In 2025, families in select provinces across Canada will receive an extra $300 in Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments per child.
This initiative aims to provide additional financial support to families coping with rising living expenses.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify and how to claim these enhanced benefits, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment designed to help families with children under 18. The amount is determined by family income, number of children, and their ages.
For 2025, eligible provinces will offer an extra $300 per child to further assist families.
These payments are part of the government’s efforts to reduce financial burdens associated with raising children, including expenses like childcare, school supplies, and housing.
Key Features of CCB
- Tax-Free: Payments are not taxable income.
- Income-Based: Lower-income families receive higher amounts.
- Supplementary Benefits: Additional payments are available for children with disabilities.
Provinces Offering the Extra $300
Several provinces are introducing additional enhancements to the CCB in 2025:
1. British Columbia
- Amount: Up to $300 extra per child.
- Details: Offered through the BC Family Benefit program, which provides additional financial relief to low-income families.
2. Ontario
- Amount: Up to $300 per child under the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB).
- Focus: Targeting low- and middle-income families, including single-parent households.
3. Nova Scotia
- Amount: Extra $300 per child, included in the provincial top-up program.
- Details: Aims to address rising living costs and provide better support to families with young children.
Other provinces may introduce their own enhancements to CCB. Check the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website for updates.
Eligibility for the Extra $300
To qualify for the additional payment, families must meet the following criteria:
Residency
- Must be a resident of Canada and live in an eligible province.
Child Age Limit
- Payments are available for children under 18 years old.
Income Threshold
- Families with lower adjusted net incomes will receive the full benefit, while higher-income families may qualify for partial payments.
Tax Filing Compliance
- Both parents must file annual income tax returns to automatically receive CCB payments.
Additional Support
- Families with children who have disabilities may qualify for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB), providing extra financial assistance.
How to Receive the Extra Payment
Automatic Process
You don’t need to apply separately for the extra $300. Follow these steps to ensure your payments are processed:
- File Your Taxes Annually
- CCB payments, including the extra $300, are calculated based on tax returns.
- Update Your Information
- Inform the CRA of changes to your marital status, address, or the number of children in your household.
- Check MyCRA Account
- Use the MyCRA portal to monitor your benefit payments and confirm your eligibility.
If you’re unsure of your eligibility, use the CRA Child and Family Benefits Calculator to estimate your payments.
When Will Payments Start?
The extra $300 in CCB payments will begin in July 2025 and follow the regular monthly CCB payment schedule. Payments are typically deposited on the 20th of each month.
How Much Will You Receive?
The amount of CCB payments, including the extra $300, depends on:
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Number of Children | Each child under 18 qualifies for the extra payment. |
| Family Income | Lower-income families receive higher payments. |
| Province of Residence | Benefit amounts vary by province. |
Benefits of the Extra CCB Payment
The additional $300 per child can help families cover essential expenses, such as:
- Childcare Costs: Supporting daycare or after-school programs.
- School Supplies: Purchasing books, stationery, and uniforms.
- Extracurricular Activities: Covering fees for sports, arts, or music lessons.
- Health and Wellness: Paying for medical needs or healthy groceries.
- Educational Savings: Setting aside money for a child’s post-secondary education.
This boost offers much-needed relief as families face increasing living costs.
Tips to Maximize Your CCB Benefits
- Stay Current with Tax Filings
Ensure both parents file taxes on time each year to avoid delays or interruptions in payments. - Monitor CRA Updates
Check the CRA website or MyCRA portal for announcements about payment increases or eligibility changes. - Supplement with Other Benefits
Explore additional financial aid programs in your province, such as housing benefits or energy rebates. - Use CCB Wisely
Allocate payments for essential expenses to make the most of this financial support.
With proper planning and awareness, you can maximize the benefits of the Canada Child Benefit and ensure a more stable financial future for your family.
