The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a vital tax-free monthly payment issued to eligible families raising children under the age of 18. Managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this benefit is designed to help offset the cost of child-rearing. For April 2025, families could receive up to $648.91 monthly per child under 6, or $547.50 for children aged 6 to 17.
Canada Child Benefit Rates for April 2025
| Child’s Age Group | Maximum Annual Benefit | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 Years | $7,787 | $648.91 |
| 6 to 17 Years | $6,570 | $547.50 |
Families earning $36,502 or less annually are eligible for the full benefit amount. As income increases, the monthly payment decreases gradually.
Who Is Eligible for CCB in April 2025
To qualify for the April 2025 CCB, you must meet the following conditions:
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Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
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Live with and be the primary caregiver of the child
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Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or temporary resident (with 18+ months of valid status)
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File an annual tax return (both parents or guardians if applicable)
Even if you have zero income, it’s important to file taxes every year to maintain uninterrupted CCB payments.
CCB Payment Date for April 2025
The next Canada Child Benefit will be issued on:
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April 17, 2025
Upcoming 2025 payment dates:
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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 sent through direct deposit or issued as a cheque depending on your CRA account settings.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
There are three methods to apply for the CCB:
Online via CRA My Account
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Log in to your CRA account
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Click on “Apply for Child Benefits”
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Fill out and submit the application
By Mail
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Complete Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefits Application)
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Send it to your regional CRA tax centre
Through Birth Registration
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While registering your child’s birth, select the CCB application option
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This will automatically enroll you in the benefit program
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Example: Monthly CCB for a Low-Income Family
Let’s take a real-world case scenario to understand how CCB is calculated
Example Household: Sharma Family
Annual Income: $34,000
Children: Two (Ages 3 and 9)
April 2025 Benefits:
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For 3-year-old child: $648.91
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For 9-year-old child: $547.50
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Total April CCB: $1,196.41
Since the income is below the $36,502 threshold, the family qualifies for the maximum payment without deductions.
MUST READ: CRA Refund 2025: How to Claim Big Tax Refunds in Canada This Year
Extra Child Benefit Support by Province
In addition to the federal benefit, provinces offer top-up child benefit programs. Here’s a breakdown:
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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) – paid quarterly
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Quebec: Family Allowance – amount depends on family income and number of children
These payments are usually automatic, but it’s a good idea to check your province’s website for application details.
What Causes CCB Delays
Here are the most common reasons why your CCB payment might be delayed:
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Tax returns not filed on time by both parents
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Changes in marital or custody status not reported
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Incorrect direct deposit or mailing address
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Immigration status not updated for non-citizens
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CRA needing additional verification
Make sure all personal and financial information in your CRA My Account is accurate and current.
Tips to Maximize Your Canada Child Benefit
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Always file your tax return by the deadline
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Apply for CCB as soon as your child is born
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Report changes in family or income status quickly
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Enroll in direct deposit for faster payments
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Combine CCB with provincial benefits for maximum support
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Monitor your CRA account for important updates
FAQs
What is the maximum CCB payment in April 2025?
You can receive up to $648.91 per child under 6, and $547.50 per child aged 6 to 17, depending on your family income.
Can I get CCB if I have no income?
Yes. As long as you file your taxes and meet eligibility criteria, you can receive CCB even with zero income.
What happens if one parent does not file a tax return?
CRA requires both parents or guardians to file tax returns. If one fails to do so, CCB payments may be delayed or suspended.
How can I apply for CCB after giving birth?
During birth registration, select the CCB option. This auto-enrolls you. Alternatively, apply online via CRA My Account or by mail using Form RC66.
When is the April 2025 payment scheduled?
The CCB for April 2025 will be issued on April 17. Future dates are mostly around the 20th of each month.
What should I do if I haven’t received my payment?
Check your CRA My Account for updates. If it’s been more than five business days since the payment date, contact CRA directly.
Is there a way to increase my CCB payments?
While benefit amounts are income-based, filing taxes early, updating your information, and claiming all children helps you receive the full amount.
Do all provinces offer extra child benefits?
No, but most do. Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec provide additional child support programs. Check with your province’s official website.
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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.