The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) plays a vital role in supporting Canadian families, providing monthly tax-free payments to help cover the cost of raising children. As 2025 begins, eligible parents can expect their first Canada Child Benefit payment on Monday, January 20, 2025.
Table of Contents
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what the Canada Child Benefit is, how much families can expect to receive in 2025, recent and upcoming increases, and key payment dates.
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit is a government-provided, tax-free monthly payment aimed at helping parents cover the cost of raising children under 18. Introduced in 2016, the program is adjusted annually to reflect changes in the cost of living using the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Each year, the maximum benefit and income thresholds for the Canada Child Benefit increase to provide families with enhanced financial support. This ensures the payments keep pace with inflation and rising living costs.
OAS Payment Dates in 2025: Amount, Increase & Benefits
How Much is the Canada Child Benefit in 2025?
The Canada Child Benefit saw a 4.7% increase starting July 2024, which significantly boosted the financial support for parents. In July 2025, another increase will take effect, though at a smaller rate of 2.7%.
Current CCB Payments (July 2024–June 2025)
- Children under 6: Up to $7,787 annually ($649/month).
- Children aged 6–17: Up to $6,570 annually ($548/month).
Upcoming CCB Payments (July 2025–June 2026)
- Children under 6: Up to $7,997 annually ($666/month).
- Children aged 6–17: Up to $6,748 annually ($562/month).
Additionally, the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) for children with disabilities will increase from $3,322 to $3,411 annually, starting July 2025.
Canada Revenue Agency $928 Payment: Who is Eligible & Payment Date
CPP Disability Benefit 2025: Application, Payment Dates & Amount
CPP Contribution 2025: Key Rates, Maximums, and Exemptions You Need to Know
Provincial Benefits: Additional Support for Families in British Columbia
Families in British Columbia can also take advantage of the B.C. Family Benefit, which includes a six-month bonus payment.
Maximum Annual B.C. Family Benefit (Including Bonus Payment)
- First child: $2,188
- Second child: $1,375
- Each additional child: $1,125
These payments are separate from the Canada Child Benefit and provide additional financial assistance to families in the province.
Key Dates for Canada Child Benefit Payments in 2025
To ensure you receive your Canada Child Benefit on time, mark your calendar with these important dates:
- January 20, 2025
- February 20, 2025
- March 20, 2025
- April 18, 2025
- May 20, 2025
- June 20, 2025
- July 19, 2025
- August 20, 2025
- September 19, 2025
- October 20, 2025
- November 20, 2025
- December 19, 2025
Payments are typically deposited on the 20th of each month. If the date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deposit may occur the previous business day.
How to Determine Your Eligibility for the Canada Child Benefit
To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Live with the child, who must be under 18 years old.
- Be primarily responsible for the child’s care and upbringing.
- File your taxes annually, even if you have no income.
If you’re unsure of your eligibility, take the CRA eligibility test to confirm your status and ensure you don’t miss out on these vital payments.
What If You Haven’t Received Your Canada Child Benefit?
If you’re eligible for the Canada Child Benefit but haven’t received your payment:
- Ensure your taxes are filed: The CRA uses information from your tax return to calculate your benefit.
- Update your personal details: Ensure the CRA has your correct address, marital status, and direct deposit information.
- Contact the CRA: If everything is in order but payments are delayed, reach out to the CRA for assistance.
How Are Canada Child Benefit Payments Calculated?
The amount you receive depends on several factors, including:
- Your adjusted family net income (AFNI).
- The number of children in your care.
- The age of your children (under 6 or between 6–17).
- Whether your child qualifies for the Child Disability Benefit.
Tips for Maximizing Your Canada Child Benefit
- Plan Ahead for Payments: Use the scheduled Canada Child Benefit payment dates to plan your monthly budget and prioritize necessities like groceries, school supplies, and childcare costs.
- Update Your Information: Notify the CRA immediately of changes in your marital status, income, or family size to ensure your payments are accurate.
- Save for the Future: Consider using a portion of your benefit for long-term goals, such as opening a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) for your child’s education.
What’s Next for Canada Child Benefit Recipients?
Parents can expect another increase in the Canada Child Benefit in July 2025, offering a 2.7% bump in financial support to help offset rising living costs.
While the increase is smaller compared to previous years (4.7% in 2024 and 6.3% in 2023), the CCB continues to provide essential support to Canadian families, ensuring parents can provide a stable and nurturing environment for their children.
Final Thoughts: Understanding the Canada Child Benefit in 2025
The Canada Child Benefit is a lifeline for millions of Canadian families, offering monthly tax-free payments to cover the rising costs of raising children. By staying informed about the Canada Child Benefit payment dates, eligibility criteria, and annual increases, you can maximize the benefits available to your family.
For more details, visit the official Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website and ensure your tax filings and personal information are up-to-date to receive your payments without delay.
One thought on “Canada Child Benefit Schedule 2025: Payments and Increases”