$648.91 Canada Child Benefit 2024: The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) has been a lifeline for millions of Canadian families, providing crucial financial support to parents raising children under the age of 18. For 2024, families can expect up to $648.91 per month per eligible child under six, making it a valuable resource in managing the rising costs of childcare and daily expenses. But what exactly is this benefit, who qualifies, and how can you access it? Let’s break it down in detail.

$648.91 Canada Child Benefit 2024
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Maximum Payment | $648.91/month per child under 6; $547.50/month per child aged 6-17 |
Eligibility | Canadian resident, primary caregiver, annual tax filing required |
Payment Dates | 20th of every month (next payment: December 13, 2024) |
Income Threshold | Full benefit available for families earning less than $36,502 annually |
Application Methods | Online via CRA, birth registration, or by mail using Form RC66 |
Additional Benefits | Up to $3,322 annually for children eligible for the disability tax credit |
Official Resource | Canada Revenue Agency – CCB |
The $648.91 Canada Child Benefit for 2024 is a welcome relief for Canadian families navigating the challenges of raising children in today’s economic climate. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and payment schedule, you can maximize this benefit and ensure your family’s financial well-being.
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help families with the cost of raising children. It’s designed to reduce financial strain and ensure children have access to necessary resources such as food, clothing, and education.
Introduced in 2016, the CCB replaced previous programs like the Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB) and Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB). The amount you receive depends on several factors, including:
- Family net income: Higher-income families receive lower payments.
- Number of children: Payments increase with the number of eligible children.
- Children’s ages: Children under six receive higher payments.
The 2024 CCB maximum amounts reflect inflation-adjusted increases, making it even more beneficial during challenging economic times.
Who is Eligible for the $648.91 Canada Child Benefit in 2024?
To qualify for the CCB, families must meet these requirements:
Residency Requirements
You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes. This means you live in Canada and have significant social and economic ties within the country.
Primary Caregiver
You’re considered the primary caregiver if you:
- Live with the child
- Provide daily care and supervision
- Are responsible for the child’s well-being
Filing Taxes
Both you and your spouse or common-law partner (if applicable) must file annual income tax returns. The CRA uses your adjusted family net income (AFNI) from the previous year to calculate your benefit.
Immigration Status
At least one parent must meet one of the following:
- Be a Canadian citizen
- Be a permanent resident
- Have protected person status
- Be a temporary resident with valid permits for at least 18 months
How Much Can You Receive?
The 2024 maximum CCB payments are as follows:
- $648.91 per month for children under 6 years old
- $547.50 per month for children aged 6-17 years old
These amounts decrease as your family’s net income increases beyond $36,502. For families earning between $36,502 and $98,855, benefits are gradually reduced. Use the CRA’s Child and Family Benefits Calculator to estimate your payments accurately.
Families with eligible children who qualify for the disability tax credit may receive an additional $276.83 per month under the Child Disability Benefit (CDB).
Example Scenario
Consider a family with two children under six and an annual net income of $30,000. They could receive the full benefit of $648.91 per month for each child, totaling $1,297.82 monthly. This assistance can significantly offset living costs.
When Will You Receive Payments?
Monthly Payment Dates
The CRA issues CCB payments on the 20th of each month, except in December, when payments are made earlier due to the holidays. Here are the upcoming payment dates:
- December 13, 2024
- January 20, 2025
- February 20, 2025
You can check your payment schedule and amounts through your CRA My Account.
How to Apply for $648.91 Canada Child Benefit 2024
If you’re not already receiving the CCB, applying is straightforward. Here are the steps:
1. At Birth Registration
When registering your child’s birth, you can consent to share your information with the CRA to automatically apply for the CCB.
2. Online via CRA My Account
Sign into your CRA My Account and follow these steps:
- Navigate to the “Apply for child benefits” section.
- Complete the application form with your personal details.
- Submit required documentation if asked.
3. By Mail
Complete Form RC66, Canada Child Benefits Application, and mail it to your local CRA office. Include any supporting documents requested.
Common Application Errors to Avoid
- Forgetting to file your taxes or update income changes.
- Failing to include necessary documentation, such as proof of residency.
- Not registering for a CRA My Account for efficient tracking.
For detailed instructions, visit the CRA website.
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FAQs About the $648.91 Canada Child Benefit in 2024
1. Is the CCB taxable?
No, the CCB is a tax-free benefit and doesn’t need to be reported as income.
2. What happens if my income changes?
If your family’s income significantly increases or decreases, it’s essential to notify the CRA immediately to avoid overpayments or missed benefits.
3. Can separated or divorced parents both receive the CCB?
No. Only the primary caregiver—the parent primarily responsible for the child’s care—can receive the benefit. In cases of shared custody, the CCB may be split between parents.
4. What if my child is turning 18?
You’ll receive the last CCB payment for the month of your child’s 18th birthday.
5. Does moving to another province affect my benefit?
No, the CCB is a federal benefit and remains unaffected by inter-provincial moves. However, you must update your address with the CRA.
Why the Canada Child Benefit Matters
The Canada Child Benefit plays a vital role in reducing child poverty and providing financial stability to families. According to Statistics Canada, the CCB has lifted hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty since its inception. In 2024, with inflation and living costs on the rise, the increased CCB payments can make a meaningful difference for families across the country.
The added focus on inflation adjustments highlights the government’s commitment to adapting the program to meet the evolving needs of Canadian families. For instance, the 2024 increase ensures families receive adequate support to offset rising costs of childcare, groceries, and other essentials.