If you’re a parent or guardian in Canada, there’s good news on the horizon: the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is set to provide up to $7,787 per child in 2025. That’s not just a headline grabber—it’s a real opportunity to ease the financial pressure of raising children. Whether your child is a newborn or a teenager, this guide breaks down who qualifies, how much you could get, and how to apply for it without missing a step.
Overview
The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help cover the cost of raising children under 18. It’s recalculated every July based on the previous year’s income and adjusted for inflation, which means the amounts go up slightly each year.
For 2025, families could receive:
- $7,787 per child under age 6
- $6,570 per child aged 6 to 17
These figures are based on families with lower annual net incomes (under $36,502). But even middle- and higher-income families may still receive partial benefits.
How it works
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) determines how much you get by looking at your Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI). The less you earn, the more you receive. Payments are usually issued around the 20th of each month.
Here’s a quick look at how the benefit might scale based on income:
| Family Net Income | Child Age | Estimated Annual Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| $30,000 | 3 years | $7,787 |
| $30,000 | 12 years | $6,570 |
| $65,000 | 5 years | ~$5,000 |
| $100,000 | 7 years | ~$2,000 |
| $130,000 | 15 years | ~$500 |
Eligibility
To qualify for the June 2025 CCB, you must meet these basic requirements:
- Live with the child and be the primary caregiver.
- The child is under 18 years old.
- You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- You (or your spouse) must be a:
- Canadian citizen
- Permanent resident
- Protected person
- Temporary resident (18+ months with valid permit)
- Status Indian
The primary caregiver is usually the parent who is most responsible for day-to-day care. In most cases, that’s the mother, but it can be any legal guardian.
Payments
Here are key CCB payment dates for 2025 to help you plan:
- January 20, 2025
- February 20, 2025
- March 20, 2025
- May 20, 2025
- June 17, 2025
- June 20, 2025
- July 18, 2025
Payments are made monthly via direct deposit or mailed cheque. If you don’t get your money on time, wait five business days before calling the CRA.
Application
There are three ways to apply for the CCB:
1. Online via CRA My Account
Log in and click “Apply for child benefits.” This is the fastest and easiest method.
2. Through Birth Registration
When registering a birth, you can opt in to CCB. Just check the right box and enter your Social Insurance Number.
3. Paper Form RC66
Newcomers to Canada or those without online access can use the RC66 form. Print, fill, and mail it with supporting documents.
Tips
Want to make sure you don’t miss a dollar? Follow these smart steps:
- File taxes every year — even if you earn no income.
- Report life changes quickly — new baby, custody changes, marital status.
- Use direct deposit — for faster and safer payments.
- Check your account — log into CRA or use the app to track payments.
- Apply ASAP — the sooner you apply, the sooner you’ll get paid.
Extra Help
If your child has a long-term disability, you may qualify for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB). It adds up to $3,173 extra per year, on top of your regular CCB. To be eligible, your child must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
FAQs
How much is CCB in 2025?
Up to $7,787 for kids under 6; $6,570 for kids 6-17.
Who is eligible for the June 2025 CCB?
Canadian residents with children under 18 and low to mid incomes.
When are CCB payments made?
Around the 20th of each month, including June 17 and 20.
How do I apply for the CCB?
Online via CRA, through birth registration, or by mail using Form RC66.
What is the Child Disability Benefit?
An extra tax-free payment of up to $3,173 for children with disabilities.
