The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a critical financial support system for Canadian families. Designed to assist with the cost of raising children, the CCB is a tax-free monthly payment administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). With the cost of living rising across the country, timely and accurate CCB payments are more important than ever for millions of families relying on this assistance.
In this comprehensive article, we break down the latest payment dates from September to December 2025, explain how the CCB works, review eligibility requirements, and provide key tips to ensure you receive your benefit on time. Whether you’re a new parent or a seasoned recipient of the CCB, this guide covers everything you need to know for the remainder of the year.
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a monthly financial support provided to eligible Canadian families to help with the cost of raising children under the age of 18. The amount of the CCB is based on several factors, including:
- The number of children in the household
- The ages of the children
- The family’s adjusted net income
- The eligibility status as determined by CRA
The program is designed to help low and middle-income families, and many families receive hundreds of dollars per month per child through this benefit.
Canada Child Benefit Payment Dates: September to December 2025
The CRA releases CCB payments monthly, typically on or around the 20th of each month. Below is the confirmed schedule for the remaining months of 2025:
| Month | CCB Payment Date |
|---|---|
| September 2025 | September 20, 2025 |
| October 2025 | October 18, 2025 |
| November 2025 | November 20, 2025 |
| December 2025 | December 19, 2025 |
Note: If your payment date falls on a weekend or holiday, your funds may be deposited the next business day.
How Much Will You Receive in CCB Payments?
The exact amount you receive from the Canada Child Benefit depends on:
- The number of children you have
- Their ages
- Your family’s income (as reported on your most recent tax return)
For the July 2025 to June 2026 benefit year, the maximum annual benefit amounts are estimated to be:
- $7,437 per child under 6 years
- $6,275 per child aged 6 to 17 years
These payments are split into monthly installments, meaning a family with two children under six could receive up to $1,239.50 per month.
Who Is Eligible for the Canada Child Benefit?
To be eligible for the CCB, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must live with the child and the child must be under 18 years of age.
- You must be primarily responsible for the upbringing of the child.
- You must be a:
- Canadian citizen
- Permanent resident
- Protected person
- Temporary resident who has lived in Canada for the previous 18 months with a valid permit
- You must file your annual tax return, even if you have no income, to continue receiving payments.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
If you’re a new parent or have recently moved to Canada, you can apply for the CCB through the following methods:
- Online via CRA’s My Account
- At birth registration, using the Automated Benefits Application
- Mailing a completed Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefits Application) and necessary documents
The CRA typically processes applications within 8 weeks.
When Will You Receive Your CCB?
Payments are made via:
- Direct Deposit: This is the fastest and most reliable method. Funds are deposited directly into your bank account on the scheduled date.
- Mail: If you haven’t signed up for direct deposit, the CRA will mail you a cheque, which may take longer to arrive.
You can view your upcoming payments and past payment history in your CRA My Account portal.
Why Did My CCB Amount Change?
CCB amounts may change throughout the year due to:
- Reassessment of income from a tax return
- A change in custody arrangements
- A change in the number of children in your care
- Moving to a new address or province
Always keep your CRA profile up to date to avoid delays or incorrect payment amounts.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you did not receive your CCB payment on the expected date, consider the following:
- Verify bank details on your CRA account
- Check if your tax return is filed and processed
- Allow at least 5 business days for late deposits
- Call the CRA at 1-800-387-1193 for unresolved issues
How to Check Your CCB Payment Status
To track your CCB payments, use the CRA My Account or the MyCRA mobile app. Here, you can:
- View upcoming payments
- Check payment history
- Update personal details
- Download CCB statements for tax purposes
Summary of Key Canada Child Benefit Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Canada Child Benefit (CCB) |
| Payment Type | Monthly, tax-free |
| Administered By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Eligibility | Canadian residents raising children under 18 |
| Max Annual Amount (2025) | $7,437 (under 6), $6,275 (6–17) |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
| Payment Dates (Sep–Dec 2025) | Sep 20, Oct 18, Nov 20, Dec 19 |
Conclusion
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) continues to be a vital financial resource for families across the country. With confirmed payment dates through December 2025, parents and guardians can plan their budgets and expenses with confidence. Ensuring you file your taxes, update your CRA account, and stay informed about eligibility rules can help avoid interruptions in your payments. Whether you’re receiving the maximum benefit or a partial amount based on income, the CCB plays a crucial role in supporting Canadian families in raising healthy and happy children.
FAQs
1. What happens if I miss a CCB payment date?
If you don’t receive your payment on the scheduled date, wait 5 business days. If it still hasn’t arrived, contact the CRA.
2. Do I need to reapply for the CCB every year?
No, but you and your spouse or common-law partner must file your tax returns annually to remain eligible.
3. Will the CCB increase in 2026?
Each July, the CCB is adjusted for inflation. The CRA will announce any increases ahead of the new benefit year.
4. Can shared custody affect the CCB amount?
Yes. If custody is shared equally, each parent may receive 50% of the benefit.
5. What if I have another child during the year?
You must update your information with the CRA by applying for the new child to be added to your benefits. This can be done online or by mail.