Canada’s $445 Family Benefit Set for 2025 – Check Payment Dates and How to Apply

Starting in June 2025, Canadian families will receive a new monthly benefit aimed at easing the financial burden of raising children. Known as the Canada Family Benefit (CFB), this $445 monthly payment is designed to support families with children under the age of 18. It’s part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce child poverty, help with rising living costs, and support low- to middle-income households.

If you’re wondering how this new benefit works, who qualifies, and how to claim it, this article breaks it all down for you—from payment dates to application steps and everything in between.

Overview

The CFB is an income-based benefit paid monthly to eligible Canadian families. Here’s a quick summary:

Canada Family Benefit

The CFB is a monthly payment from the federal government to help cover the everyday costs of raising children. It supplements existing child benefit programs and targets families based on their income, ensuring those with greater financial need receive more support.

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It’s meant to help with:

• Groceries and meals
• School supplies and fees
• Childcare costs
• Clothing and housing
• Extracurricular activities

Why the CFB Matters

Raising a child in Canada is expensive—especially in cities like Toronto or Vancouver. The CFB offers extra support during a time when inflation, housing prices, and grocery costs are higher than ever. It’s a practical way for the government to invest in families and help children thrive.

Who Qualifies?

You must be a Canadian resident, meaning you live in Canada for at least 183 days a year. Both parents (or guardians) and the child must reside in Canada to qualify.

Children Under 18

You must have at least one dependent child under the age of 18 living with you.

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Income Limits

The benefit is income-tested:

• Families earning $35,000 or less will qualify for the full $445 per month.
• As income increases beyond this, the benefit amount decreases.
• Families earning over the upper income threshold may receive a reduced amount or none at all.

Tax Filing

You must file an annual income tax return. The CRA uses your tax return to assess your income and determine benefit eligibility.

Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

Enrollment in the Canada Child Benefit is required. If you already receive the CCB, you’ll automatically be considered for the CFB—no separate application needed.

Payment Schedule

CFB payments will begin in June 2025 and continue monthly. Here are the key dates:

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Payments are made via direct deposit or cheque, depending on your CRA account settings. Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure method.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to ensure you receive your Canada Family Benefit without delays:

Step 1

Even if you have no income, you must file a T1 Income Tax and Benefit Return every year. This tells the CRA your income and family size.

Step 2

If you’re not already receiving the CCB, apply through your CRA My Account or fill out the RC66 form. This is your gateway to the CFB.

Step 3

If your marital status, number of children, or address has changed, update the CRA immediately to ensure accurate payments.

Step 4

Use CRA’s online portal to register your banking information for quicker payments.

Step 5

Once you’re enrolled and eligible, your monthly CFB payments will begin. Keep track of your statements and verify deposit amounts.

Comparison to Other Benefits

The CFB is part of a family-focused benefits strategy. Here’s how it compares:

Together, the CFB and CCB provide stronger financial assistance to families than previous programs like the Universal Child Care Benefit.

Extra Tips

• Always file your taxes by April 30 each year to avoid benefit delays.
• Use the CRA’s benefit calculator to estimate how much you’ll receive.
• If you’re separated or sharing custody, you may still qualify for partial payments.
• Set reminders for CRA updates so your info stays current.

FAQs