Canadian families are once again marking their calendars. The Canada Child Benefit (CCB)—a tax-free monthly payment designed to help parents shoulder the cost of raising children—was last deposited on September 19, 2025, and the next payout is set for October 20, 2025. For millions of households, it’s not just a date—it’s a lifeline.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit?
The CCB is a government program administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It provides monthly cash support to eligible families raising children under 18. Unlike some benefits, the CCB is non-taxable, meaning the full amount lands in parents’ bank accounts without deductions.
The benefit level is adjusted annually, tied to both inflation and family income. Between July 2025 and June 2026, parents can receive up to:
| Child’s Age | Maximum Annual Benefit | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 years | $7,997 | About $666 per month |
| 6–17 years | $6,748 | About $562 per month |
Higher-income families will see reduced payments, as the CCB is income-tested.
Who Qualifies for the CCB 2025
To receive the benefit, families must meet a few criteria:
- You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- You’re the primary caregiver responsible for raising the child.
- The child must be under 18 years old.
- You’ve filed your 2024 income tax return (and all previous years).
- You or your spouse/partner must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or a temporary resident who’s lived in Canada for at least 18 months.
The CRA automatically calculates eligibility and payment amounts based on your tax filings.
Payment Schedule for 2025
Here’s when families can expect to see money hit their accounts:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| September 2025 | 19th |
| October 2025 | 20th |
| November 2025 | 20th |
| December 2025 | 12th |
Payments are direct-deposited for most families, though mailed cheques are still an option.
How to Apply for the CCB
Most new parents apply right after their child’s birth, often through the birth registration process at the hospital. But applications can also be made anytime online through My Account on the CRA website.
Steps:
- Log into your CRA account.
- Find the Canada Child Benefit application form.
- Fill in your details (child’s info, income, residency status).
- Upload required documents—such as a birth certificate, proof of residency, and ID.
- Submit the application.
Processing usually takes 6–8 weeks. Once approved, payments start the following month.
Why the CCB Matters
Raising children is expensive. Groceries, daycare, clothing, housing—costs add up fast. The CCB aims to bridge that gap, particularly for low- and middle-income families. According to government data, the program has helped lift thousands of Canadian children out of poverty since its introduction in 2016.
For example, a family with two children—one under six and one aged 8—could receive up to $14,745 per year, depending on household income. That’s over $1,200 a month, easing the strain of rising costs.
Preparing for October’s Payment
Families should make sure their direct deposit details with the CRA are up to date. Also, double-check that all past tax returns are filed—a missing return can delay or even stop payments.
FAQs:
When is the next Canada Child Benefit payment?
The next payment is scheduled for October 20, 2025.
How much will I receive per child in 2025?
Up to $7,997 annually for children under 6, and up to $6,748 for children aged 6–17.
Do I need to apply every year?
No. Once approved, payments continue automatically as long as you file your annual tax returns.
