The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help families cover the costs of raising children. In February 2025, eligible families with children under six could receive up to $648.91 per month per child, while those with children aged six to seventeen could receive up to $547.50 per month. The payment amount depends on factors such as family income, number of children, and their ages.
This benefit is designed to ease financial burdens and ensure that children have access to essential resources, including education, childcare, and extracurricular activities. Knowing how the program works and how to apply can help families maximize their payments.
Canada Child Benefit
The Canada Child Benefit is a financial assistance program that supports families raising children under the age of eighteen. It is administered by the CRA and aims to reduce child poverty by providing additional income to families based on their financial needs.
The CCB is non-taxable, meaning recipients do not have to include it as income when filing taxes. Families receiving the CCB can use the funds for childcare, school expenses, healthcare, and other necessities.
Why is the CCB Important?
The CCB plays a crucial role in helping Canadian families manage their finances by:
- Bridging income gaps for lower-income households.
- Supporting single-parent families and vulnerable communities.
- Providing targeted financial assistance based on income and family size.
For many families, the CCB is essential in ensuring children have access to a stable and supportive environment.
Receive in 2025
The amount a family receives through the CCB depends on several factors, including family income, the number of children, and their ages.
Maximum Monthly Payments
| Age of Child | Maximum Monthly Payment | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 years | $648.91 | $7,786.92 |
| 6 to 17 years | $547.50 | $6,570.00 |
Example Scenario
A family with two children, one aged four and the other eight, and a net family income of $45,000 per year could receive:
- $648.91 per month for the four-year-old.
- $547.50 per month for the eight-year-old.
- Total Monthly Payment: $1,196.41.
Families with higher incomes may receive reduced amounts, while those with lower incomes may qualify for the full benefit.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit, families must meet certain requirements:
Residency
The applicant must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
Primary Caregiver
The person applying for the CCB must be the child’s primary caregiver, responsible for their daily needs, including food, clothing, and supervision.
Child’s Age
The child must be under eighteen years old.
Legal Status
The applicant or their spouse/common-law partner must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person.
- Be registered under the Indian Act.
- Be a temporary resident who has lived in Canada for at least eighteen months with a valid permit.
How to Apply
Applying for the Canada Child Benefit is a simple process. Families can apply as soon as they meet the eligibility criteria.
Step 1
If a child is born in Canada, parents can apply for the CCB automatically when registering the birth through their province’s vital statistics office.
Step 2
If a child’s birth was not registered this way, or if the applicant is new to Canada, they can apply online through the CRA My Account.
- Log into the CRA My Account.
- Click on the “Apply for Child Benefits” section.
- Enter the required details, including the child’s information.
- Submit supporting documents if requested.
Step 3
Families must report any changes that could affect their payments, such as:
- Marital status changes.
- Number of dependents.
- Income changes.
Keeping information updated ensures that families receive the correct payment amount.
When and How Are Payments Made?
Canada Child Benefit payments are issued on the 20th of each month. If the 20th falls on a weekend or public holiday, payments are made on the last business day before that date.
Key Points to Remember
- Payment amounts may change if a family’s income or circumstances change.
- Some provinces, such as Ontario and Quebec, offer additional child benefits that may be included with the CCB payment.
Additional Benefits
In addition to the Canada Child Benefit, some provinces offer supplementary financial assistance for families with children.
- Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) – Provides additional support for low-income families in Ontario.
- Quebec Family Allowance – A provincial program that supplements the CCB for Quebec residents.
Families should check their provincial government’s website for details on additional programs they may qualify for.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the Canada Child Benefit?
Canadian residents with children under 18 who meet income and residency requirements.
How much can I receive per child in 2025?
Up to $648.91 per month for children under 6, and $547.50 for children 6-17.
When are CCB payments made?
Payments are made on the 20th of each month, or the last business day before a holiday.
How do I apply for the CCB?
Apply through CRA My Account or when registering a child’s birth.
Will my CCB payment change if my income increases?
Yes, higher income may reduce the amount you receive.
