Families across Canada are set to receive a substantial increase in financial support as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) continues into July 2025 with updated maximum payment rates. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will deliver tax-free payments to eligible parents and guardians, with up to $7,787 for children under 6 and up to $6,570 for children aged 6 to 17, depending on household income.
This article explains who qualifies, how to calculate your benefit, how to apply, and what you need to know to avoid delays and maximize your CCB payments.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit is a monthly, tax-free payment made to eligible families to help with the cost of raising children under the age of 18. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this benefit is designed to provide financial relief and promote economic stability for parents.
The benefit is recalculated annually every July, based on your adjusted family net income (AFNI) from the previous tax year.
Maximum Benefit Amounts for 2025–2026
For the benefit year July 2025 to June 2026, the CRA has confirmed the following maximum annual payments:
Child’s Age | Annual CCB Amount (for low-income families) |
---|---|
Under 6 years | $7,787 per child |
6 to 17 years | $6,570 per child |
These maximum payments apply to households with an annual net income below $36,502. Families with higher incomes may still qualify for partial benefits, calculated on a sliding scale.
How Does the CCB Work?
The CRA calculates your payment based on your AFNI, the number of eligible children, and their ages. Here are estimated annual benefit amounts for various income levels:
Family Income | Child’s Age | Estimated Annual CCB |
---|---|---|
$30,000 | 3 years | $7,787 |
$30,000 | 12 years | $6,570 |
$65,000 | 5 years | Approx. $5,000 |
$100,000 | 7 years | Approx. $2,000 |
$130,000 | 15 years | Approx. $500 |
The lower your income, the higher your CCB payout will be.
CCB Eligibility Criteria
To receive the Canada Child Benefit, you must meet the following criteria:
- Live with the child and be their primary caregiver
- Child must be under 18 years of age
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- You or your spouse/common-law partner must be:
- A Canadian citizen
- A permanent resident
- A protected person
- A status Indian
- A temporary resident living in Canada for at least 18 months with a valid permit
The primary caregiver is usually the parent who provides day-to-day care, often the mother, but it can be any legal guardian.
Canada Child Benefit 2025 Payment Dates
The CRA issues CCB payments monthly, and the 2025 schedule includes the following dates:
- January 20, 2025
- February 20, 2025
- March 20, 2025
- May 20, 2025
- June 17, 2025
- June 20, 2025
- July 18, 2025
Payments are generally made on the 20th of each month, except when that date falls on a weekend or holiday. If your payment is late, wait five business days before contacting the CRA.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
There are three main ways to apply for the CCB:
1. Through CRA My Account (Online)
Log in at cra.gc.ca and select “Apply for child benefits.”
This is the fastest and most secure method.
2. At the Time of Birth Registration
When registering a child’s birth, simply check the CCB application box and enter your SIN. The hospital will process your request.
3. Paper Application (Form RC66)
If you are unable to apply online or are new to Canada, you can download and submit Form RC66 by mail with supporting documents.
Smart Tips to Maximize Your CCB
To ensure smooth processing and avoid missed payments, follow these steps:
- File your income tax return every year, even if you have no income
- Update your status if there’s a life change (birth, separation, new custody arrangement)
- Opt for direct deposit to receive your funds quickly and securely
- Check payment status regularly via the CRA app or My Account
- Apply as early as possible to avoid delays in receiving benefits
Extra Support for Children with Disabilities: CDB
In addition to the CCB, families may qualify for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) if a child has a long-term physical or mental impairment.
- CDB provides up to $3,173 tax-free per year
- The child must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
This extra support is automatically added to your monthly CCB once eligibility is confirmed.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss Out on the July 2025 CCB Boost
The Canada Child Benefit July 2025 update brings substantial financial relief to eligible families, especially those earning lower incomes. With up to $7,787 per child under 6 and $6,570 for children aged 6 to 17, the program continues to be one of Canada’s most impactful social assistance measures.
To ensure you receive your full entitlement:
- Apply correctly
- Keep your information updated
- File taxes annually
- Check eligibility for additional supports like the CDB
This monthly tax-free support can help build a more stable and promising future for your children—don’t delay your claim.
FAQs: Quick Answers to Common CCB Questions
Q1. What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
A. The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment from the Canadian government to help eligible families with children under 18 cover basic living costs.
Q2. Do I need to file taxes to receive the CCB?
A. Yes. Filing a tax return is required, even with no income, to qualify or continue receiving CCB.
Q3. How is my payment calculated?
A. The CRA uses your Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) and the number and ages of your children to determine the payment.
Q4. What is the Child Disability Benefit (CDB)?
A. An extra tax-free benefit of up to $3,173/year for children with long-term disabilities. The child must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit.
Q5. How will I receive my CCB payments?
A. Payments are made via direct deposit (preferred) or cheque. Direct deposit ensures faster access to funds.