The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to assist eligible families in covering the costs of raising children under 18 years of age.
The next CCB payment is scheduled for May 20, 2025, aligning with the CRA’s regular disbursement schedule.
Key Details of the May 2025 CCB Payment
For the benefit period spanning July 2024 to June 2025, the CCB amounts are determined based on the 2023 adjusted family net income (AFNI). Families with an AFNI of $36,502 or less are eligible for the maximum benefit amounts:
- $648.91 per month for each child under 6 years of age
- $547.50 per month for each child aged 6 to 17 years
These amounts are subject to reduction as the AFNI increases beyond the $36,502 threshold.
CCB Payment Schedule for 2025
The CRA issues CCB payments on the following dates in 2025:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 20 |
| February | February 20 |
| March | March 20 |
| April | April 17 |
| May | May 20 |
| June | June 20 |
| July | July 18 |
| August | August 20 |
| September | September 19 |
| October | October 20 |
| November | November 20 |
| December | December 12 |
Note: If you do not receive your payment on the scheduled date, please wait five business days before contacting the CRA.
Eligibility Criteria for the CCB
To qualify for the CCB, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Residency: Must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Child’s Age: Must live with a child under 18 years of age
- Primary Responsibility: Must be primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child
- Tax Filing: Both the applicant and their spouse or common-law partner (if applicable) must file annual tax returns, even if there is no income to report
Impact of Income on CCB Amounts
The CCB is designed to provide greater assistance to families with lower incomes. As the adjusted family net income (AFNI) increases above $36,502, the benefit amount is gradually reduced. The reduction rates vary based on the number of eligible children:
- One child:
- 7% of income over $36,502 up to $79,087
- For income over $79,087: $2,981 plus 3.2% of income over $79,087
- Two children:
- 13.5% of income over $36,502 up to $79,087
- For income over $79,087: $5,749 plus 5.7% of income over $79,087
- Three children:
- 19% of income over $36,502 up to $79,087
- For income over $79,087: $8,091 plus 8% of income over $79,087
- Four or more children:
- 23% of income over $36,502 up to $79,087
- For income over $79,087: $9,795 plus 9.5% of income over $79,087
Example: A family with two children under 6 and an AFNI of $60,000 would have their benefit reduced by 13.5% of the amount over $36,502, resulting in a total annual benefit of approximately $12,401.77, or $1,033.48 per month.
Additional Benefits: Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
Families with children eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) may also receive the Child Disability Benefit (CDB).
For the July 2024 to June 2025 period, the maximum annual CDB is $3,322 per eligible child, equating to $276.83 per month. This amount is reduced when the AFNI exceeds $79,087.
Provincial and Territorial Supplements
In addition to the federal CCB, several provinces and territories offer supplementary benefits:
- Ontario Child Benefit: Up to $1,607 annually per child
- British Columbia Family Benefit: Up to $2,188 annually for the first child, with additional amounts for subsequent children
- Alberta Child and Family Benefit: Maximum base component of $3,674 and working component up to $1,982, depending on the number of children
Note: These provincial benefits are automatically assessed when you apply for the CCB; no separate application is required.
How to Apply for the CCB
Eligible individuals can apply for the CCB through the following methods:
- At Birth: Register the birth of your child and consent to share information with the CRA
- Online: Log into your CRA My Account and select “Apply for child benefits”
- By Mail: Complete and send Form RC66 to your local tax centre
Ensure that both you and your spouse or common-law partner have filed your tax returns to avoid delays in processing.
The May 20, 2025, Canada Child Benefit payment offers essential financial support to eligible families.
By staying informed, filing taxes on time, and meeting all criteria, parents can ensure they receive the maximum benefit to support their children’s well-being.
FAQs
When will I receive the May 2025 CCB payment?
The CRA will issue the May 2025 CCB payment on May 20, 2025. If you are enrolled in direct deposit, the funds should appear in your account on that date. If you receive payments by cheque, allow additional time for mail delivery.
How is the CCB amount determined?
The CCB amount is calculated based on your adjusted family net income (AFNI) from the previous tax year, the number and ages of your children, and eligibility for the Disability Tax Credit. The benefit is designed to provide more support to families with lower incomes.
Do I need to reapply for the CCB each year?
No, once you are enrolled in the CCB program, you do not need to reapply annually. However, you and your spouse or common-law partner must file your tax returns each year to continue receiving payments.