New Canada Child Benefit Payment Scheduled for March 20

Families across Canada can expect the next Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment on March 20, 2025. This tax-free monthly payment is part of the federal government’s initiative to support eligible families in raising children under the age of 18.

For the 2024-2025 benefit year, which runs from July 2024 to June 2025, the maximum annual CCB amounts have been increased by 4.7% to account for inflation. Families can receive:

• $7,787 per child under 6 years old ($648.91 monthly)
• $6,570 per child aged 6 to 17 ($547.50 monthly)

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the CCB, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Live with the child under 18
2. Be primarily responsible for the child’s care and upbringing
3. Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
4. Hold Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, protected person status, or have lived in Canada for the previous 18 months

How Benefit Amounts Are Determined

The CCB is income-tested, meaning the benefit amount is calculated based on a family’s adjusted net income from the previous year. Families with incomes below $36,502 receive the maximum benefit, while those with higher incomes see their payments gradually reduced.

Applying for the CCB

Families can apply for the CCB in several ways:

• Automatically through birth registration in most provinces and territories
• Online via the CRA My Account portal
• By mail using Form RC66

Newcomers to Canada may need to provide additional documentation to prove their residency status.

Provincial and Territorial Benefits

The March 20 payment may also include provincial and territorial benefits administered by the CRA, such as the Ontario Child Benefit or the BC Family Benefit.

Checking Payment Details

Families can verify their benefit amounts and payment dates through their CRA My Account or by using the CCB calculator on the CRA website. If a payment is not received by the expected date, recipients should wait 5 business days before contacting the CRA.

The Canada Child Benefit remains a vital resource for families, helping to reduce child poverty and alleviate the financial challenges of raising children in Canada.

Source

Importance of Filing Tax Returns for CCB Eligibility

To receive the Canada Child Benefit, families must file their income tax returns annually, even if they had no income during the year. This requirement applies to both partners in a couple, as the CRA uses the household’s combined income to assess eligibility and determine benefit amounts.

Understanding the Income Threshold and Benefit Reduction

The CCB is an income-tested benefit, meaning that the amount a family receives is based on their adjusted net income from the previous tax year. Families with an adjusted net income below $36,502 receive the maximum benefit amount. As income exceeds this threshold, the benefit is gradually reduced. This ensures that support is targeted to those who need it most while providing a fair distribution of resources.

Special Considerations for Newcomers

For individuals who are new to Canada, additional documentation may be required to establish eligibility for the CCB. This includes proof of residency status, such as landing documents or other official records, to confirm that the applicant has lived in Canada for the required period.

The Impact of Inflation Indexing on CCB Payments

The 4.7% increase in CCB payments for the 2024-2025 benefit year reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that the benefit keeps pace with the rising cost of living. This inflation indexing helps maintain the purchasing power of the benefit, ensuring that families can continue to meet the financial demands of raising children.

Why the CCB Matters for Canadian Families

The Canada Child Benefit plays a critical role in supporting families and reducing child poverty across the country. By providing a tax-free monthly payment, the CCB helps families cover the expenses associated with childcare, education, and other necessities. This financial support is particularly important for low- and middle-income families, who may face greater challenges in making ends meet.

Conclusion

The Canada Child Benefit remains a cornerstone of financial support for families across Canada, providing tax-free monthly payments to help alleviate the costs of raising children. With the next payment scheduled for March 20, 2025, and increased benefit amounts for the 2024-2025 benefit year, eligible families can expect enhanced support to meet the rising cost of living. By understanding the eligibility criteria, income thresholds, and application process, families can ensure they receive the maximum benefit available to them. Remember to file your taxes annually and utilize CRA resources to stay informed about your payments and eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for the Canada Child Benefit?

You can apply automatically through birth registration in most provinces, online via CRA My Account, or by mail using Form RC66.

When is the next CCB payment scheduled?

The next payment is scheduled for March 20, 2025.

What are the eligibility requirements for the CCB?

To be eligible, you must live with the child under 18, be primarily responsible for their care, be a Canadian resident for tax purposes, and hold Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, protected person status, or have lived in Canada for the previous 18 months.

How is the CCB benefit amount determined?

The benefit amount is based on your adjusted net income from the previous tax year. Families with incomes below $36,502 receive the maximum benefit, while higher incomes result in reduced payments.

What additional documents do newcomers need for CCB eligibility?

Newcomers may need to provide proof of residency status, such as landing documents or other official records, to confirm they have lived in Canada for the required period.

What if I don’t receive my CCB payment on the scheduled date?

If your payment is not received by the expected date, wait 5 business days before contacting the CRA for assistance.