Families across Canada have something new to smile about in 2025—a game-changing benefit called the Canada Family Benefit (CFB), delivering up to $445 per child each month.
Stacked with existing support like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR), this trio of payments is designed to help families breathe easier as costs climb.
Whether you’re a parent or a financial pro advising clients, this guide breaks everything down in plain, friendly language.
Table of Contents
Overview
Let’s start with the big picture: In 2025, the government’s layered benefits system is offering real cash flow help for Canadian families. CFB is the new kid on the block, but it plays well with CCB and CCR. Think of it like adding a bonus booster to your financial toolkit.
Here’s a quick snapshot:
Benefit | Monthly/Yearly | Start/Key Dates |
---|---|---|
CFB | Up to $445/month ($5,340/year) | Started Jan 2025 – Monthly (CRA My Account) |
CCB | $648.91 (<6) / $547.50 (6–17) | Monthly on 20th (adjusted for holidays) |
CCR | Varies by province | Jan 15 & Apr 22, 2025 (file by Apr 2) |
CFB
CFB is the latest move by the government to keep pace with inflation and the high cost of raising children. It’s separate from CCB and doesn’t reduce your eligibility for other programs.
Who gets it?
If you already get the CCB, chances are you’ll get CFB too—no new paperwork needed. As long as you’re a Canadian resident responsible for a child under 18, you’re likely covered.
How to apply:
CFB is mostly automatic. Just make sure your CRA My Account is active and your tax return is filed. If you’re new or missed something, apply through the CRA portal or by mailing Form RC66.
CCB
The CCB hasn’t gone anywhere—it’s still a solid monthly tax-free payment for eligible families.
What do you get?
- Under 6 years: $648.91/month
- Ages 6–17: $547.50/month
The amount adjusts based on your income, so your 2024 tax return is key.
How to apply:
- Through birth registration at the hospital (fastest)
- CRA My Account online
- By mailing the RC66 form
Watch out for timelines—it can take up to 11 weeks if you apply by mail.
CCR
The Canada Carbon Rebate helps offset the impact of federal carbon pricing on families. While smaller than CFB or CCB, it’s a useful extra bump—especially in provinces with higher heating or fuel costs.
Key dates:
- Jan 15, 2025 – First payment
- Apr 22, 2025 – Final full payment
Deadline: You must file your 2024 tax return by April 2, 2025 to qualify on time.
Extras
If your child has a disability, you might qualify for up to $276.83/month extra. This adds on top of CCB/CFB. Just file Form T2201 and wait for CRA approval.
Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
For low-income families and single parents, CWB can add up to $2,450 a year. It’s income-tested, so accurate tax returns are essential.
Provincial Benefits
Don’t forget bonuses like BC’s Family Benefit or Ontario’s Child Benefit. These are built into your CCB payments if you’re eligible—no extra application needed.
Mistakes
Small missteps can delay or cut off your benefits. Here’s how to stay sharp:
- Wrong marital status → update it immediately with CRA
- Shared custody? Both parents must file taxes
- Moved provinces? Update your address or you’ll get the wrong provincial rate
- Missed CRA mail? Check your CRA My Account weekly
Newcomers
Just arrived in Canada? You’re still eligible once you file your taxes and provide your:
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Proof of birth
- Proof of residency
CRA also has multilingual services to help get you started.
Steps
Want to make sure you’re getting everything you’re owed? Follow this checklist:
- File your 2024 taxes by April 2, 2025
- Apply for benefits via CRA My Account or hospital birth registration
- Submit Form T2201 if your child has a disability
- Set up direct deposit in CRA
- Track payments through CRA My Account
- Report family changes ASAP (marital status, custody, address)
- Use CRA’s benefit calculators for forecasts
CFB and its companion benefits offer a solid support structure for families managing life’s growing costs. Just stay organized, file taxes early, and double-check your CRA details. With this setup, 2025 could be a lot less stressful for you—and your wallet.
FAQs
How much is CFB monthly?
Up to $445 per eligible child each month.
Do I need to apply for CFB?
Not if you already receive the CCB—CFB is automatic.
When is the CCR deadline?
File your 2024 taxes by April 2, 2025 to qualify on time.
What is the CCB amount in 2025?
$648.91 for kids under 6, $547.50 for ages 6–17.
Can newcomers get these benefits?
Yes, if they file taxes and show residency proof.