The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) plays a crucial role in providing financial assistance to Canadian residents through various benefits. These programs, such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and others, offer vital support to families, seniors, and workers. As we approach December 2025, it’s essential to understand the CRA’s payment schedule to ensure that you receive your benefits promptly.
Whether you’re preparing for retirement, raising children, or seeking financial support, this guide will help you keep track of your CRA benefit payments and stay informed about the key dates and details.
Key CRA Benefits Payment Schedule for December 2025
Benefit | Payment Date | Maximum Payment | Eligibility |
---|---|---|---|
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | December 22, 2025 | $1,364.60/month (Maximum) | Canadians 60+ with sufficient contributions |
Old Age Security (OAS) | December 22, 2025 | $778.45/month (For seniors 75+) | Seniors 65+ who meet residency criteria |
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | December 12, 2025 | $7,787/year (Children under 6) | Families with children under 18 |
GST/HST Credit | December 4, 2025 | $519 (Single) / $680 (Couple) | Low to moderate-income individuals/families |
Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) | December 10, 2025 | Up to $1,013/year | Ontario residents with specific income levels |
Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR) | December 15, 2025 | Varies by province | Residents of provinces with federal carbon pricing |
Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) | December 10, 2025 | Up to $1,518 (Single) / $2,616 (Family) | Low-income working individuals/families |
Understanding the CRA Benefit Payments
1. Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) provides financial support to Canadians aged 60 and older who have made contributions to the plan. In December 2025, the CPP payment will be made on December 22. The maximum monthly benefit is $1,364.60, but it varies depending on the amount contributed over the years.
Tip: To ensure timely payments, register for direct deposit through the CRA’s online services, eliminating the risk of waiting for a cheque.
For more information on CPP benefits, visit the official CRA website.
2. Old Age Security (OAS)
Old Age Security (OAS) is a government-funded program providing monthly payments to seniors 65 and older. The payment for December 2025 will be issued on December 22, with a maximum of $778.45 for seniors aged 75 and over. The amount is based on residency in Canada, not work history.
Tip: Make sure to file your income tax returns, as this will affect your eligibility for OAS.
For more information on OAS, visit the official CRA page.
3. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment designed to help families with children. In December 2025, the payment is scheduled for December 12. Families with children under 6 years old can receive a maximum of $7,787 annually, with a slightly lower amount for children aged 6 to 17.
Tip: Filing your taxes annually ensures you receive the correct amount based on your family’s income.
Visit the CRA website for more details on the CCB.
4. GST/HST Credit
The GST/HST Credit helps low- and moderate-income households offset the cost of the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax. The payment for December 2025 is set for December 4, with a maximum of $519 for a single person and $680 for a couple.
Tip: To ensure you receive your GST/HST Credit on time, set up direct deposit through the CRA’s online portal.
For more information, visit the CRA’s GST/HST Credit page.
5. Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a combined payment for energy and property tax credits for eligible Ontario residents. For December 2025, the payment will be made on December 10, with a maximum of $1,013 annually.