Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment offered by the Government of Canada to support eligible families in managing the expenses of raising children under 18 years of age. In 2025, the Canada Child Benefit continues to be administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), serving as a key financial resource for families, especially those with low to moderate incomes.
For the 2025 benefit year, the CCB includes annual inflation adjustments and offers enhanced support for children with disabilities. This ensures the benefit keeps pace with the cost of living while continuing to reduce child poverty across Canada.
Who Is Eligible for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit, you must meet all of the following eligibility criteria:
- You live with a child who is under 18 years old.
- You are primarily responsible for the child’s care and upbringing.
This typically means you manage the child’s daily routines and ensure their basic needs—such as food, clothing, health care, and emotional well-being—are met. - You are a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- You or your spouse/common-law partner must fall into at least one of these categories:
- Canadian citizen
- Permanent resident
- Protected person (must have received a positive Notice of Decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada)
- Temporary resident who has lived in Canada for the past 18 months and holds a valid permit in the 19th month (permit must not include “does not confer status” or “does not confer temporary resident status”)
- Individual registered or entitled to be registered under the Indian Act
Important Notes:
- You are not eligible for the CCB for any month during which a foster child under your care is receiving the Children’s Special Allowances (CSA).
- You may qualify for the CCB if you care for a child under a kinship or close relationship program administered by a government or Indigenous authority, as long as CSA is not being paid for that child.
How Much Can You Receive in 2025?
The CCB amounts for July 2024 to June 2025 are:
- Up to $7,787 per year for each child under age 6 (approx. $649/month)
- Up to $6,570 per year for each child aged 6–17 (approx. $547/month)
The benefit amount gradually decreases as family net income increases, starting at $36,502.
In addition, if your child is eligible for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB), you may receive up to $3,173 more per year.
2025 CCB Payment Dates
CCB payments are made monthly, usually on the 20th of each month (or the closest business day). The 2025 payment schedule is:
- January 19, 2025 (Friday)
- February 20, 2025 (Tuesday)
- March 20, 2025 (Thursday)
- April 18, 2025 (Friday)
- May 20, 2025 (Tuesday)
- June 20, 2025 (Friday)
- July 19, 2025 (Saturday)
- August 20, 2025 (Wednesday)
- September 19, 2025 (Friday)
- October 18, 2025 (Saturday)
- November 20, 2025 (Thursday)
- December 19, 2025 (Friday)
Tip: You can check your CCB status and past payments in your CRA My Account.
How to Apply for the CCB
Option 1: At Birth
Apply through the “Automated Benefits Application” during birth registration (available in most provinces).
Option 2: Online (via CRA)
Log into CRA My Account and follow the “Apply for child benefits” section. Upload or mail required documents as needed.
Option 3: By Mail
Submit Form RC66 along with RC66SCH (if applicable) by post.
Do I Need to Reapply Every Year?
No — once you’ve applied, you don’t need to reapply each year. However, to keep receiving the benefit:
- You must file your tax return every year (and your spouse/common-law partner must too)
- You must keep your personal details up to date with CRA
What If I Missed a Payment or Think the Amount Is Wrong?
If you believe your CCB payment is late or incorrect:
- Check your CRA My Account for updates
- Call the CRA benefit enquiries line at 1-800-387-1193
- Ensure your direct deposit information is current
Final Tips for Maximizing Your CCB
- Always file your taxes on time — even with no income
- Report household or custody changes promptly
- If you recently arrived in Canada, apply after 18 months with valid status
