$7,787 Per Child Coming Your Way: If you’re a parent, guardian, or caregiver living in Canada, you may have heard whispers about a big financial boost for families in 2025. The buzz is all about the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and the opportunity to receive up to $7,787 per child this year. Yes, you read that right! That could mean thousands of dollars in tax-free monthly payments to help cover the essential costs of raising children.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the April 2025 CCB eligibility requirements, including how to qualify, how much money you could receive, and how to apply correctly to make sure you don’t miss out.
$7,787 Per Child Coming Your Way
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Annual Benefit | $7,787 per child (under 6), $6,570 per child (6-17 years) |
| Eligibility Age | Children under 18 years old |
| Key Requirement | Must be a Canadian resident and primary caregiver |
| Adjusted Family Net Income | Max benefit for income under $36,502 |
| Payment Dates (2025) | April 17, May 20, June 20, etc. |
| Official CCB Info | Available through the Canada Revenue Agency |
Whether you’re a new parent, newly arrived in Canada, or someone looking to understand this benefit better, this article delivers trusted, expert-backed insights in a tone that’s as friendly as it is informative.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment from the Government of Canada aimed at helping eligible families manage the high cost of raising children. Introduced in 2016, the CCB consolidated and replaced several older benefits, including the Canada Child Tax Benefit and the Universal Child Care Benefit.
Every July, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recalculates your payments based on your previous year’s tax return and inflation adjustments. The CCB provides more money to families with lower incomes while also supporting middle-income households.
How Much Is the CCB in 2025?
For the 2024–2025 benefit year, starting in July 2024:
- $7,787 per child under age 6
- $6,570 per child aged 6 to 17
These amounts are indexed to inflation, meaning they increase slightly each year. The government adjusts these figures to keep up with the rising cost of living.
This benefit can be a lifesaver for families, providing much-needed financial breathing room. Let’s explore who qualifies.
Who Is Eligible for the April 2025 CCB?
To receive the CCB, you must meet all the following criteria:
1. You Live With the Child
You must live with the child and be the primary person responsible for their daily care and well-being. This includes food, clothing, health care, and overall nurturing.
2. The Child Must Be Under 18
Only children under the age of 18 are eligible. If your child turns 18 during the benefit year, payments stop the month after their birthday.
3. You Are the Primary Caregiver
The CCB is only paid to the person who is primarily responsible for the child’s upbringing. In most cases, this is the mother, but it can also be the father or another guardian.
4. You Must Be a Canadian Resident
You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes and meet one of the following status requirements:
- Canadian citizen
- Permanent resident
- Protected person (e.g., refugee status)
- Temporary resident (must have lived in Canada for the previous 18 months with a valid permit in the 19th month)
- Status Indian as defined by the Indian Act
How Much Money Will You Receive?
The CCB is income-tested, meaning how much you get depends on your Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI). The lower your AFNI, the higher your benefit.
Here’s how it typically works:
Income and Benefit Examples
| Family Net Income (AFNI) | 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 |
For families with income above $36,502, the CCB amount is gradually reduced using a sliding scale formula. Even households with six-figure incomes may still receive some support.
When Will You Get Paid?
CCB payments are made monthly, typically around the 20th of each month. Here are some of the 2025 payment dates you should mark in your calendar:
- January 20, 2025
- February 20, 2025
- March 20, 2025
- April 17, 2025
- May 20, 2025
- June 20, 2025
- July 18, 2025
If you don’t receive your payment on time, wait at least 5 business days before contacting the CRA.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
Applying for the CCB is simpler than you might think. Choose one of the following three options:
1. Apply Online Using CRA My Account
This is the fastest and most convenient way. Sign in to your CRA My Account and follow the steps under “Apply for child benefits.”
2. Register at Birth
When registering your baby’s birth with your province or territory, you can often simultaneously apply for child benefits. Just check the box and submit your Social Insurance Number.
3. Apply by Mail (Form RC66)
Download the RC66 Application Form, fill it out, and mail it with supporting documents. This method takes longer but works well for newcomers to Canada.
Pro Tips to Maximize Your CCB Payments
Want to make the most of your benefits? Here are some expert tips:
- Always File Your Taxes — Even if you earned zero income, your tax return is essential to determine your eligibility.
- Update the CRA Promptly — Report changes in custody, marital status, income, or address.
- Use Direct Deposit — Get your payments faster by signing up for direct deposit through your CRA My Account.
- Track Payments — Use the CRA mobile app or log in online to check your benefit status.
- Apply Early — If you’re new to Canada or have a newborn, apply as soon as you’re eligible.
What About the Child Disability Benefit (CDB)?
If you care for a child with a prolonged physical or mental disability, you may also qualify for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) — an additional monthly tax-free payment.
To qualify:
- Your child must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
- The CDB can provide up to $3,173 extra per year.
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FAQs About $7,787 Per Child Coming Your Way
1. How do I check my CCB status?
Log in to CRA My Account or use the CRA mobile app.
2. What happens if my income changes?
Your CCB is based on the previous year’s income. A change in 2024 will affect your payments starting in July 2025.
3. Is CCB considered income?
Nope! It’s completely tax-free and doesn’t need to be reported as income.
4. Can both parents receive CCB?
Only the primary caregiver receives the full amount. In shared custody cases, each parent typically receives 50% of the benefit.
5. Do newcomers qualify for CCB?
Yes! As long as you’ve lived in Canada for 18 months as a temporary resident and have a valid permit, you can apply in the 19th month.
