Raising children in today’s economy has become even more challenging during ever-rising inflation and living costs. To reduce this burden, the Canadian government gives the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) as a form of support to eligible families. This benefit helps with the costs related to raising children under 18.
The Canada Child Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help them with the cost of raising children. Its primary purpose is to lessen the financial pressures on low- to middle-income families by giving them direct financial support.
The amount families receive from the Child Disability Benefit can reach up to $7,000 per year for each eligible child.
Canada Child Benefit Eligibility Criteria
Here are the main requirements: The individual applying for the CCB and their spouse or common-law partner must file their taxes yearly, even if they have no income to report. Conditions that must be met to qualify for the benefit:
- The applicant must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- They must be the primary caregiver of a child under 18.
- The child must also live with the caregiver.
- You or your spouse or common-law partner must be:
- A Canadian citizen,
- A permanent resident,
- A protected person (as defined under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act),
- A temporary resident who has lived in Canada for at least 18 months and holds a valid permit in the 19th month (excluding permits that state “does not confer status” or “does not confer temporary resident status”),
- An individual registered under the Indian Act or entitled to be registered.
You are not eligible to receive the CCB for a foster child for any month the child receives the Children’s Special Allowances (CSA).
CCB Payment Details
The amount of CCB a family receives is based on the family’s net income reported on their tax returns, the number of children in the family, and the age of the children. The benefit is changed each year in July to reflect inflation and changes in the family’s situation based on their tax returns from the previous year.
The maximum annual CCB payment amounts were as follows:
- For a child under 6 years old: up to $6,997 per child.
- For a child aged 6 through 17: up to $5,903 per child.
It’s important to note that families with lower incomes receive higher payments, and the benefit gradually decreases as income increases.
Additional Supplement Benefit
The CCB may also include extra benefits for specific situations, such as the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) and supplements for families living in certain provinces or territories that give their child benefits.
Child Disability Benefit- The CDB is an additional payment for families caring for a child under 18 with a severe and prolonged physical or mental disability. Its eligibility is decided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). As of the 2022-2023 benefit year, the maximum annual CDB payment is up to $2,915 per eligible child.
Several provinces and territories have their child benefits. These supplements vary by region and aim to support families, considering the unique cost of living and needs in different parts of Canada. Examples include the Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB), the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB), and the Québec Family Allowance.
Canada Child Benefit Payment Dates
The CCB payments are made on the 20th of each month unless the 20th falls on a weekend or a public holiday. In such cases, payments are issued on the nearest working day before the 20th.
- May 17, 2024
- June 20, 2024
- July 19, 2024
- August 20, 2024
- September 20, 2024
- October 18, 2024
- November 20, 2024
- December 13, 2024
How to Apply for the CCB?
The CCB is automatically calculated based on your income tax return if you have filed your taxes. You do not need to apply separately.
If you are a new parent or guardian, you can apply for the CCB by completing the RC66 Canada Child Benefits Application form. You can find this form on the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website or request a copy by calling the CRA.
Set up direct deposit with the CRA to receive your CCB payments directly into your bank account.
