Canadian parents eligible for child tax payments can expect their first payment of the year in a week.
The new benefit year began in July 2024, and the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) increased. This gave Canadians a small but much-needed tax boost to support their children. Another boost will come in six months.
If you qualify, look out for a deposit in your account on Monday, January 20.
How much child tax you’ll get
Since 2018, the government has indexed CCB amounts to better support parents as the cost of living changes.
“This indexation means that the maximum benefit amounts and income thresholds at which benefits begin to be reduced are increased annually to keep pace with the rising cost of living, giving parents more support each month to help them provide for their children,” an Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) spokesperson explained over email.
“Both the maximum benefits and the income thresholds are indexed annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).”
Child tax payments increased by 4.7 per cent, meaning the maximum benefit for children under six increased by $350, from $7,437 to $7,787. For children aged six to 17, it increased by $295, from $6,275 to $6,570.
Another increase is expected in July 2025, when the next benefit year begins. However, it will not be as large as the increases in 2024 (4.7 per cent) or 2023 (6.3 per cent).
According to the Canada Revenue Agency, a 2.7 per cent tax bump awaits parents.
The annual base benefit for children under six will increase from $7,787 to $7,997 ($666 monthly) and from $6,570 to $6,748 ($562 monthly) for children aged six to 17 until June 2026.
The annual child disability benefit (CDB) amount also increases from $3,322 to $3,411 starting July 1, 2025.
The amount is always tax-free.
B.C. families can also take advantage of the provincial family benefit, which includes a six-month bonus.
The maximum annual benefit, including bonus payment, parents may receive is $2,188 for their first child, $1,375 for their second child, and $1,125 for each additional child.
Take the criteria test to determine if your family is eligible for the updated CCB. If you’re eligible, here are the dates you can expect to receive the child tax payment in 2025.
