The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has officially released the payment dates for various benefit programs in 2025. This includes essential programs like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST Credit, Canada Workers Benefit (CWB), and others. Understanding these dates, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts will ensure you maximize the support you’re entitled to, helping you better manage your finances.
CRA 2025 Benefits Payment Dates
Knowing when payments will be issued is crucial for budgeting and planning your finances. Below is the full schedule for key CRA benefits in 2025:
| Benefit Program | Payment Dates | Eligibility | Benefit Amount | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | 20th of each month | Families with children under 18, based on income | Up to $7,786.92 per child under 6, up to $6,570 for children aged 6 to 17 | CRA Official Site |
| GST/HST Credit | Quarterly: Jan 3, Apr 4, Jul 4, Oct 3 | Low/moderate income individuals & families | Up to $519 for singles, $680 for couples, $179 per child | CRA GST/HST Credit |
| Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) | Quarterly: Jan 10, Apr 10, Jul 10, Oct 10 | Low-income individuals & families with earned income | Up to $1,518 for singles, $2,616 for families | CRA CWB |
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | Monthly: 3rd-to-last business day of each month | Canadians who contributed to CPP | Varies based on contributions | CRA CPP |
| Old Age Security (OAS) | Monthly: 3rd-to-last business day of each month | Canadians 65+ who meet residency requirements | Maximum varies based on income | CRA OAS |
| Canada Carbon Rebate | Quarterly: Jan 15, Apr 15, Jul 15, Oct 15 | Residents in provinces with federal carbon pricing | Varies by province and family size | Canada Carbon Rebate |
| Alberta Child and Family Benefit | Quarterly: Feb 27, May 27, Aug 27, Nov 27 | Alberta families with children under 18 | Based on family income and number of children | Alberta ACFB |
How to Maximize Your Benefits
To avoid missing out on your payments, follow these practical tips:
- Set Up Direct Deposit: The fastest way to receive your payments. Sign up through your CRA My Account.
- Mark Your Calendar: Make note of the payment dates for each benefit program and set reminders.
- Keep Your Information Updated: Report any changes in your circumstances (address, marital status, number of dependents) to CRA to ensure smooth payments.
Understanding CRA Benefits Programs
The CRA offers several financial support programs to assist Canadians in various circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of each program:
1. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment that helps families with children under 18 cover the costs of raising kids.
- Payment Dates: Payments are issued on the 20th of each month. If the 20th falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are made on the previous business day.
- Eligibility: Based on family income and the number of children.
- Benefit Amount:
- Up to $7,786.92 per child under 6
- Up to $6,570 for children aged 6 to 17
For more details, visit the CRA CCB page.
2. GST/HST Credit
The GST/HST Credit helps low- and moderate-income families offset the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) they pay.
- Payment Dates: Quarterly: January 3, April 4, July 4, and October 3.
- Eligibility: Based on your income tax return.
- Benefit Amount:
- $519 for singles
- $680 for couples
- $179 per child under 19
For more details, visit the CRA GST/HST Credit page.
3. Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
The CWB is a refundable tax credit aimed at helping low-income workers.
- Payment Dates: Quarterly: January 10, April 10, July 10, and October 10.
- Eligibility: Based on income and employment status.
- Benefit Amount:
- $1,518 maximum for singles
- $2,616 maximum for families
For more details, visit the CRA CWB page.
4. Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
The CPP provides monthly payments to Canadians who have contributed to the program during their working years.
- Payment Dates: Monthly, on the 3rd-to-last business day of each month.
- Eligibility: Canadians who have made contributions to the CPP.
- Benefit Amount: Varies based on contributions made over your lifetime.
For more details, visit the CRA CPP page.
5. Old Age Security (OAS)
The OAS is a monthly payment available to Canadians aged 65 and older who meet residency requirements.
- Payment Dates: Monthly, on the 3rd-to-last business day of each month.
- Eligibility: Canadians aged 65+ who meet the residency requirements.
- Benefit Amount: Varies based on income.
For more details, visit the CRA OAS page.
6. Canada Carbon Rebate
This rebate is for residents in provinces with federal carbon pricing.
- Payment Dates: Quarterly: January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15.
- Eligibility: Residents in provinces with federal carbon pricing.
- Benefit Amount: Varies based on province and family size.
7. Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB)
The ACFB helps Alberta families with children under 18.
- Payment Dates: Quarterly: February 27, May 27, August 27, November 27.
- Eligibility: Alberta families with children under 18.
- Benefit Amount: Based on family income and the number of children.
How to Apply for CRA Benefits
To apply for most CRA benefits, eligibility is automatically determined when you file your income tax return. However, if you are applying for the first time or if your circumstances change, you may need to:
- Gather Necessary Documents: Ensure you have all relevant documents ready, including financial, employment, and residency information.
- Log in to CRA My Account: Sign up or log in to CRA’s online service for faster processing.
- Complete the Application: Apply online or use paper forms as necessary.
- Verify and Submit: Double-check your application and submit it via the CRA portal or by mail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How do I check if I’m eligible for CRA benefits? Visit the CRA website and review each program’s eligibility section. Filing your income tax return is key as many benefits depend on the data from your return.
- What happens if a payment date falls on a holiday or weekend? Payments will usually be issued on the last business day before the scheduled date if the payment date falls on a holiday or weekend.
- Can I receive multiple CRA benefits at once? Yes, you may qualify for multiple benefits if you meet the eligibility criteria for each program.
- What should I do if I don’t receive my payment on the expected date? If your payment is delayed, contact the CRA after five business days to verify your information, such as banking details or mailing address.
- Is there a maximum income limit for receiving CRA benefits? Many CRA benefits are income-tested. Higher income levels may reduce or eliminate your eligibility. Check each program’s page for specific thresholds.