Raising children in today’s economic climate can be overwhelming, but the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) offers essential financial support to help ease the burden. For 2025, eligible Canadian families can receive up to $648.91 per month per child under six, and $547.50 for children aged 6–17.
This tax-free monthly payment is issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and plays a vital role in supporting low- and middle-income families across the country.
Whether you’re a first-time parent, new to Canada, or unsure if you qualify, this guide explains everything you need to know about the CCB in 2025—including eligibility, payment amounts, key dates, and how to apply.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The CCB is a non-taxable monthly payment from the CRA designed to assist eligible families with the costs of raising children under 18. It replaced the Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB) and Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB) in 2016, streamlining support into a single, inflation-adjusted program.
Key Features of the CCB 2025
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Maximum (Under 6) | $648.91/month per child |
Maximum (Aged 6–17) | $547.50/month per child |
Disability Add-On | Up to $276.83/month per child |
Income Threshold | Full benefit if income is below $36,502 |
Payment Dates | 20th of each month (next: July 20, 2025) |
Application Options | Online, birth registration, or mail |
Eligibility for the CCB in 2025
To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit in 2025, you must meet all of the following criteria:
Residency
- You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
Primary Caregiver
- You must live with the child and be primarily responsible for their care and upbringing.
Tax Filing
- You and your spouse (if applicable) must file your income tax returns annually.
Immigration Status
At least one parent must be a:
- Canadian citizen
- Permanent resident
- Protected person
- Temporary resident with valid permits for at least 18 months
How Much Will You Receive in 2025?
The amount depends on your adjusted family net income (AFNI), number of children, and their ages. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Child Age | Monthly Payment (Max) | Annual Total (Max) |
---|---|---|
Under 6 | $648.91 | $7,786.92 |
Age 6–17 | $547.50 | $6,570.00 |
Disability Add-On | $276.83 | $3,322.00 |
Example:
A family with two children under six and an income of $30,000 would receive the full benefit:
- $648.91 × 2 = $1,297.82/month
- That totals $15,573.84 per year, tax-free.
When Will You Get Paid?
CCB payments are usually made on the 20th of each month, but there are exceptions due to weekends or holidays.
Upcoming CCB Payment Dates
Month | Payment Date |
---|---|
June | June 13, 2025 |
July | July 20, 2025 |
August | August 20, 2025 |
You can track your payment status via CRA My Account or sign up for direct deposit for quicker access.
How to Apply for the CCB
If you’re not yet receiving the CCB, here are three ways to apply:
1. At Birth Registration
- When registering your child’s birth, check the box to share info with the CRA. This will automatically initiate your CCB application.
2. Online via CRA My Account
- Log in and select “Apply for child benefits”
- Submit the necessary documentation digitally
3. By Mail
- Complete Form RC66 and send it with supporting documents to the CRA office
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these errors that delay or reduce payments:
- Not filing annual tax returns (required even if your income is zero)
- Missing documents (e.g., proof of residency or custody)
- Failing to update marital or income changes
- Ignoring CRA requests for additional information
Criteria / Detail | Requirement / Info |
---|---|
Max Monthly Payment | $648.91 (under 6), $547.50 (6–17) |
Disability Add-On | $276.83/month per eligible child |
Income Threshold (Full Amount) | Under $36,502 |
Tax Filing Required | Yes (for both parents, if applicable) |
Payment Frequency | Monthly (20th, except for exceptions) |
Application Methods | Birth registration, online, or mail |
The $648.91 Canada Child Benefit in 2025 remains one of the most significant ways families can receive financial support for raising children.
With inflation-adjusted payouts, a disability supplement, and multiple application options, it’s easier than ever to claim what you’re entitled to.
Make sure your tax information is current, apply early if you haven’t already, and monitor your CRA My Account for updates. This benefit can add thousands of dollars to your household income—so don’t leave it unclaimed.
FAQs
Can I still get the CCB if I’m working or have savings?
Yes. The CCB is non-taxable and not based on assets or employment, but rather on your family income.
When is the next CCB payment date?
The next payment date is June 13, 2025, followed by July 20 and August 20.
What happens if my income changes mid-year?
The CRA will recalculate your benefit after your next tax filing. Report major changes (like marital status) promptly to avoid issues.