In response to rising living costs, the Government of Canada has introduced a significant increase in CRA benefits starting July 2025.
As inflation continues to affect essential services and goods, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is adjusting payments to support individuals and families across the country.
The increases will cover five major benefits aimed at low-income households, working families, seniors, and people with disabilities.
These adjustments are crucial for Canadians feeling the financial pressure from higher living expenses. Below are the details on the increased benefit payments, eligibility, and new amounts for the 2025–2026 benefit year.
CRA Benefit Payments Increase July 2025
Starting in July 2025, the CRA will increase five key benefit payments by 2.7% to ensure support programs align with inflation. These increases aim to provide greater financial relief and preserve the value of federal benefits.
1. GST/HST Credit Increase – Financial Relief for Low-Income Canadians
The GST/HST Credit helps eligible individuals offset the sales taxes on everyday purchases. In the 2025–2026 benefit year, the Canada Revenue Agency is increasing the amount by 2.7%.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Must be 19 years or older or meet other specific conditions.
- Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) should be below $45,521 for singles in 2025.
Updated Payment Details:
| Recipient Type | Annual Amount | Quarterly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Single Individuals | $533 | $133.25 |
| Married/Common-Law Couples | $698 | $174.50 |
| Per Child Under 19 | $184 | $46 |
2. Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – Supporting Families with Children
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) helps families raise children by covering costs like childcare, food, and school supplies. A 2.7% increase will apply for 2025–2026.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be the primary caregiver for a child under 18.
- Must file annual income tax returns.
- Must be a Canadian resident.
Updated Payment Details:
| Child’s Age | Maximum Annual Amount | Maximum Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 | $7,997 | $666.41 |
| Ages 6–17 | $6,748 | $562.33 |
3. Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) – Empowering Low-Income Workers
The ACWB provides financial assistance to low-income workers who are engaged in the workforce. For the 2025–2026 period, this benefit is also being increased by 2.7%.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be 19 years or older (or have a spouse/child if younger).
- Working income must exceed $3,000.
- Must be a Canadian resident.
Updated Payment Details:
| Recipient Type | Maximum Annual Amount |
|---|---|
| Single Individuals | $1,572 |
| Families | $2,705 |
4. Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) – Provincial Relief for Ontarians
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) helps offset costs like property taxes, energy, and sales taxes. From July 2025, the Ontario provincial benefits will be increased by 2.7%.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a resident of Ontario who filed a 2023 tax return.
- Must meet income and residency conditions.
Updated Payment Details:
| Credit Type | Maximum Annual Amount |
|---|---|
| Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC) | $360 |
| Energy & Property Tax Credit | $1,248–$1,421 |
| Northern Ontario Energy Credit | $180–$277 |
5. Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) – New Support for Low-Income Canadians with Disabilities
Starting in July 2025, the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) will offer monthly payments to low-income individuals with disabilities. This initiative is designed to alleviate financial hardships for Canadians facing additional challenges.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be aged 18–64.
- Must qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
- Must have low income.
Estimated Payment Details:
| Benefit Type | Maximum Monthly Amount | Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Disability Benefit | Up to $200 | $2,400 |
Maximize Your Benefit Payments
To ensure that you receive the full amount of your CRA benefits, consider the following tips:
- File your tax return by April 30, 2025, even if you have no income.
- Update personal details like your address and banking information through the CRA My Account.
- Register for Direct Deposit to reduce delays in receiving payments.
- Check your eligibility and payment status using the Canada Revenue Agency online calculator.
CRA July 2025 Payment Calendar
| Benefit | Payment Date | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| GST/HST Credit | July 4, 2025 | Quarterly |
| Ontario Trillium Benefit | July 10, 2025 | Monthly |
| Advanced Canada Workers Benefit | July 11, 2025 | Tri-Annual |
| Canada Child Benefit | July 18, 2025 | Monthly |
| Canada Disability Benefit | July 2025 (TBD) | Monthly |
Why These Increases Matter
These benefit increases are critical for Canadians navigating the ongoing economic challenges. They provide essential support to families, workers, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring that financial assistance keeps pace with inflation.
These updates, which could total over $4,100 annually for qualifying households, will help to stabilize financial security for many Canadians.
The Canada Revenue Agency benefit increase in July 2025 provides vital financial support for Canadian individuals and families. By understanding the new amounts and eligibility criteria, Canadians can maximize their benefits and secure much-needed relief in the face of rising living costs.
FAQs
When will the CRA benefit increases begin?
The Canada Revenue Agency benefit increases will take effect starting July 2025.
Who qualifies for the Canada Disability Benefit?
To qualify for the Canada Disability Benefit, you must be aged 18–64, qualify for the Disability Tax Credit, and have low income.
How can I check my eligibility for CRA benefits?
You can check your eligibility using the CRA’s online calculator and by keeping your personal details updated through your CRA My Account.