The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) offers vital financial support to families raising children in Canada, with the December 2024 payment providing up to $648 per child under six years old. This tax-free benefit helps offset the costs associated with raising children, especially during the holiday season. The payment will be made on December 13, 2024, so if you’re eligible, be sure to mark this important date on your calendar.
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit is a monthly, tax-free payment provided by the Canadian government to help families manage the expenses of raising children under the age of 18. The benefit is distributed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), with amounts based on a family’s adjusted net income and the number and ages of their children. Families with lower incomes receive the highest amounts, while those with higher incomes see a gradual decrease in their payments.
December 2024 CCB Payment Details
Payment Date: December 13, 2024
Maximum Monthly Amount: Up to $648 for children under 6; $547 for children aged 6-17.
Eligibility: Parents or caregivers of children under 18, Canadian residents, who file their annual tax returns.
Income Threshold: The benefit gradually reduces once a family’s annual net income exceeds $36,502.
The CCB helps cover child-rearing expenses, and the December payment comes just before the holiday season, providing a timely financial boost for families. Payments are made either by direct deposit or cheque, depending on the method you have selected.
Eligibility for the Canada Child Benefit
To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit, you must meet the following criteria:
- Primary Caregiver: You must be primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of your child, including meeting their daily needs (such as food, clothing, and housing).
- Age of Child: The child must be under the age of 18.
- Canadian Residency: You and your spouse or common-law partner must be residents of Canada for tax purposes.
- Tax Filing: Both you and your partner must file annual income tax returns so the CRA can calculate your benefit based on your adjusted family net income (AFNI).
- Legal Status: You or your partner must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person (refugee), or a temporary resident who has lived in Canada for the past 18 months with a valid permit.
How Much Can You Receive from the CCB?
The amount of the Canada Child Benefit varies depending on your family income and the age of your children. For the payment period from July 2024 to June 2025, the maximum benefit is as follows:
- Children under 6 years old: Up to $7,787 annually (about $648.91 per month).
- Children aged 6-17 years: Up to $6,570 annually (about $547.50 per month).
For example, if you have two children under six and your family income is below $36,502, you would receive $648.91 per child, totaling $1,297.82 per month. As your family income increases, the payments gradually decrease.
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Additional Benefits Linked to the Canada Child Benefit
In addition to the CCB, families may be eligible for several related benefits, such as:
- Child Disability Benefit (CDB): If your child has a severe and prolonged disability, you may qualify for the CDB, which provides up to $3,173 annually ($264.41 per month).
- Provincial and Territorial Benefits: Certain provinces and territories, such as Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, offer additional child benefit programs that complement the CCB.
- GST/HST Credit: Families with low to modest incomes may also receive the GST/HST Credit to offset sales taxes.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
If you’re a new parent or have recently moved to Canada, applying for the CCB is simple:
- Online: Log in to your CRA My Account, select “Apply for child benefits,” and follow the instructions to submit your application.
- At Birth Registration: You can consent to have your child’s information shared with the CRA when registering their birth, which will automatically apply for the CCB.
- By Mail: Complete Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefits Application) and mail it to your local tax services office.
Payment Methods
The CRA offers two methods for receiving your CCB payments:
- Direct Deposit: This is the fastest and most secure method. Payments are directly deposited into your bank account.
- Cheque: If you prefer, payments can be issued by cheque and mailed to your registered address.
To set up direct deposit, you can log in to your CRA My Account or use your bank’s online services to link your account.
FAQs About the December 2024 CCB Payment
- How often are CCB payments made?
CCB payments are made monthly, typically on the 20th of each month. However, the December 2024 payment will be made earlier on December 13, 2024. - Can temporary residents receive the CCB?
Yes, temporary residents who have lived in Canada for at least 18 months and have a valid permit in the 19th month may be eligible. - What happens if my income changes?
The CRA recalculates CCB payments every July based on the previous year’s tax return. Any changes to your income will affect your payments in the subsequent benefit period. - Are there additional benefits for families with children with disabilities?
Yes, the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) provides additional financial support to families caring for children with disabilities. - What if I missed applying for the CCB?
You can apply retroactively for up to three years. It’s important to submit your application as soon as possible.
By staying informed about your eligibility and ensuring your application is up to date, you can make the most of this valuable financial support to help cover the costs of raising children in Canada.