Canada Child Benefit Overview: Who’s Eligible, How to Apply, and Monthly Amounts

The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment designed to help eligible families with the cost of raising children under 18 years old. If you’re a Canadian parent, the CCB can provide essential financial support. Here’s everything you need to know about applying for the CCB and how much it can benefit you.

How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit

To apply for the Canada Child Benefit, first ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements:

• You must live with the child, and the child must be under 18 years of age
• Be primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child
• Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
• Either you or your spouse/common-law partner must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, a temporary resident living in Canada for at least 18 months with a valid permit, or an individual registered or entitled to be registered under the Indian Act.

You can apply for the child benefit online by submitting your application through your Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) account or by mail using Form RC66, Canada Child Benefits Application.

You should apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) as soon as any of the following situations occur: when your child is born; when a child begins or returns to live with you after a temporary arrangement; when you start, end, or change a shared custody arrangement; when you gain custody of a child; or when you or your spouse or common-law partner first meet the eligibility conditions for the benefit. In many cases, you can automatically apply for the CCB when you file your taxes for the year.

Canada Child Benefit Supporting Documents

When applying for the Canada Child Benefit, you will need to provide supporting documents to verify your eligibility. The Canada Revenue Agency may request documentation to confirm your marital status, residency, citizenship or immigration status, primary caregiving responsibilities, and proof of your child’s birth. Additionally, you will need to submit personal information, including details about your household income.

How Much is the Canada Child Tax Benefit Monthly?

The amount you receive through the CCB varies based on several factors, including the number of children in your care, their ages, and your adjusted family net income (AFNI).

Below are the maximum payment amounts for the period from July 2024 to June 2025, based on your 2023 AFNI. If your AFNI is below $36,502, you will receive the full amount for each child without any reduction.

For each child:

• under 6 years of age: $7,787 per year ($648.91 per month)
• 6 to 17 years of age: $6,570 per year ($547.50 per month)

The payments gradually start decreasing when the adjusted family net income is over $36,502. You can use the CRA’s calculator to find out what child and family benefits you may be able to get and how much your payments may be.

Additional Provincial Benefits

Some provinces and territories offer additional assistance to help with the cost of raising a family. In British Columbia, the BC Family Benefit (BCFB) is a tax-free monthly payment to families with children under the age of 18. The amount is combined with the CCB into a single monthly payment.

For July 2024 to June 2025, eligible families will receive a BC Family Benefit bonus with their monthly BCFB payment. You may be entitled to receive the following amounts (including the bonus):

• $182.33 per month for the first child
• $41.66 per month for the first child in a single parent family
• $114.58 per month for the second child 
• $93.75 per month for each additional child

Need Help Applying for the Canada Child Benefit?

Navigating the Canada Child Benefit application process can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. With our team’s expertise in personal income tax, we’re here to ensure you get the maximum benefit you’re entitled to. From gathering supporting documents to helping you understand eligibility requirements and additional provincial benefits, our accountants provide the guidance you need to simplify the process. We proudly serve Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Parksville, Qualicum, Port Alberni, Duncan, and Lake Cowichan.

Contact us today!