Good news for Canadian families: starting August 2025, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is going up. With the cost of groceries, rent, and childcare on the rise, the government is stepping in with higher monthly payments to help ease the pressure.
Whether you’re a long-time recipient or thinking about applying, this update gives families a little more breathing room when they need it most. Here’s what’s changing and how it affects your next payment.
Update
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is increasing the CCB amounts for the 2025–2026 benefit year, starting with the August 2025 payment. This yearly adjustment is tied to inflation, ensuring the support you receive keeps pace with real-world costs.
You don’t need to apply again—if you’re already receiving the benefit and have filed your 2024 taxes, the new rates will apply automatically.
Amounts
Here’s how the updated Canada Child Benefit breaks down for August 2025 onward:
| Child Age Group | Max Monthly Payment | Max Annual Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 Years | $663.50 | $7,962.00 |
| Ages 6 to 17 Years | $560.75 | $6,729.00 |
These amounts apply to families with an adjusted net income under $34,863. If your income is higher, the benefit amount will gradually decrease based on a tiered reduction rate.
Payment Date
The first updated payment with the new amount will be sent out on:
August 20, 2025
Here’s how you’ll get it:
- Direct Deposit: Arrives the same day, if you’ve enrolled
- Mailed Cheque: May take 3–5 business days to reach you
To avoid delays, check that your direct deposit info is current in your CRA My Account.
Changes
There are some helpful updates in the CCB system for 2025:
1. Easier Access for Newcomers
New Canadians now face less paperwork when applying for CCB. If you’ve recently arrived in Canada with children, the process is quicker and more accessible than ever.
2. Retroactive Claims Extended
Missed out on past payments? You can now claim up to three years of retroactive CCB, even if your previous income was too low to qualify before.
3. Adjusted Income Thresholds
Income brackets have been updated to reflect rising wages and inflation. That means more middle-income families may now qualify for partial benefits or slightly higher monthly payments than in previous years.
Checklist
Want to be sure you’re getting the full CCB amount in August 2025? Here’s what to do:
- File your 2024 tax return as early as possible
- Update your CRA My Account with changes in income, address, or family status
- Sign up for direct deposit to avoid mailing delays
- Report life changes like a new child or separation immediately
Eligibility
To receive the CCB in 2025–2026, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Live with a child under 18 years old
- Be primarily responsible for their care
- File your 2024 tax return, even if you earned no income
It’s important to note that filing taxes is mandatory to receive CCB—even if you’re unemployed or receiving other assistance.
FAQs
When is the new CCB payment coming?
August 20, 2025, with increased monthly amounts.
How much is the max for kids under 6?
$663.50 per month, or $7,962 per year.
Do I need to reapply for the new rate?
No, the update is automatic if you filed your taxes.
Can newcomers apply easily now?
Yes, the process has been simplified for new residents.
What if I missed previous payments?
You can now request retroactive CCB for up to 3 years.
