2025 Canada Child Benefit Payment Dates – Full Monthly Schedule Explained
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to eligible families to assist with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age.
Understanding the payment schedule, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts for 2025 is crucial for effective financial planning.
Canada Child Benefit Payment Dates for 2025
The CRA typically issues CCB payments on the 20th of each month. If the 20th falls on a weekend or public holiday, the payment is made on the last business day before. Here are the scheduled payment dates for 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 |
Note: These dates are subject to change. It’s advisable to check the CRA’s official website for the most current information.
Eligibility Criteria for the CCB
To qualify for the CCB, you must meet the following conditions:
- Residency: Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- Child’s Age: Live with a child under 18 years of age.
- Primary Responsibility: Be primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child.
- Tax Filing: Both you and your spouse or common-law partner (if applicable) must file an annual income tax return.
Note: In shared custody situations, each parent may be eligible for 50% of the payment.
Maximum Benefit Amounts for July 2024 to June 2025
The CCB amounts are recalculated every July based on your adjusted family net income (AFNI) from the previous year. For the period of July 2024 to June 2025, the maximum annual benefits are:
- Children under 6 years: $7,787 annually ($648.91 per month)
- Children aged 6 to 17 years: $6,570 annually ($547.50 per month)
Note: These amounts are reduced as your AFNI increases above $36,502
How Payments Are Calculated
The CCB is calculated based on:
- Number of eligible children: More children may increase your benefit.
- Children’s ages: Different amounts are allocated based on age groups.
- Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI): Higher incomes may reduce the benefit.
- Eligibility for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC): Additional amounts may be available.
Note: The benefit starts to decrease when AFNI exceeds $36,502.
Additional Benefits: Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
If your child qualifies for the Disability Tax Credit, you may be eligible for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB). For the period of July 2024 to June 2025, the maximum annual CDB is $3,322 ($276.83 per month).
This amount begins to reduce when AFNI exceeds $79,087.
How to Apply for the CCB
You can apply for the CCB through:
- Automated Benefits Application: Available when registering the birth of your child in your province or territory.
- CRA My Account: Apply online through your CRA account.
- Form RC66: Complete and mail the Canada Child Benefits Application form.
Note: Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays in processing.
Keeping Your Information Up-to-Date
To ensure uninterrupted CCB payments:
- File Taxes Annually: Both you and your spouse or common-law partner must file taxes every year.
- Update Personal Information: Inform the CRA of any changes in marital status, number of children, or custody arrangements.
- Maintain Current Contact Details: Keep your address and banking information up-to-date with the CRA.
The Canada Child Benefit is a significant financial support program for families raising children in Canada.
By understanding the payment schedule, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts for 2025, you can better manage your household finances and ensure you receive the support you’re entitled to.
Always keep your personal information current with the CRA and file your taxes on time to maintain uninterrupted benefit payments.
FAQs
What should I do if I don’t receive my CCB payment on the expected date?
Wait five business days after the scheduled payment date. If the payment hasn’t arrived, contact the CRA for assistance.
Can I receive retroactive CCB payments?
yes, if you were eligible but didn’t apply, you can request retroactive payments for up to 10 years, provided you meet all eligibility criteria.
Is the CCB considered taxable income?
No, the Canada Child Benefit is a tax-free payment and does not need to be reported as income on your tax return.