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If you’re a parent in Canada, navigating the finances in an uncertain job market can feel overwhelming.
Luckily, some extra cash could be heading your way this month. The March Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment is set to be deposited soon, giving eligible families up to $648 per child to help cover the cost of raising kids.
With inflation still hitting hard, this tax-free payment could help cover everything from diapers to daycare — so here’s everything you need to know about who qualifies, how much you can get, and when the money will arrive.
How much is the Canada Child Benefit?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment designed to help parents with the cost of raising children under 18. It was introduced in 2016 as a replacement for the Universal Child Care Benefit and has since become a key financial support for families across the country.
How much you receive depends on your household income, the number of children you have, and their ages. Some families may also qualify for additional financial assistance through the Child Disability Benefit or provincial/territorial top-ups.
More about CCB payment amounts
How much is the Canada Child Benefit?
Your CCB payment isn’t a flat rate — it’s based on your 2023 income and family situation. For the July 2024 to June 2025 benefit period, eligible families can receive: $648.91 per month ($7,787 per year) for each child under six and $547.50 per month ($6,570 per year) for each child aged 6 to 17.
If your household income exceeds $36,502, your payment will be gradually reduced based on a sliding scale. Certain provinces and territories also offer additional financial support, with families in B.C., New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, P.E.I., and all three territories potentially receiving up to $300 more per child each month.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) offers an online CCB payment calculator to help parents estimate their monthly payments. This tool takes into account your income, number of children, and any additional benefits you may be eligible for, providing a clear breakdown of what you can expect.
More about CCB payment amounts
Who is eligible for the Canada Child Benefit?
To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Be the primary caregiver of a child under 18.
- Have filed your taxes, along with your spouse (if applicable).
Unlike some government benefits, there’s no specific income cut-off — higher-income families may still receive reduced payments.
When will the March Canada Child Benefit be paid?
The next CCB payment date is Thursday, March 20, 2025. Payments are deposited directly into your bank account or sent by cheque, depending on your setup with the CRA. Here are the remaining Canada Child Benefit payment dates for the current benefit year:
- April 17, 2025
- May 20, 2025
- June 20, 2025
More about federal benefit payment dates
How to apply
If you’re a new parent or have recently become the primary caregiver of a child, applying for the Canada Child Benefit is easy. You can apply by:
- Registering your child’s birth and agreeing to share your information with the CRA.
- Applying online through your CRA My Account.
- Mailing Form RC66 to your designated tax centre.
The CRA automatically checks if you qualify for extra provincial or territorial benefits, so you don’t need to submit multiple applications.
More about applying for the CCB
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is completely tax-free, so you don’t have to report it as income or factor it into your tax return. The full amount you receive is yours to keep — no deductions, no tax consequences.
If you’re eligible, make sure you’re set up to receive your Canada Child Benefit payment this month.
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