Raising kids is expensive, but the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is here to help. This tax-free monthly payment supports families with children under 18, offering extra financial relief. With inflation pushing living costs higher, the government increased the CCB for 2024, making it even more valuable. Here’s everything you need to know.
Payments
In July 2024, the CCB saw a much-needed increase to assist families grappling with the rising cost of living. Here’s what the updated payments look like:
| Age Group | Maximum Monthly Payment | Annual Payment | Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Children under 6 | $648.91 | Up to $7,786.92 | 4.7% |
| Children aged 6–17 | $547.50 | Up to $6,570.00 | 4.7% |
The payments are recalculated annually based on inflation and your family’s net income to ensure they stay relevant to current economic conditions.
Eligibility
Think you might qualify for the CCB? Here’s what you need:
- Residency: You must live in Canada with at least one child under 18.
- Primary Caregiver: You or your partner must be the primary caregiver for the child.
- Status: Applicants need to be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or meet specific criteria for temporary residents or Indigenous individuals.
- Income-Based: The payment is based on your family’s Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) as reported on the prior year’s tax return.
- Special Cases: Foster children may qualify if Children’s Special Allowances (CSA) aren’t payable.
If you meet these requirements, you’re one step closer to receiving support.
Claiming
Applying for the CCB is simple and can be done in several ways:
- At Birth Registration: When registering your child’s birth at the hospital, you can often enroll in the CCB right there.
- Online: Use your Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) account to submit an application.
- Paper Application: Download, complete, and mail the form to the CRA.
After approval, payments are sent via direct deposit or cheque. Be sure to update your CRA records if your details change—keeping your info current avoids interruptions.
Additional Support
Beyond the CCB, the government is working to make childcare more affordable with its $10-a-day childcare initiative. This program, expected to roll out fully by 2025–26, will drastically reduce daycare costs, helping parents save and enabling more participation in the workforce.
Together, these measures—enhanced CCB payments and affordable childcare—reflect a solid commitment to helping Canadian families thrive financially and provide kids with a great start in life.
The enhanced Canada Child Benefit for 2024 is a meaningful step toward helping families keep pace with economic challenges. Paired with affordable childcare plans, it’s a win-win for parents and children alike. If you haven’t applied yet, now’s the perfect time to get started.
FAQs
What is the Canada Child Benefit?
The Canada Child Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment for families with children under 18.
How are CCB payments calculated?
Payments are based on family net income and adjusted annually for inflation.
Who can apply for the CCB?
Primary caregivers who meet Canadian residency and citizenship criteria.
What are the new maximum CCB amounts?
$648.91 monthly for children under 6; $547.50 for ages 6–17.
How do I apply for the CCB?
You can apply online, during birth registration, or by submitting a paper form.
