What Is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a non-taxable monthly payment designed to assist eligible Canadian families with the cost of raising children under 18. Managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the amount a family receives is determined based on their net income from the previous year, along with factors like the number of children and their ages.
In 2024, the CCB payment has been adjusted for inflation to provide families with the necessary support amid rising living expenses. The upcoming payment, set to be issued on September 20, 2024, reflects these updates.
Key Information for September 2024 CCB Payment
- Payment Date: September 20, 2024
- Maximum Annual Benefit:
- $7,437 per child under 6 years old
- $6,275 per child aged 6 to 17
- Payment Frequency: Monthly
- Eligibility: Families with children under 18 who meet income criteria
- How to Check: Use CRA’s My Account portal or check by mail
- Increase for 2024: A 6.3% rise compared to the previous benefit year
- Link: Canada Revenue Agency – Canada Child Benefit
How Much Will You Receive?
For the 2024-2025 benefit year, eligible families can expect:
- $7,437 annually for each child under 6 years old (about $620 per month)
- $6,275 annually for children aged 6 to 17 (around $513 per month)
These amounts represent an increase from the previous year’s figures. The maximum benefit for children under 6 was $6,997, and for those aged 6 to 17, it was $5,903. These increases are meant to help families cope with inflation, ensuring that the benefit remains aligned with the rising costs of living.
Families with an adjusted family net income of less than $34,863 can receive the maximum benefit. For higher incomes, the amount gradually decreases.
How to Check the Status of Your CCB Payment
You can check your CCB payment status by logging into the CRA’s My Account portal. To ensure prompt receipt of the payment, keep your direct deposit information up to date. If you are expecting a mailed cheque, allow extra time for delivery.
If your payment has not arrived within 5 business days of the scheduled date, contact CRA for assistance. The CRA website provides further details on how to proceed.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
If you’re new to the CCB program or have recently had a child, applying is easy:
- Online Application: Use the CRA My Account portal to apply. You will need your tax return from the previous year, your child’s details, and proof of Canadian residency.
- Manual Application: Alternatively, you can complete Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefits Application) and mail it to CRA. Note that processing times for paper applications may be longer.
Eligibility for the Canada Child Benefit
To qualify for the CCB, you must:
सम्बंधित ख़बरें
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person
- Live with a child under 18 who is your responsibility
- File your tax return each year, even if you have no income
- Temporary residents who have lived in Canada for at least 18 months with a valid permit may also qualify
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What if I miss a CCB payment?
If you miss a CCB payment, check your CRA My Account for updates or contact CRA. If you’re eligible, any missed payments will be issued retroactively.
Q2: Can I get retroactive CCB payments?
Yes, retroactive payments can be issued if you were eligible for previous months but failed to apply or report changes in income. Contact CRA with the necessary documents to process the outstanding payments.
Q3: How is the CCB payment calculated?
The CCB is based on your family’s net income from the previous year. Lower incomes result in higher benefits, up to the annual maximum limits.
Q4: What if my family’s income changes during the year?
Report any significant changes in your income to the CRA, such as a job loss or a substantial raise. This could lead to an adjustment in your CCB payments. Conversely, if your income increases, your CCB payments may decrease in the following year.
Q5: Can both parents receive the CCB if they share custody?
Yes, in shared custody situations, both parents can apply for the CCB and receive split payments based on how much time each parent spends with the child.
Stay informed, keep your information up to date, and make sure you’re getting the full benefit of the Canada Child Benefit to help cover the costs of raising your children.