The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment provided to eligible families to assist with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age.
For the benefit year July 2024 to June 2025, the maximum annual CCB amount has been increased to $7,787 per child under 6 and $6,570 per child aged 6 to 17, reflecting a 4.7% rise from the previous year.
Eligibility Criteria for the Canada Child Benefit
To qualify for the CCB, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Residency: Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- Primary Caregiver: Be primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child.
- Child’s Age: Have a child under the age of 18.
- Legal Status: You or your spouse/common-law partner must be a:
- Canadian citizen
- Permanent resident
- Protected person
- Temporary resident who has lived in Canada for the previous 18 months with a valid permit
- Individual registered under the Indian Act
- Tax Filing: Both you and your spouse/common-law partner must file annual income tax returns, as CCB eligibility and amounts are based on family net income.
Note: You cannot receive the CCB for a foster child for any month in which Children’s Special Allowances are payable.
Canada Child Benefit Payment Dates for 2025
CCB payments are typically issued on the 20th of each month. For May 2025, the payment is scheduled for May 20, 2025.
Here is the full payment schedule for 2025:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 20, 2025 |
| February | February 20, 2025 |
| March | March 20, 2025 |
| April | April 17, 2025 |
| May | May 20, 2025 |
| June | June 20, 2025 |
| July | July 18, 2025 |
| August | August 20, 2025 |
| September | September 19, 2025 |
| October | October 20, 2025 |
| November | November 20, 2025 |
| December | December 12, 2025 |
If you do not receive your payment on the expected date, wait five business days before contacting the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
CCB Payment Amounts Based on Income
The amount you receive from the CCB depends on your Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI), the number of children, and their ages.
| AFNI Range | Reduction Rate | Example Calculation |
|---|---|---|
| Up to $36,502 | No reduction | Full amount: $7,787 per child under 6 |
| $36,502 – $79,087 | 7% of income over $36,502 | For AFNI of $45,000: $7,787 – ($8,498 × 7%) = $7,192.14 |
| Over $79,087 | $2,981 + 3.2% of income over $79,087 | For AFNI of $100,000: $7,787 – [$2,981 + ($20,913 × 3.2%)] = $4,136.78 |
These calculations are based on having one child under the age of 6.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
You can apply for the CCB through the following methods:
- Online Application:
- Log in to your CRA My Account.
- Navigate to the “Apply for child benefits” section.
- Follow the prompts to complete your application.
- At Birth Registration:
- In most provinces, you can apply for the CCB when registering your child’s birth.
- Consent to share your information with the CRA during the registration process.
- By Mail:
- Complete Form RC66, Canada Child Benefits Application.
- Mail the form along with any required documents to the CRA.
Ensure that you have your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and your child’s birth certificate when applying.
The Canada Child Benefit provides substantial financial support to families, with payments of up to $7,787 per child under 6 and $6,570 per child aged 6 to 17 for the 2024–2025 benefit year.
Understanding your eligibility, the payment schedule, and how to apply can help you maximize this benefit. Ensure your tax filings are current and your personal information with the CRA is up to date to receive timely payments.
FAQs
Can I receive the CCB if I share custody of my child?
Yes. If you share custody of your child, each parent may be entitled to receive 50% of the payment they would have received if the child lived with them full-time.
Is the Canada Child Benefit taxable?
No. The CCB is a tax-free benefit and does not need to be reported as income on your tax return.
What should I do if I miss a payment?
If you do not receive your CCB payment on the expected date, wait five business days before contacting the CRA. Ensure your banking information and address are up to date to avoid delays.