The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) will see an increase in 2024 to assist families facing higher living expenses. Families can now receive up to $7,787 each year for children under the age of 6, and $6,570 for those aged 6 to 17. Find out about eligibility requirements, how payments are determined, and when you can anticipate your payments this year.
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is an essential government program designed to assist families with children under 18 years old. To address the increasing cost of living, the CCB is adjusted annually for inflation, providing tax-free monthly payments to qualifying families. In 2024, the benefit has been raised, allowing families to receive between $6,570 and $7,787 per child, based on their age.
Canada Child Benefit Increase: $6,570 to $7,787 in 2024
The Canada Child Benefit is a vital financial resource for Canadian families, offering essential support for child-rearing. The increase in 2024 guarantees that families can continue to access the assistance they require amid rising living expenses.
By familiarizing yourself with the eligibility requirements, understanding how to calculate your potential benefits, and knowing when to expect payments, you can maximize the advantages of this important benefit.
Benefit Type | Child Age | Annual Maximum Amount | Monthly Maximum Amount |
---|---|---|---|
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Under 6 years old | Up to $7,787 | $648.91 |
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | 6 to 17 years old | Up to $6,570 | $547.50 |
Disability Supplement | All eligible children | Up to $3,322 | $276.83 |
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
Launched in 2016, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a monthly tax-free payment designed to assist families with the expenses of raising children. The amount received by families varies based on several factors, including income level, the number of children in the household, and whether any child is eligible for disability benefits.
In 2024, families can receive a maximum annual payment of $7,787 for each child under 6 years old, while those with children aged 6 to 17 can receive up to $6,570 per year. These figures reflect a 4.7% increase from 2023, which has been implemented to help families cope with inflation and the escalating cost of living in Canada.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Program | Canada Child Benefit (CCB) |
Benefit Year | July 2024 – June 2025 |
Maximum Benefit for Children < 6 | Up to $7,787 per year ($648.91 per month) |
Maximum Benefit for Children 6-17 | Up to $6,570 per year ($547.50 per month) |
Eligibility | Canadian residents responsible for children under 18; income-based eligibility. |
Application Process | Automatic upon birth registration or via CRA account or Form RC66. |
Income Threshold | Maximum benefit for income ≤ $36,502; reduction starts above this threshold. |
Inflation Adjustment | Indexed annually to inflation since 2018 to keep up with the cost of living. |
Additional Benefits | Child Disability Benefit (up to $3,322/year per child with a disability). |
Payment Dates (2024) | Monthly payments, key dates include: Jan 19, Feb 20, Mar 20, Apr 19, etc., up to Dec 13, 2024. |
Purpose | Helps low- to middle-income families with the cost of raising children, reduces child poverty. |
How Does the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Work?
CCB payments are issued monthly, typically by the 20th of each month. The amount a family receives is determined by their adjusted family net income (AFNI) from the previous year.
For example, CCB payments for the period from July 2024 to June 2025 will be based on the net income reported in the 2023 tax return.
- For families earning less than $36,502 annually:
These families qualify for the maximum benefit amount per child. As income rises above this threshold, payments are gradually reduced. - For families with an income between $36,502 and $79,087:
CCB payments decrease by 13.5% for each dollar earned over $36,502. For instance, if a family’s net income is $60,000, the benefit would be reduced by approximately $3,172. - For families earning more than $79,087:
Payments are further reduced by 5.7% on income exceeding $79,087.
CCB Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the CCB, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of a child under 18 years old.
- You must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- You or your spouse/common-law partner must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or have valid temporary resident status in Canada for at least 18 months.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) of $6,570 to $7,787 in 2024
Applying for the CCB is a simple process. For new parents, registering your child’s birth with your province or territory usually initiates automatic registration for the benefit.
Alternatively, you can apply online through your CRA account or by completing Form RC66, which should be submitted to the CRA along with supporting documents, such as a birth certificate.
Newcomers to Canada can also apply for the CCB by providing proof of their status in Canada and filing their income tax returns.
CCB Payment Dates in 2024
Knowing when to expect your CCB payments is essential. 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 you miss a payment, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recommends waiting five business days before reaching out to them to resolve the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How is the CCB calculated?
The CCB is determined based on your adjusted family net income from the previous tax year. The benefit increases with the number of children you have, but it gradually decreases as your income rises. - What happens if my financial situation changes?
If your family’s income decreases significantly, you may qualify for higher payments. It’s important to file your tax returns each year to ensure your CCB payments are adjusted accurately.