If you’re a low-income worker in Canada, 2025 could bring some financial relief. The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) offers up to $2,739 for eligible individuals and families, plus a $737 disability supplement for those who qualify.
It’s a refundable tax credit, meaning you can receive the money even if you don’t owe taxes. With payments spaced out during the year, this benefit helps make everyday expenses—like groceries, gas, and rent—more manageable.
Let’s break down everything you need to know to qualify, apply, and get the most from this valuable federal benefit.
Overview
Here’s a quick snapshot of the 2025 CWB:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Benefit | $2,739 for families, $1,518 for individuals |
| Disability Supplement | Up to $737 per eligible person |
| Eligibility | Low-income workers aged 19+ in Canada |
| Advance Payments | Jan 10, Jul 11, Oct 10, 2025 |
| Income Threshold (Phase-Out) | $24,975 (singles), $28,494 (families) |
| Application Method | File 2025 tax return + Schedule 6 |
| Official Tool | CRA CWB Estimator |
The CWB is designed to reward work, reduce poverty, and offer steady financial support to those who need it most.
What
The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit for low-income earners. That means you get the money even if you don’t owe any tax.
It has two main parts:
- Basic amount: For all eligible workers
- Disability supplement: For those who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
This benefit is especially useful for part-time workers, self-employed individuals, and those juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet.
Amount
How much you receive depends on your income, marital status, and whether you qualify for the disability supplement.
Here’s what you could get in 2025:
| Status | Maximum CWB | Disability Supplement |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $1,518 | $737 |
| Couple/Family | $2,739 | $737 (each if eligible) |
The benefit phases out once your income passes the following limits:
- Singles: Phase-out begins at $24,975
- Families: Phase-out begins at $28,494
Someone earning $23,000 may get close to the full benefit, while someone earning $30,000 might receive a reduced amount.
Dates
Advance payments let you receive up to 50% of your benefit before tax season.
| Payment Date | Advance Installment |
|---|---|
| January 10 | First payment |
| July 11 | Second payment |
| October 10 | Third payment |
The rest of your benefit comes as part of your tax refund in spring 2026 when you file your 2025 taxes.
To receive advance payments, you must have qualified for the CWB in 2024 and had your 2024 tax return assessed by November 1, 2024.
Eligibility
To qualify for the CWB, you must:
- Be at least 19 years old by December 31, 2025
- Be a Canadian resident all year
- Have earned working income (job or self-employment)
You don’t qualify if:
- You were a full-time student for more than 13 weeks (without a dependant)
- You were in prison for 90+ days
- You are a foreign diplomat or tax-exempt
For the disability supplement, you need:
- Eligibility for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- An approved Form T2201 on file with CRA
Both you and your spouse can claim the disability supplement if eligible.
Apply
Getting the benefit is simple:
- File your 2025 tax return.
Even if you owe no taxes, filing is required. - Complete Schedule 6.
This calculates your CWB amount. Most tax software includes it. - Submit your return.
Online via NETFILE, through tax software, or by paper. - Advance payments.
If CRA approved you in 2024, you’ll automatically receive advance payments in 2025.
Example
Let’s say Daniel and Priya live in Nova Scotia with one child.
- Daniel earns $18,500 as a delivery driver
- Priya earns $9,000 part-time
- Combined income: $27,500
They file taxes, complete Schedule 6, and qualify for the full $2,739 CWB.
CRA sends:
- $456 in January
- $456 in July
- $456 in October
The remaining amount arrives in their 2025 tax refund. They use it for essentials like groceries and childcare.
Tips
Here’s how to get the most from your CWB:
- Always file your taxes, even if you made very little
- Complete Form T2201 if applying for the disability supplement
- Keep CRA info updated—especially marital status and address
- Use CRA’s CWB calculator to estimate your payment
- Don’t assume you’re ineligible. If your income dropped, you may qualify now
Whether you’re a single worker, part of a family, or living with a disability, the Canada Workers Benefit is a powerful tool to help balance your budget and move forward with confidence.
FAQs
How much is the CWB in 2025?
Up to $2,739 for families and $1,518 for singles.
When are advance CWB payments sent?
January 10, July 11, and October 10, 2025.
Do I need to owe tax to get CWB?
No, CWB is refundable even if you owe nothing.
Can both spouses get the disability supplement?
Yes, if both are eligible for the Disability Tax Credit.
What form do I file for CWB?
File Schedule 6 with your tax return.
