An increased Canada Child Benefit will go out today. Here’s how much more you could get

Here’s what you need to know about how much you can get from CCB payments and other benefits, along with how you can apply and when you can expect the payments.

How much can I receive from the CCB in July?

In July, and for the next year, the base amount for each child under six has been bumped up to $7,787 per year — a $350 increase from last year. That translates to a maximum monthly benefit of $648.91. For children between six and 17 years old, the amount will increase by $295, up to $6,570 per child.

The amount you receive under the CCB is based on several factors, including the number of children in your care, their age, your marital status and your adjusted family net income from last year’s tax return.

The income threshold has also go up — families with an adjusted net income under $36,502 will be eligible for the maximum amount for each child beginning in July.

The benefit is recalculated and adjusted every July. The benefit Canadians receive from July 2024 to June 2025 will be based on their income from the previous year, 2023.

The CCB is intended to provide increased support to low- and middle-income families with children. Families with an adjusted net income under the threshold will receive the maximum amount for each child.

Payments gradually decrease for those with a net income above that threshold. For example, a family with one child under six and an adjusted net income of $45,000 would receive $7,192.14 from the CCB, for the July 2024 to June 2025 period.

Parents with shared custody of their child or children will each get half of the benefit. Children eligible for the disability tax credit may also be eligible for an additional $3,322 per year (or $276.83 per month).

What other benefits can I get?

Parents in Ontario can also claim a top-up in the form of the Ontario child benefit, a tax-free benefit delivered alongside the CCB through monthly payments provided by the provincial government. Eligible parents can get up to $140 per month.

When you apply for the CCB, you are automatically assessed for the Ontario Child Benefit, according to the province’s website.

When can I expect to receive the benefit?

The CCB is generally paid between the 17^th and 20th of each month, except in December, when the benefit is issued on Dec. 13. The next payment date is scheduled for August 20. 

However, if you’re annual benefit amount is less than $240, you will only receive a lump-sum payment in July instead of monthly installments.

How can I apply?

You can apply for the CCB one of three ways: through birth registration, online through your personal Canada Revenue Agency account or by mail.

If you’re applying when you register the birth of your newborn, you’ll need to consent and provide your social insurance number.

If applying online, you can go through your CRA account online on the benefits page, and processing times take about eight weeks. If applying by mail, the form can be found online and sent to a tax centre — payments will be delivered within 11 weeks.