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In a move poised to bolster financial support for Canadian families, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is set to see a substantial increase by mid-2025. Beginning in July of the same year, the CCB will witness a 2.7% rise, aligned with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) trends from 2024. This adjustment provides much-needed relief to families grappling with rising living costs.
Details of the Increase
Starting from July 2025, the maximum annual payments for the CCB will be adjusted to:
- $666.42 per month for children under 6
- $562.33 per month for children aged 6 to 17
This increase, rooted in the CRA’s commitment to indexing benefits to inflation, ensures that the CCB's purchasing power is maintained. The updated amounts will automatically be disbursed to eligible families based on their 2024 tax returns.
Understanding the Canada Child Benefit
Launched in July 2016, the Canada Child Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to support families with children under 18 years of age. The CCB replaced earlier programs like the Universal Child Care Benefit, focusing on reducing child poverty and assisting with everyday expenses such as food, clothing, and housing.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CCB, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Residency: Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes. This includes citizens, permanent residents, protected persons (e.g., refugees), and certain temporary residents.
- Care Responsibility: Live with the child and be primarily responsible for their care and upbringing.
- Child's Age: The child must be under 18 years old.
Special Provisions for Temporary Residents and New Immigrants
Temporary Residents: Eligible if they have lived in Canada for at least 18 consecutive months and hold a valid permit in the 19th month (excluding permits marked "does not confer status"). This provision ensures that temporary residents with established ties can access support.
New Immigrants: Permanent residents qualify immediately upon arrival, while other immigrants, such as refugees, may need to establish residency status. Retroactive payments are available for up to 10 years if eligibility was missed.
Calculating the CCB Payment
The amount received under the CCB varies based on income and the child's age. The CRA calculates the payment using the following factors:
- Base Amount: The maximum benefit per child, adjusted by age.
- Income Reduction: For families with an adjusted family net income (AFNI) over $37,487, the benefit gradually decreases. The reduction rates vary depending on family size and income levels.
For personalized estimates, the CRA’s online calculator can be used.
How to Apply for the CCB
Applying for the CCB can be done through several methods:
- Online: Via the CRA My Account portal.
- Mail: By completing Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefit Application) and, if necessary, Form RC66SCH (Status in Canada/Income Information). Late applications may require proof of residency, such as a birth certificate or immigration documents.
- Newborns: Applications can be made through provincial birth registration, often at the hospital. Processing typically takes around eight weeks.
CCB Payment Dates for 2025
CCB payments are typically issued on the 20th of each month, with adjustments made for weekends or holidays. The payment schedule for 2025 is as follows:
- January 20, 2025
- February 20, 2025
- March 20, 2025
- April 17, 2025
- May 20, 2025
- June 20, 2025
- July 18, 2025
- August 20, 2025
- September 19, 2025
- October 20, 2025
- November 20, 2025
- December 12, 2025
Additional Support through the Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
The Child Disability Benefit (CDB) is an additional tax-free amount included in the CCB for families caring for a child under 18 eligible for the disability tax credit. For the 2025-2026 benefit year, the annual CDB amount is $3,411, providing support for extra costs associated with disabilities.
New CCB Changes Effective January 2025
From January 2025, CCB and CDB payments will continue for six months after a child’s death, providing financial support for funeral costs. This compassionate policy shift recognizes the additional burdens families face during such times.
The confirmed CCB increase in mid-2025, paired with clear eligibility criteria and accessible application options, ensures that the CCB remains a vital support system for Canadian families. For more information, visit the Canada Child Benefit Overview.
