In April 2025, eligible Canadian families will continue receiving crucial financial support through the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). This monthly tax-free payment helps parents offset the rising costs of raising children under 18. If you’re a parent or guardian, understanding the CCB eligibility, payment dates, and application process can help you secure up to $7,787 per child under 6 annually.
This guide covers the updated benefit amounts, who qualifies, how to apply, and tips to avoid payment delays.
Canada Child Benefit Amount for April 2025
| Child’s Age | Maximum Annual Amount | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 years | $7,787 per child | $648.91/month |
| Age 6 to 17 years | $6,570 per child | $547.50/month |
Families with a net income of $36,502 or less will receive the full benefit. The payment amount decreases gradually as income rises.
Eligibility Criteria for Canada Child Benefit
To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit in April 2025, you must:
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Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
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Live with and be primarily responsible for the child
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Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or temporary resident with at least 18 months of valid status
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File an annual tax return (both parents or guardians must file)
Even if you had zero income, filing your return ensures uninterrupted payments.
April 2025 CCB Payment Date
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Next CCB Payment: April 17, 2025
Other 2025 CCB dates include:
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May 20
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June 20
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July 18
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August 20
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September 19
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October 20
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November 20
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December 12
Payments are usually deposited via direct deposit or sent as a cheque by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
How to Apply for Canada Child Benefit
There are three ways to apply:
1. Online through CRA My Account
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Log in to your CRA account
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Select “Apply for Child Benefits”
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Complete the application form
2. By Mail
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Fill out Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefits Application)
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Send it to your regional tax centre
3. Through Birth Registration
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Select the CCB application option when registering your child’s birth in your province
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This method auto-enrolls you for the CCB
Real-Life Benefit Example for April 2025
Example: The Sharma Family
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Household net income: $34,000/year
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Two children: One aged 3, one aged 9
Monthly Benefits:
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For 3-year-old: $648.91
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For 9-year-old: $547.50
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Total Monthly CCB: $1,196.41
Because the family’s income is below the threshold, they receive the maximum benefit without any reductions.
Provincial and Territorial Top-Up Benefits
In addition to the federal CCB, some provinces offer their own child benefits. Here are a few examples:
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Ontario: Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) – up to $1,607 per child annually
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Alberta: Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB) – issued quarterly
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Quebec: Family Allowance – varies by family income and child age
Make sure to check with your provincial website to apply for these additional benefits or confirm automatic enrollment.
Common Reasons for CCB Payment Delays
To avoid missing your CCB in April, be aware of the most common causes of payment disruption:
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Late or missing tax returns
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Changes in custody or marital status not reported to CRA
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Incorrect direct deposit information
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Immigration status not updated for non-citizens
Always keep your CRA My Account information updated to prevent delays.
Tips to Maximize Your Child Benefit
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File your taxes every year, even if you have no income
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Apply for the CCB immediately after the child’s birth
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Report any change in marital status or number of children
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Double-check your direct deposit details
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Track your CRA messages regularly for updates or notices
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Combine with provincial benefits for additional support
FAQs
How much will I receive through the CCB in April 2025?
If your income qualifies, you could receive up to $648.91 per month for each child under 6 and $547.50 for each child aged 6 to 17.
When is the April 2025 CCB payment scheduled?
The next Canada Child Benefit payment will be deposited on April 17, 2025.
Do both parents need to file taxes to get the benefit?
Yes. To stay eligible, both you and your spouse or common-law partner must file an annual tax return.
Can I still apply if I didn’t apply at birth?
Yes. You can apply online through CRA My Account or by mail using Form RC66 at any time.
Will my CCB amount change if my income increases?
Yes. The benefit is income-tested and will decrease gradually as your family’s net income increases.
What happens if my payment is delayed?
Check your CRA My Account for updates. If everything is correct and you still don’t receive the payment, contact CRA support.
Is the CCB taxable?
No. The Canada Child Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment.
Can I receive other child benefits with the CCB?
Yes. You may also qualify for provincial benefits like OCB in Ontario or ACFB in Alberta, in addition to the federal CCB.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.