Canadian parents have a reason to stay alert this October — the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment is on its way. The next deposit is scheduled for October 20, 2025, following the last payout on September 19, 2025. For millions of families, these monthly, tax-free payments are essential in helping manage the rising cost of raising children across the country.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment from the Government of Canada, administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It provides financial help to eligible parents or guardians raising children under 18 years of age. Unlike taxable benefits, the full amount is paid directly—without any deductions—to families.
The CCB amount is reviewed each year to reflect inflation and family income, ensuring families continue to receive adequate support as the cost of living rises.
Between July 2025 and June 2026, eligible parents can receive the following maximum amounts:
| Child’s Age | Maximum Annual Benefit | Approx. Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 years | $7,997 | Around $666 per month |
| 6–17 years | $6,748 | Around $562 per month |
Families with higher incomes will receive reduced payments, as the benefit is income-tested.
Eligibility Criteria for CCB 2025
To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit in 2025, you must meet the following conditions:
- You are a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- You are the primary caregiver responsible for raising the child.
- The child is under 18 years old.
- You have filed your 2024 income tax return, as well as any previous outstanding returns.
- You or your spouse/partner are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or a temporary resident who has lived in Canada for at least 18 months.
The CRA automatically determines eligibility based on your tax information and issues payments accordingly.
Canada Child Benefit 2025 Payment Schedule
The CRA releases CCB payments monthly. Below is the updated payment calendar for 2025:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| September 2025 | 19th |
| October 2025 | 20th |
| November 2025 | 20th |
| December 2025 | 12th |
Most recipients receive their payments via direct deposit, though mailed cheques remain an option for those not enrolled online.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
If you’re a new parent or haven’t applied yet, you can easily do so online through your CRA My Account or during the birth registration process at your hospital.
Steps to Apply:
- Log in to your CRA My Account.
- Locate and open the Canada Child Benefit application form.
- Enter your details, including your child’s information, family income, and residency status.
- Upload required documents such as:
- Birth certificate or proof of birth
- Proof of residency
- Valid identification
- Submit the form online.
Once submitted, applications typically take 6–8 weeks to process. Payments begin the following month after approval.
Impact of the CCB Program
The Canada Child Benefit is more than just a payment — it’s a financial safety net for families struggling with rising costs. Expenses such as daycare, groceries, housing, and healthcare continue to climb, and the CCB ensures that parents, especially in low- and middle-income groups, receive consistent support.
Since its launch in 2016, the CCB has been credited with reducing child poverty across Canada.
For instance, a family with two children — one under 6 and another between 6–17 — can receive up to $14,745 annually, depending on income. That’s more than $1,200 per month, which can make a meaningful difference in covering essential expenses.
Preparing for the October 2025 Payment
To avoid any delays in receiving your October payment, families are advised to:
- Ensure direct deposit information with the CRA is accurate.
- Confirm that all tax returns (especially for 2024) are filed and up to date.
- Report any changes in marital status, address, or number of dependents promptly through the CRA portal.
Even minor discrepancies in your information can delay payment processing.
Key Takeaway
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) 2025 remains one of the most effective federal programs in helping families manage day-to-day living costs. As prices continue to rise, timely support like the October 20 payment ensures that children’s needs remain a top priority for the government.
FAQs
Q1. When is the next CCB payment for 2025?
The next Canada Child Benefit payment will be deposited on October 20, 2025.
Q2. How much can I receive under the Canada Child Benefit?
Eligible parents can receive up to $7,997 annually for children under 6 and $6,748 for those aged 6–17.
Q3. How do I apply for the CCB?
You can apply online through your CRA My Account or during your child’s birth registration process.
