Canadian parents, get ready for some good news! The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is getting a raise in July 2025, helping families keep up with rising costs for things like food, clothes, and childcare. This tax-free monthly payment supports families with kids under 18, and the increase will put more money in your pocket. With inflation making life pricier, this boost is a welcome relief. Here’s everything you need to know about the new amounts, who qualifies, and how to make sure you get your payments, all in simple Canadian English.
When Does the Increase Start?
The CCB payments will go up starting July 19, 2025, kicking off the new benefit year (July 2025 to June 2026). If you’re signed up for direct deposit, expect the money in your account on that date. Cheques might take a few extra days, so switching to direct deposit is a smart move for faster payments. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will send out personalized letters in late June 2025 with your exact payment amounts. Check your CRA My Account to stay updated and avoid any delays.
How Much More Will You Get?
The CCB is going up by 2.7% to match inflation, based on 2024’s Consumer Price Index (CPI). For kids under 6, the maximum payment will be $7,997 per year (about $666.42 per month), up from $7,787. For kids aged 6 to 17, it’s $6,748 per year (about $562.33 per month), up from $6,570. That’s an extra $210 per year for younger kids and $178 for older ones. Families with incomes under $37,487 get the full amount, but payments shrink as income rises. If your child qualifies for the Disability Tax Credit, you could also get up to $3,411 per year for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB).
| Child’s Age | Max Annual Amount (2025-2026) | Max Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 | $7,997 | $666.42 |
| 6 to 17 | $6,748 | $562.33 |
| Disability (CDB) | $3,411 | $284.25 |
Who Can Get the CCB?
To get the CCB, you must live in Canada, be the main caregiver for a child under 18, and be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or temporary resident with 18 months of residency (with a valid permit). You and your spouse or partner need to file your 2024 tax return by May 1, 2025, even if you had no income, so the CRA can calculate your payments. If you share custody, each parent gets 50% of what they’d receive with full custody, based on their own income. Newcomers, like refugees, may qualify too, but might need to show proof of residency.
How to Make Sure You Get Paid
File your 2024 taxes on time to avoid payment delays or interruptions. Use the CRA’s online calculator to estimate your benefits based on your income and number of kids. Update your banking and address details in CRA My Account to ensure smooth deposits. If you’re not enrolled, apply through CRA My Account or by mailing Form RC66. For temporary residents, include proof of your permit and residency. No need to reapply if you’re already getting CCB—the increase happens automatically if you’re eligible.
Why This Matters for Families
The July 2025 CCB increase, though smaller than last year’s 4.7%, is a big help as costs for essentials keep climbing. This boost, paired with programs like the BC Family Benefit or Alberta Child and Family Benefit, shows the government’s focus on supporting kids and parents. By filing taxes early, checking your CRA account, and knowing your eligibility, you can make the most of this extra cash. It’s a simple way to ease the budget strain and give your kids a great start.