As families across Canada continue to face rising living costs, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) has been increased in 2024 to provide essential financial support. The CCB now offers up to $7,787 annually for children under 6 years old and up to $6,570 for those aged 6 to 17. This boost comes as part of the government’s efforts to adjust the benefit to inflation and support families in managing their expenses.
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
Launched in 2016, the Canada Child Benefit is a non-taxable, monthly payment designed to assist families with the costs associated with raising children. The amount of the benefit depends on several factors, including family income, the number of children, and eligibility for additional support like the Child Disability Benefit.
For 2024, the CCB has been increased by 4.7% to match the rising costs of living, meaning families can receive between $6,570 and $7,787 per child. The exact amount depends on the child’s age and the family’s income.
| Benefit Type | Child Age | Annual Maximum | Monthly Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Under 6 years | Up to $7,787 | $648.91 |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | 6 to 17 years | Up to $6,570 | $547.50 |
| Disability Supplement | All eligible | Up to $3,322 | $276.83 |
How the CCB Works
The CCB is paid out on a monthly basis, with payments typically arriving by the 20th of each month. The amount families receive is calculated based on their adjusted family net income (AFNI) from the previous year. For instance, the CCB payments for the 2024–2025 benefit year will be based on the income reported in the family’s 2023 tax return.
- For families earning up to $36,502: The full CCB amount is provided.
- For families with an income between $36,502 and $79,087: The benefit amount gradually reduces by 13.5% for every dollar earned above $36,502.
- For families earning more than $79,087: The benefit reduces further by 5.7% for every dollar above this threshold.
CCB Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CCB, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be responsible for the care and upbringing of a child under 18 years of age.
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- Either the applicant or their spouse/common-law partner must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or have valid temporary resident status for at least 18 months.
Applying for the CCB
Applying for the CCB is simple. If you’re a new parent, registering your child’s birth automatically triggers the application process for the benefit. Alternatively, you can apply online through your CRA account or by filling out Form RC66, submitting it along with relevant documents such as a birth certificate.
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Newcomers to Canada who meet the residency requirements can also apply by providing proof of status and filing their income tax returns.
CCB Payment Dates in 2024
The CCB is paid monthly, and the payment dates for 2024 are as follows:
- January 19, 2024
- February 20, 2024
- March 20, 2024
- April 19, 2024
- May 17, 2024
- June 20, 2024
- July 19, 2024
- August 20, 2024
- September 20, 2024
- October 18, 2024
- November 20, 2024
- December 13, 2024
If a payment is missed, parents should wait five business days before contacting the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to resolve the issue.
Common Questions About the CCB
- How is the CCB calculated? The CCB is based on your adjusted family net income from the previous tax year. The more children you have, the higher the potential benefit. However, as income rises, the benefit amount decreases.
- What if my financial situation changes? If your income drops significantly, you may be eligible for higher payments. It’s important to file your taxes annually to ensure accurate adjustments.
- Can I receive the CCB if I share custody of my children? Yes. In shared custody situations, each parent can receive 50% of the benefit they would get if they had full custody.
- Can I combine the CCB with other benefits? Yes, the CCB can be combined with provincial or territorial child benefits, such as the Ontario Child Benefit, and the Child Disability Benefit for children with disabilities.
- Can newcomers to Canada apply for the CCB? Yes, newcomers can receive the CCB if they have lived in Canada for at least 18 months and meet all other eligibility criteria.
The CCB remains a vital source of support for Canadian families, offering much-needed financial relief in a time of rising costs. By understanding the eligibility criteria, payment schedule, and how the benefit is calculated, families can maximize the support available to them.