Families in Canada are getting some extra money from the government next week, and if you’re raising children under 18, you may be one of the beneficiaries. The Canada Child Benefit (CCB), a tax-free monthly payment provided by the federal government to help with the cost of raising children, is set to be deposited on May 20, 2025.
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This latest payment is part of the ongoing support plan that includes yearly adjustments for inflation, with another boost expected in July 2025. Here’s a complete guide to what’s changing, how much you can expect, and how provincial top-ups factor into the total support.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit is a monthly payment administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for eligible families with children under 18 years of age. It’s designed to help cover the cost of food, clothing, school, and other essentials.
May 2025 CCB Payment Details
- Deposit Date: May 20, 2025
- Tax-Free: Yes
- Eligibility: Based on household income and number/age of children
- Payment Amounts (Current Year):
- Up to $7,787 annually ($648/month) per child under age 6
- Up to $6,570 annually ($547/month) per child aged 6–17
Ontario Child Benefit Payment Arriving May 20, 2025: Check Eligibility and Amounts Now
Canada Child Benefit May 2025: Payment Date, Eligibility Rules, and Updated Monthly Amounts
What’s Changing in July 2025?
Starting July 2025, the federal government will increase CCB payments by 2.7%. This is a smaller increase than the 4.7% boost in 2024 but still helpful for families coping with inflation.
New CCB Amounts (Effective July 2025 – June 2026):
- Children under 6:
From $7,787 → $7,997 annually (~$666/month) - Children aged 6–17:
From $6,570 → $6,748 annually (~$562/month)
Child Disability Benefit Also Increasing
Families who qualify for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) will also see an increase in July 2025:
- From $3,322 → $3,411 annually
This is in addition to the base CCB payment and is meant to provide extra support for children with disabilities.
Missed a Tax Filing? You Might Miss Your Payment
The CRA requires your 2024 tax return to be filed and assessed in order to determine your eligibility. If you haven’t filed yet, your CCB payments will be delayed until your return is processed.
Rule Change in January 2025: Death of a CCB Recipient
If a CCB recipient passes away, new rules introduced in January 2025 determine how and when payments can continue to another guardian or surviving parent. Families affected by this situation should contact the CRA immediately to update account information.
Provincial Child Benefit Programs
In addition to federal support, many provinces offer their own child benefit programs:
Ontario Child Benefit (OCB)
- Up to $1,607 annually per child
- Paid monthly alongside the CCB
Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB)
- Quarterly payments
- Income-tested and paid in addition to the CCB
British Columbia Family Benefit
- Offers a six-month bonus through June 2025
- Max annual benefit with bonus:
- $2,188 for the first child
- $1,375 for the second child
- $1,125 for each additional child
How to Check If You’re Eligible
To confirm eligibility and estimated payments:
- Visit the official CRA portal or use the Canada Child Benefit eligibility tool
Key Takeaways
- May 20, 2025: Next CCB payment date
- July 2025: Payments increase by 2.7%
- File taxes: Required to receive benefits
- Provincial programs: Offer extra support in many provinces
- Families with disabilities: Eligible for additional CDB payments
Stay informed and make sure your information with CRA is up-to-date to avoid missing out on thousands of dollars in support.