In a welcome financial relief for Canadian families, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is set to increase starting July 2025, coinciding with the 2025-2026 benefit year. This adjustment aims to support households facing rising costs and inflation.
The revised CCB payments will see a 2.7% increase, aligning with inflation trends. This means families can now receive up to $666 per month for children under six years old and $562 monthly for those aged 6 to 17.
Let’s dive into the CCB update, covering eligibility criteria, income thresholds, payment calculations, application process, 2025 payment schedule, and Child Disability Benefit (CDB) updates.
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly financial aid provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to assist families raising children under 18 years old.
Introduced in July 2016, the CCB replaced previous programs such as the Universal Child Care Benefit to better address child poverty and reduce financial strain by covering costs related to food, housing, and clothing.
As an income-targeted program, the CCB ensures families with lower incomes receive the highest payments, benefiting millions of households across Canada annually.
Details of the 2025 CCB Increase
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) adjusts CCB payments annually based on inflation trends. For the 2025-2026 benefit year, the maximum annual payments will be:
| Child’s Age | Monthly Payment | Annual Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 | $666.42 | $7,997 |
| 6 to 17 | $562.33 | $6,748 |
This increase ensures that families continue to receive adequate financial assistance, offsetting the impact of inflation. The adjustment is automatically applied based on the 2024 tax returns.
CCB Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit, parents must meet the following eligibility criteria:
General Requirements
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Be primarily responsible for the child’s care and upbringing.
- The child must be under 18 years old.
Eligibility for Temporary Residents & New Immigrants
- Temporary Residents: Must have lived in Canada for at least 18 consecutive months and hold a valid permit in the 19th month.
- New Immigrants: Permanent residents qualify immediately, while other categories (e.g., refugees) may need to establish residency.
Filing an annual tax return is mandatory, as the CRA calculates CCB payments based on adjusted family net income (AFNI).
How CCB Payments Are Calculated?
The Canada Child Benefit is determined based on income levels and the child’s age.
CCB Maximum Payments (July 2025 – June 2026)
- Children under 6 years: $7,997 annually ($666.42 per month).
- Children aged 6-17: $6,748 annually ($562.33 per month).
Income Threshold & Reduction Rates
- Families with an Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) below $37,487 will receive the full CCB amount.
- As AFNI increases, benefits gradually decrease:
- For incomes between $37,487 – $81,222, a 13.5% reduction rate applies.
- Incomes above $81,222 face an additional 5.7% reduction rate.
To estimate your CCB amount, use the CRA’s Canada Child Benefit Calculator.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit?
Applying for CCB is simple and can be done through the following methods:
- Online: Via CRA My Account.
- Mail: Submit Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefit Application) and Form RC66SCH (Status in Canada/Income Information) if required.
- Newborns: Apply via provincial birth registration (e.g., Ontario, BC). Processing takes about 8 weeks.
Late applications may require proof such as a birth certificate or immigration documents. Approved applicants begin receiving payments the following month, including potential retroactive payments.
CCB Payment Schedule 2025
CCB payments are typically issued on the 20th of each month, unless it falls on a weekend or holiday.
Canada Child Benefit Payment Dates 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 |
Additional Support: Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
The Child Disability Benefit (CDB) is an extra tax-free payment under the CCB for families raising children under 18 with disabilities.
CDB Increase for 2025-2026
- Annual payment: $3,411 (up from $3,322 in 2024).
- Paid monthly along with CCB payments.
- To qualify, the child must be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
New CCB Policy Effective January 2025
A significant policy update in January 2025 ensures that CCB and CDB payments continue for six months after a child’s passing, offering support for funeral expenses.
Additionally, provincial benefits, such as the BC Family Benefit, may be stacked with CCB payments, increasing financial assistance for low- and middle-income families.
The Canada Child Benefit increase in 2025 provides much-needed financial relief, with new payments reaching $7,997 for children under 6 and $6,748 for those aged 6-17.
With a clear application process, structured payment schedule, and income-based calculation, the CCB remains a vital pillar of Canada’s child welfare system. Additionally, the Child Disability Benefit and new CCB policy changes further enhance support for eligible families.
For more information, visit Canada Child Benefit Overview.
FAQs
How much is the CCB increase in 2025?
Parents can receive up to $7,997 annually ($666.42 per month) for children under 6 and $6,748 annually ($562.33 per month) for those aged 6 to 17.
What is the new income threshold for the maximum CCB benefit in 2025?
Families with an Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) below $37,487 qualify for the full CCB amount. Payments reduce as income surpasses this level.