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: What Is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment provided by the Canadian government to help families cover the cost of raising children under 18. This benefit is recalculated every July, based on your previous year’s income, and is adjusted for inflation—meaning families generally receive a little more each year.
Updated Benefit Amounts for 2025
In 2025, eligible families can receive:
- Up to $7,787 per child under the age of 6
- Up to $6,570 per child aged 6 to 17
These maximum amounts are available to families with net incomes under $36,502. However, middle- and higher-income families may still receive reduced or partial benefits depending on their income level.
How the CCB Is Calculated [Adjusted Family Net Income]
The amount you receive from the CCB depends on your Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI). The lower your AFNI, the higher your benefit. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) calculates this annually and adjusts the benefit accordingly.
Here’s a quick look at estimated annual benefits based on income and child age:
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 |
Who Is Eligible for the CCB in June 2025?
To be eligible for the CCB, you must meet four basic criteria:
- Live with the child and be their primary caregiver.
- The child must be under 18 years of age.
- You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- You (or your spouse/partner) must be one of the following:
- Canadian citizen
- Permanent resident
- Protected person
- Temporary resident (must have lived in Canada for 18 months or more with a valid permit)
- Status Indian
Typically, the primary caregiver is the parent most involved in the child’s daily care. This is often the mother, but it can be any legal guardian or parent.
CCB Payment Schedule for 2025
To help families plan their budgets, here are the official CCB payment dates for 2025:
- January 20, 2025
- February 20, 2025
- March 20, 2025
- May 20, 2025
- June 17, 2025
- June 20, 2025
- July 18, 2025
Payments are issued monthly, either through direct deposit or mailed cheque. If your payment doesn’t arrive on time, wait five business days before contacting the CRA.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
There are three ways to apply for the CCB:
1. Apply Online via CRA My Account
Log in to your CRA account and click “Apply for child benefits.” This is the fastest and most convenient method.
2. Register at Birth
When you register a child’s birth, you can opt in for the CCB directly by checking the appropriate box and entering your Social Insurance Number (SIN).
3. Use Paper Form RC66
If you are new to Canada or don’t have online access, you can use the RC66 paper form. Fill it out and mail it along with supporting documents to the CRA.
Key Tips to Maximize Your Benefit
To ensure you receive every dollar you’re entitled to, follow these best practices:
- File your taxes annually, even if you earn no income.
- Report life changes (new child, custody updates, marriage/divorce) right away.
- Use direct deposit for quicker and more secure payments.
- Monitor your CRA account or app to track payment status.
- Apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on benefits.
Extra Support: Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
If your child has a long-term disability, you may be eligible for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB)—an additional tax-free payment of up to $3,173 per year. This is on top of the regular CCB.
To qualify, your child must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), so make sure you complete the application and receive confirmation from the CRA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How much is the Canada Child Benefit in 2025?
Eligible families can receive up to $7,787 per child under age 6 and up to $6,570 per child aged 6 to 17.
Q2. Who qualifies for the June 2025 CCB?
Canadian residents who are primary caregivers of children under 18 and who meet the income and residency requirements.
Q2. When are the CCB payments made?
Payments are made monthly, usually around the 20th of each month. June has two dates: June 17 and June 20, 2025.
Q3. How can I apply for the CCB?
You can apply online through CRA, during birth registration, or by mailing Form RC66 if you don’t have online access.
Q4. What is the Child Disability Benefit (CDB)?
It’s an extra annual benefit of up to $3,173 for families with children who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit.