The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a monthly payment made to families to help with the cost of raising children under the age of 18. Newcomers to Canada are eligible for this benefit if:

1. You are living with a child who is under 18 years of age.
2. You are primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child.
3. You are a resident of Canada for tax purposes
4. You or your spouse or common-law partner must be any of the following:
• A Canadian citizen
• A permanent resident
• A protected person
• A temporary resident who has lived in Canada for the previous 18 months, and who has a valid permit in the 19th month other than the one that states “does not confer status” or “does not confer temporary resident status”

This benefit is tax-free and is meant to help low to middle-income families the most. The benefit was increased in 2020, providing support especially with the rising cost of living.

How much do we get?

The amount of money a family receives will be based on the net income reported on income tax returns. This is why all families are urged to file a return each year (even if they did not have income on a particular year). The benefits will be paid monthly, over a 12-month period from July of one year to June the following year.

To check how much you can receive, use the Online calculator. An additional benefit is given for each child who qualifies for a disability payment.

How do you apply for CCB?

If you are eligible, you can apply using one of the following ways:

• Automated Benefits Application – Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will use the child’s birth registration information to determine the benefits.
• CRA My Account – You will need to add your newborn’s information in your online My Account page.
• Canada Child Benefit Application (using Form RC66)

Complete instructions for each application option (and the documents you will need to submit) can be found here: Canada Child Benefit – How to apply.

Those who have been receiving benefits under the Universal Child Care Benefit are automatically enrolled for the CCB. For more information on the CCB, go to the Canada Child Benefit page on the Government of Canada site.
 
Article as of November, 2024. Please check the Government of Canada site for the latest information, for program updates and changes.