With the cost of living on the rise, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) continues to be a lifeline for families across the country. As of July 2024 to June 2025, the maximum monthly payment for children under 6 has increased to $648.91, providing extra support when it’s needed most.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify for this benefit and when payments will arrive, you’re in the right place.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the $648.91 Canada Child Benefit in 2025, including eligibility criteria, payment amounts, application steps, and more.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The CCB is a monthly, tax-free payment issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help eligible families cover the cost of raising children under 18. It is income-tested, meaning lower-income families receive higher payments.
CCB Highlights for 2025:
- $648.91/month for children under 6
- $547.50/month for children aged 6–17
- Based on your 2023 tax return
- Paid monthly (typically on the 20th)
Eligibility Criteria for the $648.91 CCB
To receive the maximum amount in 2025, families must meet specific criteria:
You Must:
- Live in Canada and be a tax resident
- Be the primary caregiver of the child
- Have filed your 2023 income tax return
- Have a family net income below $36,502
- Be a citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or eligible temporary resident
If your income is above $36,502, you’ll still receive partial benefits, but the amount decreases as income increases.
Payment Amounts Breakdown (July 2024 – June 2025)
The CRA calculates your CCB amount using your adjusted family net income (AFNI) and the number and age of your children.
| Child’s Age | Monthly Amount | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 | $648.91 | $7,787 |
| 6–17 years old | $547.50 | $6,570 |
If your child qualifies for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB), you may receive additional support on top of your CCB.
Example Scenarios
Let’s consider a few example families:
| Scenario | Estimated Monthly CCB |
|---|---|
| Family with 1 child under 6, income of $35,000 | $648.91 |
| Family with 2 kids (4 and 9 years old), income $50K | ~$1,050 |
| Family with 1 child under 6, income of $60,000 | ~$550 |
Actual amounts may vary based on exact income and deductions.
Payment Schedule for 2025
Payments are made around the 20th of each month. If that falls on a weekend or holiday, payment is issued the business day before.
Upcoming CCB Payment Dates in 2025:
- June 20, 2025
- July 18, 2025
- August 20, 2025
- September 19, 2025
- October 20, 2025
- November 20, 2025
- December 12, 2025
Make sure your CRA My Account is up to date with your direct deposit info and mailing address.
Shared Custody Rules
If your child lives 40–60% of the time with each parent, both will receive 50% of the CCB amount. If one parent has less than 40% time, they won’t receive any benefit.
Always notify the CRA about custody changes to prevent overpayments or missed payments.
How to Apply for the CCB
There are several ways to apply:
1. At Birth (via Province)
- Many provinces allow automatic enrollment when registering your child’s birth.
2. CRA My Account
- Apply online through your secure CRA My Account for faster processing.
3. Paper Application
- Complete and mail Form RC66 along with your documents.
You’ll need:
- SINs for both parents
- Proof of status in Canada
- Child’s birth information
What If Your Payment Is Late?
If your CCB payment doesn’t arrive:
- Check CRA My Account for updates
- Confirm your bank or mailing info
- Ensure your tax return is processed
- Call the CRA at 1-800-387-1193 if needed
Most delays happen due to missing or unprocessed tax returns.
Smart Tips for Using the CCB
- Allocate it for childcare, groceries, school supplies, or medical expenses
- Save part in a RESP to benefit from government matching grants
- Use budget tracking apps to manage monthly spending
- Review your eligibility each July when income is reassessed
The $648.91 Canada Child Benefit in 2025 offers real support for families managing the growing costs of raising children. With automatic monthly payments, flexible use, and bonus support for low-income and disabled children, the CCB continues to be a cornerstone of Canada’s child-focused social programs.
Make sure your information is updated, your 2023 taxes are filed, and your CRA account is monitored so you don’t miss out. Whether you’re a new parent or juggling a family of five, this benefit can ease the financial burden and help you focus on what matters most—your kids.
FAQs
Can I still receive CCB if my income is above $36,502?
Yes, but your payment will be reduced based on how much higher your income is above the threshold.
When will I receive the CCB payments in 2025?
CCB payments are issued monthly, usually on or around the 20th, with slight variations for holidays and weekends.
Do I need to reapply for the CCB every year?
No, but you must file your tax return annually to remain eligible and ensure accurate payment amounts.