The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is slated for an increase in mid-2025, with adjustments taking effect from July 2025 for the 2025-2026 benefit year.
This enhancement, estimated at 2.7%, aligns with inflation and will provide monthly payments of up to $666 per child under 6 and $562 for children aged 6 to 17. The revision aims to support families facing rising living expenses.
This article covers essential details regarding the CCB update, including eligibility, payment calculation, new income thresholds, application procedures, and the additional Child Disability Benefit (CDB).
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to assist families in covering the cost of raising children under 18.
Introduced in July 2016, it replaced previous programs like the Universal Child Care Benefit to reduce child poverty and ease household financial burdens for essentials such as food, clothing, and housing.
Due to its tax-free structure and income-adjusted model, the CCB plays a crucial role in Canada’s social support system, benefiting millions of families annually.
Details of the CCB Increase in July 2025
Starting in July 2025, the Canada Child Benefit will increase by approximately 2.7%, following the Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment. This ensures that the benefit maintains its purchasing power.
New Maximum CCB Payments for 2025-2026
| Child’s Age Group | Monthly Benefit | Annual Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Children under 6 | $666.42 | $7,997 |
| Children aged 6 to 17 | $562.33 | $6,748 |
This increase is automatically applied based on 2024 tax returns, ensuring that eligible families receive higher payments from mid-2025 onwards.
Eligibility Criteria for CCB
To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit, applicants must meet these requirements:
- Residency Status: Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes. Eligible applicants include citizens, permanent residents, protected persons (refugees), and certain temporary residents.
- Parental Responsibility: The applicant must live with the child and be primarily responsible for their upbringing.
- Child’s Age: 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 (excluding permits marked “does not confer status”).
- New Immigrants: Permanent residents qualify immediately, while other categories (e.g., refugees) may require additional verification.
- Retroactive Payments: Eligible families who missed CCB payments can apply for retroactive benefits for up to 10 years.
How is CCB Payment Calculated?
The amount a family receives depends on their adjusted family net income (AFNI) and the age of the child.
CCB Payment Breakdown (2025-2026)
| Category | Monthly Amount | Annual Amount |
| Children under 6 | $666.42 | $7,997 |
| Children aged 6 to 17 | $562.33 | $6,748 |
Income Threshold and Benefit Reductions
- Families with an AFNI of $37,487 or less receive full benefits.
- For incomes between $37,487 and $81,222, a 13.5% reduction rate applies.
- For incomes exceeding $81,222, an additional 5.7% reduction is applied.
The CRA’s online calculator helps families estimate their expected CCB payment based on their specific income.
How to Apply for CCB?
Applying for the Canada Child Benefit is straightforward and can be done in multiple ways:
- Online: Through the CRA My Account (fastest processing option).
- By Mail: Submit Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefit Application) and Form RC66SCH (Status in Canada/Income Information) along with residency proof.
- Newborn Registration: Apply via provincial birth registration services, often at hospitals (available in provinces like Ontario and BC).
For late applications (over 11 months), supporting documents such as birth certificates or immigration records may be required.
CCB Payment Dates for 2025
The Canada Child Benefit is typically issued on the 20th of each month, except when it falls on a weekend or holiday.
| Payment Date |
| 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 Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
The Child Disability Benefit (CDB) provides extra financial assistance to families caring for children under 18 who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit.
- CDB for 2025-2026: $3,411 annually (paid monthly with the CCB).
- Inflation-Adjusted Increase: Up from $3,322 in 2024-2025.
- Eligibility: The child must be medically certified for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
New CCB Changes Effective January 2025
A new policy effective January 2025 ensures that CCB and CDB payments continue for six months after a child’s death, helping families cover expenses like funeral costs.
Additionally, provincial benefits, such as the BC Family Benefit, may be combined with the CCB payments to provide extra financial support.
The Canada Child Benefit increase in July 2025 marks a significant enhancement for families across the country. With higher payments of up to $7,997 for children under 6 and $6,748 for those aged 6 to 17, this adjustment aims to provide much-needed relief amid inflation.
With clear eligibility requirements, a structured payment calculation, and easy application processes, the CCB remains a cornerstone of Canada’s family support system. Combined with the Child Disability Benefit and a consistent payment schedule, this program reinforces Canada’s dedication to child welfare.
For more information, visit the official Canada Child Benefit Overview page.
FAQs
How much is the CCB increase for 2025?
Parents will receive up to $7,997 annually ($666.42 monthly) for children under 6 and $6,748 annually ($562.33 monthly) for children aged 6-17.
What is the new income threshold for maximum CCB benefits in 2025?
Families with an adjusted family net income (AFNI) below $37,487 qualify for full CCB benefits. Payments decrease as income surpasses this threshold.