The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is back in focus this year with a one-time advance payment of up to $566 issued in May 2025. If you’re a low-income worker, this refundable tax credit from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) could ease your monthly financial pressures.
Whether you’re single, have a family, or live with a disability, CWB has tailored support for you. Let’s break down what it offers, who’s eligible, how much you could get, and how to apply.
Table of Contents
Overview
The CWB is a federal benefit program meant to supplement the income of modest-earning Canadians. Unlike non-refundable tax credits, this one pays out even if you don’t owe taxes.
That means eligible workers can receive the money as a direct deposit, making it a practical solution for everyday expenses.
In 2025, the program offers the following:
- up to $1,428 for single workers
- up to $2,461 for families
- an additional $737 disability supplement
- up to $566 in advance payment, issued in May
Eligibility
Here’s who qualifies for the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025:
Age
- Must be 19 or older by May 31 of the tax year
- Or live with a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child
- Must reside in Canada for the full tax year
Income thresholds
- Single individuals: net income must be less than $33,015
- Families: net income must be below $43,212
Who is not eligible
- Full-time students (unless supporting dependents)
- Those incarcerated for 90 or more days in the year
- Individuals whose income does not qualify as earned income under CRA rules
How to apply
Getting your CWB and the May 2025 advance payment is simple if you follow these steps:
File your taxes
You must file your 2024 tax return and complete Schedule 6, which calculates your CWB eligibility—even if you had no taxable income.
Request advance payments
To get the May advance payment:
- Fill out Form RC201
- Apply through your CRA My Account (the fastest method)
- Or mail the completed form to CRA
This form helps estimate your yearly entitlement and sets up scheduled payments throughout the year.
Keep your information updated
Let the CRA know immediately if you:
- Get married or divorced
- Add or remove dependents
- Change your income significantly
Outdated details can result in incorrect payments or delays.
Payment schedule
Here’s when the advance CWB payments are scheduled for 2025:
| Payment date | Description |
|---|---|
| January 10, 2025 | Advance installment |
| May 10, 2025 | Advance installment |
| July 11, 2025 | Advance installment |
These payments are based on your previous year’s return, so early tax filing is crucial.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| What is the CWB | Refundable tax credit for low-income earners |
| Max annual amount | $1,428 (single), $2,461 (family) |
| Disability supplement | Additional $737 |
| Age requirement | 19+ or living with dependent or spouse |
| Income threshold | Under $33,015 (single) or $43,212 (family) |
| Advance payment form | Form RC201 |
| CRA tools | CRA My Account, Schedule 6, CWB estimator |
Tips
To avoid missing out or delaying payments, keep these things in mind:
- Double-check all forms before submitting
- File taxes early and complete Schedule 6
- Monitor your CRA My Account for payment updates
- Keep proof of submission in case you need to follow up
Whether you’re juggling rent, groceries, or bills, the CWB can help stabilize your finances. It’s especially useful in rising inflation times where every bit counts.
The May 2025 $566 CWB advance payment offers timely relief for eligible workers across Canada. If you meet the income criteria and file your taxes properly, this program can offer real, noticeable help.
Don’t miss the opportunity—file early, check your eligibility, and apply for advance payments through CRA My Account or Form RC201. It’s your money—make sure you claim it.
FAQs
How much is the May 2025 CWB payment?
Up to $566 as an advance payment.
Do I need to owe taxes to qualify?
No, CWB is refundable—you can receive it even with zero tax.
Who qualifies for the CWB?
Low-income workers over 19 with income below CRA thresholds.
What form is needed for advance CWB?
Form RC201 is used for advance payment requests.
When are CWB payments issued in 2025?
January 10, May 10, and July 11, 2025.
