What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free government assistance plan designed to help raise children under the age of 18. In March 2025, eligible families can receive up to $7,787 per child (for children under 6 years of age) and $6,570 (for children aged 6 to 17).
If you want to take advantage of this scheme, you need to know about eligibility, payment dates, and the application process. In this guide, we will give you every important information related to CCB, so that you can take full advantage of this government assistance.
$7787 Canada Child Benefit in March 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Payment (2024-2025) | Up to $7,787 per child under 6 Up to $6,570 per child aged 6-17 |
| Payment Date (March 2025) | March 20, 2025 |
| Eligibility Criteria | Resident of Canada, primary caregiver of a child under 18, meet income requirements, and have legal status |
| Application Process | Online via CRA, birth registration, or mail (Form RC66) |
| Processing Time | 8 weeks (online) 11 weeks (mail) |
| Additional Benefits | Child Disability Benefit (CDB), Provincial Child Benefits |
| Impact of Income Changes | Higher income may reduce payments; lower income may increase payments |
| Long-Term Impact | Helps cover essential child-related expenses, reduces poverty rates |
| Official Website | Canada.ca – CCB |
The CCB is a much-needed financial aid for families who are struggling with the expenses of raising children. This scheme helps to meet the education, food, clothing and other needs of children. If you have the right information, you can get maximum benefit from this scheme.
When will CCB be paid?
The government pays CCB every month on the 20th, unless this date falls on a weekend or holiday.
Payment date in March 2025:
- March 20, 2025
If the payment is not received by March 27, 2025, you should contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Full list of CCB payments in 2025
CCB is paid every month throughout the year. Here are all the payment dates for 2025:
- January 20, 2025
- February 20, 2025
- March 20, 2025
- April 17, 2025
- May 20, 2025
- June 20, 2025
- July 18, 2025
- August 20, 2025
- September 19, 2025
- October 20, 2025
- November 20, 2025
- December 12, 2025
If you need this amount every month, it will be beneficial to plan your budget according to this schedule.
Factors affecting CCB payments
The amount of Canada Child Benefit can vary from family to family. Here are some of the key factors that can affect your payment:
1. Total family income
CCB payments depend on your annual income. Lower-income families are given more assistance, while higher-income families may receive less assistance.
2. Number of children
If you have more children in your family, the total assistance amount will be higher. But the amount paid per child is fixed.
3. Shared custody
If parents live separately and both care for the child, the CCB payment is split 50-50% between the two.
4. Provincial & Territorial Top-ups
Many provinces in Canada also offer additional assistance along with the CCB. For example:
- Ontario Child Benefit (OCB): $1,607 annual assistance per child.
- Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB): Additional financial support for low-income families.
- Quebec Family Allowance: Additional monthly payment based on number of children and income.
If you qualify for these additional benefits, you can get even more help.
How to apply for CCB?
If you want to take advantage of CCB, you have to apply for it. Here are three ways to apply:
1. Apply online (fastest way)
- Login to the official website of CRA.
- Select the “Apply for Child Benefits” option.
- Fill in the child’s date of birth and other required information.
- Submit the application.
Processing time: 8 weeks.
2. Apply at the time of birth registration
- You can also apply for the CCB when you register your child’s birth.
- Processing time: Varies depending on the province.
3. Apply by mail
- Download Form RC66.
- Fill it out with the correct information.
- Send it to the CRA’s tax centre.
Processing time: 11 weeks.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
1. What if I haven’t received a CCB payment?
Wait 5 business days after the payment date and then contact the CRA at 1-800-387-1193.
2. What if my income changes?
CCB payments are adjusted every year in July according to your new income.
3. Can I still receive CCB if my child is not a Canadian citizen?
Yes, you can receive CCB if you are a Canadian resident and meet other eligibility conditions.
4. How can I check the status of my payment?
You can check the status of your payment by logging into CRA My Account or calling CRA’s automated service.
5. What expenses can CCB funds be used for?
Parents usually spend CCB for the child’s education, health, food, clothing and other basic needs.
Conclusion
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) in March 2025 is an important financial aid that helps many families raise children. If you are eligible for this scheme, apply at the right time and ensure that you avail maximum benefits for your child’s future.