In 2025, families in Canada will continue to benefit from the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), a key financial program from the federal government that supports families raising children. If you’ve heard about the $445 Canada Family Benefit and are wondering how it ties into the CCB—or how much you might receive this year—this guide breaks it all down in simple terms.
Whether you’re new to child benefits or just want to make sure you’re maximizing your payments, knowing how the system works can make a real difference in your household finances.
Overview
The CCB provides tax-free monthly payments to eligible families with children under 18. It’s based on family income, number of children, and the children’s ages. For 2025, the maximum annual benefit per child is:
| Age Group | Maximum Annual Benefit | Approx. Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 years old | $6,997 | $583 |
| Ages 6 to 17 | $5,903 | $492 |
Some families may also receive an additional Disability Supplement if their child has a qualifying condition. These payments are designed to help with essentials such as food, clothing, housing, education, and more.
History
The CCB was introduced in 2016, replacing the Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB) and other programs. It simplified things by offering one income-tested, tax-free monthly payment. The main goal? To help reduce child poverty and support families raising kids, especially those on lower and middle incomes.
In 2025, the Canada Family Benefit—often mentioned alongside the CCB—is an extension of this effort, with a focus on affordability and consistent monthly support.
Eligibility for CCB in 2025
To receive CCB payments in 2025, you must meet the following conditions:
1. Residency and Caregiving
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- Be the primary caregiver of a child under the age of 18.
2. Income-Based Qualification
Your adjusted family net income from the previous year determines how much you receive. The lower your income, the more you qualify for.
- Under $32,000: Likely to receive the full amount.
- Over $150,000: Payment is reduced significantly.
3. Child’s Age
Children must be under 18 years old and living with you to qualify.
4. Tax Filing Requirement
Both you and your spouse (if applicable) must file your taxes every year, even if you had no income. This is essential for the CRA to calculate your eligibility.
CCB Payment Dates for 2025
CCB payments are issued on the 20th of each month. If the 20th falls on a weekend or holiday, you’ll receive it on the next business day.
Here are the expected dates for 2025:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 22 (Monday) |
| February | February 20 (Tuesday) |
| March | March 20 (Thursday) |
| April | April 20 (Sunday) → April 22 (Tuesday) |
| May | May 20 (Tuesday) |
| June | June 20 (Friday) |
| July | July 20 (Sunday) → July 22 (Tuesday) |
| August | August 20 (Wednesday) |
| September | September 20 (Saturday) → September 23 (Monday) |
| October | October 20 (Monday) |
| November | November 20 (Thursday) |
| December | December 20 (Saturday) → December 22 (Monday) |
You’ll receive the funds via direct deposit if you’ve registered your banking info with CRA, or by mail if you haven’t.
How to Maximize Your Canada Child Benefit
Want to get the most out of your CCB in 2025? Here are some practical tips:
1. File Taxes on Time
Even if you earned no income, both parents must file a tax return every year. Delays in filing can pause your payments.
2. Update Your Information
Keep the CRA updated with:
- Changes in marital status
- Birth or adoption of a new child
- Address or custody arrangement changes
3. Check for Disability Supplements
If your child has a disability, you could be entitled to a CCB disability supplement, which adds extra support to your regular benefit.
4. Use CRA Tools
Visit the CRA website to use the benefit calculator to estimate your monthly payments and see what you’re eligible for.
Special Situations
Here’s how the CCB applies in less typical family arrangements:
Shared Custody
If parents share custody equally, each may receive 50% of the monthly CCB.
Adoptive Parents
Adoptive parents qualify for the CCB just like biological parents as long as they are the child’s primary caregivers.
Disputes and Appeals
If you think your payment is incorrect:
- Check your Notice of Assessment from CRA.
- Contact the CRA for a review or correction.
- Submit supporting documents if requested.
Using Your CCB Wisely
Wondering how to best use your monthly benefit? Consider:
- Saving for your child’s post-secondary education (RESP)
- Budgeting for school supplies, clothing, and activities
- Covering childcare or food costs
- Setting aside emergency funds
It’s also a smart idea to automate savings using a portion of your CCB—every little bit helps.
FAQs
How much CCB will I get per child in 2025?
Up to $6,997 for children under 6, $5,903 for ages 6–17.
What is the $445 Canada Family Benefit?
It’s a monthly payment tied to income and CCB eligibility.
When will CCB be paid in 2025?
Usually on the 20th of each month or the next business day.
Do I need to apply separately for CFB and CCB?
No, applying for CCB also covers the CFB eligibility.
How do I update my CCB information?
Use your CRA My Account to update family and income details.
