Canada Child Benefit 2025: Increased Tax-Free Payments Begin July 18 with Early Deposit Dates

New Canada Child Benefit Payments Coming Early On July 18

Families across Canada are set to receive an early boost this summer as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) rolls out increased, tax-free monthly payments starting July 18, 2025. This adjustment reflects the government’s effort to support families amid rising inflation and living costs.

The enhanced payments, administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), are part of the 2025–2026 benefit year. Families with children under 6 can now receive up to $619 per month per child, while those with children aged 6 to 17 can receive up to $522 per month per child. These amounts represent a 2.7% increase over last year, ensuring benefits keep pace with inflation.

For some families, the July payment could be even higher—up to $1,250 per child—due to the combination of the new benefit year and changes in income or family size. A family with one child under 6 and one child between 6–17, earning a net income of $35,000, could receive up to $1,233.42 per month, or $14,801 annually, tax-free.

The July payment is arriving earlier than usual, on July 18 or 19, as the standard payment date of July 20 falls on a Sunday. Families enrolled in direct deposit will receive their funds automatically, while others can expect cheques by mail. Subsequent payments will follow the regular schedule, with August’s payment arriving on August 20.

Eligibility and payment amounts are determined based on the 2024 tax return, with the CRA recalculating benefits each July. Families experiencing a decrease in income or an expansion in family size may see an increase in their monthly payments. The CRA encourages families to check their My Account portal for confirmation of payment details.

This year’s updates to the CCB highlight the program’s commitment to providing targeted support to low- and middle-income households, helping them manage the growing costs of raising children.

Key Details About the 2025–2026 Canada Child Benefit

As the new benefit year begins, families can plan ahead with the updated payment schedule for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). The CRA has outlined the payment dates for the remainder of 2025, ensuring families can budget accordingly. After the early July payment, subsequent payments will follow the standard schedule:

• July 2025: July 18 or 19 (issued early due to the standard date falling on a Sunday)
• August 2025: August 20
• September 2025: September 19 or 20
• October 2025: October 18
• November 2025: November 20
• December 2025: December 19

Payments are issued on the 20th of each month, but dates may adjust if the 20th falls on a weekend or statutory holiday. Families enrolled in direct deposit will receive their funds automatically, while those without direct deposit can expect cheques by mail. Payment processing times may vary depending on individual financial institutions.

How Eligibility and Payment Amounts Are Determined

The CRA determines eligibility and payment amounts based on the information from families’ 2024 tax returns. This includes net family income and the number of children in the household. The CRA automatically recalculates benefits each July, ensuring payments reflect the most recent financial and family circumstances.

Families who experienced a reduction in income or added a child since their last tax filing may be eligible for higher payments. The CRA encourages families to monitor their My Account portal for updates on their payment amounts and schedules. This online service provides real-time information and allows families to track their benefits seamlessly.

Support for Low- and Middle-Income Families

The CCB remains a vital support system for low- and middle-income households, helping them manage the escalating costs of raising children. By adjusting payment amounts for inflation and tailoring benefits based on family size and income, the program ensures that financial assistance reaches those who need it most.

Conclusion

The upcoming changes to the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) for the 2025–2026 benefit year offer welcome relief for families across Canada. With increased payment amounts and an early issuance date of July 18, 2025, families can better manage the rising costs of living. The CRA’s commitment to adjusting benefits based on inflation and household circumstances ensures that support is targeted to those who need it most. Families are encouraged to review their My Account portal for personalized details and to plan accordingly for the new payment schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)