

Yes! If you forgot to fill out Schedule D, you can go back up to four years with Revenu Québec. Don't forget to sign up for direct deposit to finalize your claim.

How do I claim the solidarity tax credit if my spouse no longer lives with me?

If your spouse or common-law partner is no longer residing in your home, for example they are permanently housed in a residential and long-term care centre (CHSLD), you must both complete Schedule D individually. This approach allows each person to claim the solidarity tax credit separately.

How do I claim the solidarity tax credit after bankruptcy?

Have you declared bankruptcy? You have the right to claim the solidarity tax credit. It will cover the tax period following the date of your bankruptcy.

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