As part of its ongoing efforts to support families, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) will see an increase starting in July 2025.
This important change is set to boost the financial security of millions of Canadian families, providing them with additional support to help cover the costs of raising children.
In this article, we will dive into the latest updates regarding the Canada Child Benefit increase, the amount families can expect to receive, and how to ensure you’re receiving the full benefit you’re entitled to.
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment offered by the Government of Canada to help families with the cost of raising children. The amount you receive depends on several factors, including your family income, the number of children you have, and their ages.
Introduced in 2016, the CCB replaced the previous Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB) and National Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS), making it a more generous and targeted program aimed at reducing child poverty and providing support to families across the country.
How Much Will the CCB Increase in July 2025?
Starting in July 2025, eligible families will see an increase in their monthly Canada Child Benefit payments. The exact amount of the increase will depend on your family’s income level and the number of children under 18 you have.
For families with lower incomes, the Canada Child Benefit will be significantly higher, with the maximum benefit increasing to $6,800 per year per child under the age of 6. For children aged 6 to 17, the maximum benefit will increase to $5,500 per year per child.
The benefit increase reflects the government’s continued efforts to support families with growing costs related to raising children, including education, healthcare, and day-to-day expenses.
Here is a table outlining the new benefit amounts for 2025:
| Age Group | Maximum Annual Benefit (Before July 2025) | Maximum Annual Benefit (After July 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Children under 6 | $6,500 | $6,800 |
| Children 6 to 17 | $5,400 | $5,500 |
Who Qualifies for the Canada Child Benefit Increase?
The Canada Child Benefit is available to families who meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Residency: The parent or guardian must be a Canadian resident, living in Canada.
- Age of Children: Children must be under the age of 18 and living with the parent or guardian who is applying for the benefit.
- Income Level: The amount of the benefit is income-tested. Families with higher incomes may receive a reduced amount or no benefit at all. The government uses the family income to determine how much support is provided.
When Will the New Payments Begin?
The Canada Child Benefit increase will start on July 2025, with the new, increased amounts reflected in your monthly payments.
Families will receive the adjusted payments for the second half of the year, helping them better manage the increasing costs of raising children during the summer months and beyond.
It is important to note that the CCB is paid monthly, typically around the 20th of each month.
How to Ensure You Get the Full Benefit
To make sure you’re receiving the maximum benefit, follow these steps:
- File Your Taxes: Ensure you file your taxes every year, even if you don’t owe any taxes. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) uses your tax information to determine your eligibility and benefit amount.
- Update Your Information: If your family situation changes (e.g., your income changes, a child turns 6), make sure to update your personal information with the CRA to ensure the correct benefit amount is calculated.
- Apply for the Benefit: If you haven’t applied yet, you can apply for the Canada Child Benefit through the CRA’s online services or by calling their toll-free number for assistance.
What Happens if Your Family Income Increases?
If your family income increases, it’s important to note that your Canada Child Benefit may be adjusted accordingly. Families with higher incomes receive lower benefit amounts, and those with very high incomes may be ineligible for any CCB payments.
The Canada Child Benefit increase in July 2025 is a significant development for families across Canada. The increase will help families deal with rising living costs and provide essential support to raise children.
Make sure to file your taxes and update your personal information with the CRA to ensure you are receiving the full benefit you’re entitled to.
FAQs
How often do I receive the Canada Child Benefit payments?
The Canada Child Benefit is paid monthly, typically on the 20th of each month.
Will the CCB increase for families with higher incomes?
While the benefit amount for families with lower incomes will increase, higher-income families may see a reduction in their benefits. The amount is income-tested.
What do I do if my child turns 6?
If your child turns 6, the benefit amount will be adjusted, and the payment will reflect the amount for children aged 6 to 17. Make sure to update your information with the CRA.