Starting August 2025, millions of Canadian families will notice larger monthly Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is boosting payment amounts to match inflation, ensuring households receive more support during a period of rising costs.
With expenses like groceries, rent, and childcare continuing to climb, this increase offers much-needed relief for parents.
Whether you have been receiving the CCB for years or plan to apply for the first time, this guide explains the new payment rates, eligibility rules, updates for 2025, and steps to secure your full benefit.
What’s Changing in August 2025
For the 2025–2026 benefit year, the federal government has raised CCB amounts to help families maintain purchasing power.
The updated rates take effect with the August 2025 payment, which is based on details from your 2024 income tax return.
The CCB continues to be a tax-free monthly benefit that assists parents with children under 18, aiming to reduce financial strain and improve child well-being.
2025–2026 Canada Child Benefit Payment Rates
From August 2025, eligible households will receive the following maximum monthly and annual payments:
| Child Age Group | Max Monthly Payment (Per Child) | Max Annual Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 Years | $663.50 | $7,962.00 |
| 6 to 17 Years | $560.75 | $6,729.00 |
- These maximum amounts apply to families with an adjusted net income of $34,863 or less.
- Families earning above this threshold will see payments gradually reduced under a tiered formula.
- Many middle- and higher-income families may still receive partial benefits.
Receiving Your Payment
There are two main ways to get your CCB funds:
- Direct Deposit – Arrives in your bank account on the payment date.
- Mailed Cheque – May take 3–5 business days depending on Canada Post delivery.
Tip: To prevent delays, keep your bank account details updated in your CRA My Account and ensure your 2024 tax return is filed on time.
Key CCB Updates for 2025
The CRA has introduced several important changes for the 2025–2026 benefit year:
- Simplified Process for Newcomers
- The application procedure for new Canadians has been streamlined, cutting down on paperwork and enabling quicker access to benefits.
- Expanded Retroactive Claims
- Families can now claim missed payments going back three years, ensuring eligible households don’t miss out on past entitlements.
- Updated Income Thresholds
- Income brackets have been adjusted to reflect inflation and wage growth, enabling more middle-income families to qualify and sometimes receive higher payments than before.
How to Secure the Full CCB Amount
To make sure you receive the maximum eligible amount in August 2025, follow these steps:
- File your 2024 tax return early.
- Update your CRA My Account with any changes to your family situation (e.g., new child, marital status change, address update).
- Report life changes promptly to avoid underpayment or delays.
- Sign up for direct deposit for faster payment delivery.
Canada Child Benefit Eligibility
You may qualify for the 2025–2026 CCB if you meet all the following:
- You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- You live with a child under 18 years of age.
- You are primarily responsible for the child’s care and upbringing.
- You have filed your 2024 income tax return (your spouse or partner must also file if applicable).
Important: Even if you have no taxable income, you must file a tax return to receive the benefit.
Why the 2025 Increase Matters
The August 2025 CCB increase is arriving at a crucial time for families struggling with higher living costs.
By boosting monthly payments and expanding eligibility, the CRA is ensuring that more households have the financial resources to raise healthy, secure children in an unpredictable economy.
With expanded retroactive claims and a simplified application process for newcomers, the updated program is more inclusive than ever before.
The Canada Child Benefit has been a cornerstone of family financial support in Canada, and the August 2025 increase ensures it continues to meet the needs of modern households.
By adjusting rates to match inflation, raising income thresholds, and making the process more accessible, the CRA is reinforcing its commitment to supporting parents.
Families should act now—file taxes, update account details, and ensure eligibility—to make the most of this valuable benefit.
In an era of rising costs, every dollar counts, and the updated CCB is designed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Canadian children and their parents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will the 2025 Canada Child Benefit be calculated?
The CRA determines payment amounts based on your 2024 income, number of children, and their ages. For incomes over $34,863, a tiered reduction formula applies.
Can I apply for the CCB if I missed previous years?
Yes. You can request retroactive payments for up to three years if you were eligible but didn’t apply at the time.
Is the Canada Child Benefit taxable?
No. The CCB is a tax-free benefit, meaning it does not need to be reported as income on your tax return.