The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) continues to provide vital support to low- and moderate-income Canadians in 2025. With rising inflation and a higher cost of living, this refundable tax credit offers direct financial assistance to working individuals and families—especially those approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
If you’ve filed your 2024 tax return, your advance payments may have already begun landing in your bank account. Here’s a full breakdown of the new rates, eligibility, and what to expect in the months ahead.
Table of Contents
Overview
The Canada Workers Benefit has two main components:
- Basic amount – Based on your income and household size
- Disability supplement – For those approved under the Disability Tax Credit
Starting in 2022, up to 50% of the annual benefit is issued in advance over three instalments: July, October, and January. The other half comes with your tax refund.
July
The July 2025 payment includes new indexed amounts to reflect inflation and rising living costs. Some provinces—like Quebec, Alberta, and Nunavut—have seen major increases. Depending on your province, income, and DTC status, you could receive a direct deposit of up to $1,238.99.
Breakdown
Here’s how the July 2025 CWB advance payments stack up by region:
| Region | Single (No DTC) | Family (No DTC) | Max (With DTC x2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $265 | $456.50 | $730.17 |
| Alberta | $284 | $425.17 | $698.83 |
| Nunavut | $263 | $395.17 | $699.17 |
| Quebec | $617.56 | $963.09 (No kids) | $1,238.99 (Couple w/ DTC) |
These amounts are based on 2024 income and tax filing details. Payments are automatic if you’re eligible.
Eligibility
To qualify for CWB advance payments in 2025, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident throughout 2024
- Be at least 19 years old by December 31, 2024 (or live with a spouse or child)
- Have earned employment or self-employment income
- File your 2024 tax return before November 1, 2025
The CRA automatically assesses your eligibility—no separate application is needed.
Income
As your income increases, your benefit gradually decreases. Here are the updated 2025 phase-out ranges:
Basic Benefit Phase-Outs:
| Region | Singles | Families |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $26,149 – $36,749 | $29,833 – $48,093 |
| Alberta | $25,472 – $36,832 | $31,911 – $48,918 |
| Nunavut | $26,127 – $65,577 | $35,957 – $65,595 |
| Quebec | $13,829 – $32,356 | $21,456 – $50,150 |
Disability Supplement Phase-Outs:
| Region | Singles (Ends At) | Families (Ends At) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $42,222 | $59,038 |
| Alberta | $42,305 | $59,865 |
| Nunavut | $73,195 | $80,777 |
| Quebec | $36,495 | $58,427 |
To receive the supplement, you must be approved for the DTC and fall within these income thresholds.
Schedule
If your 2024 tax return was filed on time and you met the criteria, your first advance payment was made on July 11, 2025. The remaining payments will be issued on:
- October 2025
- January 2026
The rest of your benefit will be added to your 2025 tax refund, processed in spring 2026.
CRA
To avoid delays or issues, make sure your CRA My Account is fully updated with:
- Correct direct deposit info
- Accurate mailing address
- Confirmation of your DTC status (if applicable)
Staying current ensures you won’t miss a payment.
Importance
The CWB is more than just a tax credit—it’s a critical support program during tough economic times. As Canadians face higher prices on housing, food, and transportation, the CWB helps make life more affordable for working individuals and families.
Benefits
- Supports low-wage earners
- Helps manage inflation-related costs
- Offers a disability top-up
- Paid in three advance instalments
- No application required—just file taxes
The Canada Workers Benefit continues to make a big difference in 2025, offering meaningful relief to working Canadians.
With bigger payments, expanded thresholds, and an automatic delivery system, this credit ensures that work continues to pay—even during challenging times.
File your tax return, update your CRA details, and take advantage of every dollar available.
FAQs
When was the first CWB payment in 2025?
It was issued on July 11, 2025.
Do I need to apply for the CWB?
No, it’s automatically assessed through your tax return.
How do I qualify for the disability supplement?
You must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit.
How many CWB advance payments are there?
Three—July, October, and January.
Is the CWB payment taxable?
No, the Canada Workers Benefit is non-taxable.
