Starting in 2025, eligible Canadian families can access substantial financial support through the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), a program designed to assist those with children under 18. The CCB provides up to $7,997 annually per child under six years old, and up to $6,748 annually for children aged six to 17. This payment is crucial for many Canadian families, offering financial relief amid rising costs of living. Below, we explore how to claim this benefit, the eligibility criteria, and everything you need to know about the 2025 payment schedule.
$7997 Canada Child Benefit
| Key Fact | Detail/Statistic |
|---|---|
| Maximum CCB Payment (Under 6) | $7,997 per child annually ($666.42/month) |
| Maximum CCB Payment (6-17) | $6,748 per child annually ($562.33/month) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Must be a Canadian resident with primary care of child under 18 |
| Payment Dates | Monthly payments starting January 2025 |
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) remains a critical financial support for Canadian families, especially as costs of living continue to rise. With the new payment schedule for 2025 and an expanded benefit amount of up to $7,997 for children under 6, it is important for eligible families to ensure their tax filings and personal information are up to date. Applying for and receiving the CCB is a crucial step toward easing financial burdens and supporting children’s well-being across the country.
What is the Canada Child Benefit?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment provided to eligible Canadian families to help cover the costs of raising children. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the CCB is designed to reduce poverty and ensure that children in Canada are supported, especially in lower-income households. The payment amount is determined based on family income, the number of children in the household, and their ages.
In 2025, families can receive up to $7,997 per year for each child under 6 years old and $6,748 for children aged 6 to 17. The benefit is income-tested, meaning that families with higher annual incomes will receive lower amounts or no benefit at all.
How to Claim the Canada Child Benefit
Applying for the CCB is a straightforward process, but it requires families to follow a few important steps:
1. File Your Tax Return
Even if you have no income, it is essential to file your taxes annually to remain eligible for the CCB. Your family’s income will be assessed, and the payment will be adjusted accordingly. The CRA uses this information to calculate your benefit amount, so staying up-to-date with tax filings is crucial.
2. Apply for the CCB
You can apply for the CCB through three main routes:
- At Birth Registration: When registering the birth of your child, you can simultaneously apply for the CCB.
- Online Application: For those with a CRA My Account, you can apply for the CCB directly online.
- Paper Application: If you prefer, you can download and complete form RC66, “Canada Child Benefits Application,” and mail it to the CRA.
It generally takes the CRA 6-8 weeks to process your application, after which you will start receiving your monthly payments.
3. Keep Your Information Updated
It is essential to keep your information up-to-date with the CRA, especially if there are changes in your family circumstances, such as a change of income or the birth of a child. This ensures that you receive the correct amount of CCB.
Eligibility for the $7997 Canada Child Benefit
The CCB is available to Canadian families that meet specific eligibility requirements. To qualify, families must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Primary Caregiver: You must be primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of a child who is under the age of 18.
- Income: The benefit is income-tested, meaning the amount you receive will be based on your adjusted family net income. Higher incomes may lead to reduced or no benefit.
- Tax Filing: Both you and your spouse or common-law partner must file your tax returns annually. Even if you have no income, it is essential to file your tax return to qualify for the CCB.
- Immigration Status: If you are a permanent resident, Canadian citizen, or hold certain temporary statuses, you may qualify. The full list of eligible immigration statuses can be found on the CRA website.
If you are the primary caregiver of a child, but share custody with another parent, you may still be eligible for 50% of the CCB, based on your income.
Payment Dates for 2025
The Canada Child Benefit is typically paid on the 20th of each month, though the exact date may vary slightly. For 2025, the payment dates are as follows:
- January 20
- February 20
- March 20
- April 18
- May 20
- June 20
- July 18
- August 20
- September 19
- October 20
- November 20
- December 19
These payments are made directly into your bank account, so it’s essential to ensure your banking information is updated with the CRA to avoid delays.
Additional Considerations
Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
In addition to the regular CCB, families with children who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit may also be eligible for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB). This supplementary payment can amount to up to $3,411 per year ($284.25 per month) and is in addition to the regular CCB.
Provincial and Territorial Benefits
Certain provinces and territories offer additional child benefit programs that complement the federal CCB. These include the Alberta Child and Family Benefit, the British Columbia Family Benefit, and other regional programs that may provide extra support for qualifying families.
$7,997 Canada Child Benefit 2025, CRA Confirms New Monthly Payouts
FAQ About $7997 Canada Child Benefit
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment provided to eligible families with children under the age of 18. The amount varies based on family income, the number of children, and their ages.
For children under 6 years old, families can receive up to $7,997 annually, or $666.42 per month. For children aged 6 to 17, families can receive up to $6,748 annually, or $562.33 per month.
You can apply for the CCB by filing your taxes, completing the application at birth registration, applying online through your CRA My Account, or submitting a paper application using form RC66.
Yes, you can still receive the CCB if you file your taxes annually, even if you have no income. The CRA assesses your eligibility based on your family’s financial circumstances.
If you share custody of a child, you may be eligible to receive 50% of the CCB payment, based on your individual income and circumstances.
If your child is eligible for the Disability Tax Credit, you may receive an additional benefit called the Child Disability Benefit (CDB), which can amount to up to $3,411 annually or $284.25 per month.
CCB payments are generally made on the 20th of each month. For 2025, specific payment dates include January 20, February 20, March 20, and subsequent monthly payments throughout the year.
