hat’s why the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) exists. It’s the government’s way of helping families handle the growing costs of raising kids. And for 2025, the CCB has been updated with new income thresholds and payment amounts that could make a real difference in your monthly budget.
What Exactly Is the Canada Child Benefit?
The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment given to parents or caregivers of children under 18. It’s designed to offset the costs of raising kids — and unlike a tax deduction, it’s direct cash in your pocket.
Here’s the thing: the amount you receive depends on your family’s income, how many children you have, and their ages. Lower- and middle-income families receive the most support, but even higher earners may qualify for smaller payments.
And there’s more — applying for the CCB also registers your family for other credits such as the GST/HST rebate, the Canada Carbon Rebate, and certain provincial child benefits.
Who’s Eligible for the 2025 CCB?
You qualify for the Canada Child Benefit if you:
- Live with a child under 18
- Are primarily responsible for their care
- Are a resident of Canada for tax purposes
You or your spouse must also be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, temporary resident (18+ months), or registered under the Indian Act.
One important rule: both parents need to file income tax returns every year, even if you have no income, so the CRA can calculate your benefit correctly.
How Much Can You Get in 2025?
For the July 2025–June 2026 payment period:
- Children under 6: up to $7,997 per year (around $666/month)
- Children aged 6–17: up to $6,748 per year (around $562/month)
Your actual payment depends on your adjusted family net income (AFNI) — the lower your household income, the closer you’ll be to the maximum amount.
When and How You’ll Get Paid
CCB payments arrive monthly, usually between the 18th and 20th of each month. You can check exact dates on the CRA website.
Applying is simple:
- Online: Through your CRA My Account
- At birth registration: When you register your child’s birth with your province or territory
- By mail: Using Form RC66 (and RC66SCH for new Canadians)
Once you apply, expect your first payment within 8 weeks.
Why You Should Apply — Even If You Think You Don’t Qualify
Many parents skip applying because they assume their income is too high. But here’s the truth — the CCB’s income limits are more generous than most expect. Even partial payments can add up to thousands each year.
Think about it this way: if you’re raising a child in Canada, you’ve already earned this help. The CCB simply makes sure you’re not doing it alone.
$666 CCB Payment Dates 2025
The benefit shall be given to the beneficiaries on the 20th date of the month. The benefit for the month of November 2025 is to be credited in the accounts on 20th November 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Canada Child Benefit taxable?
No. The CCB is completely tax-free — you don’t have to report it as income on your tax return.
2. When will I receive my first CCB payment?
Typically within 8 weeks after applying, though exact timing depends on how you apply and your tax return status.
3. Can separated or shared-custody parents both receive CCB?
If you share custody equally, the CRA splits the payment 50-50 between both parents. Always update your status in your CRA account.
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