Thinking about starting or expanding your family in 2025? Then you’ll want to be familiar with the Canada CRA Parental Benefits Payment. This government support helps reduce the financial stress of becoming a parent, offering two main programs: Employment Insurance (EI) maternity and parental leave, and the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
In this guide, we’ll break down everything in simple terms—who’s eligible, how much you can get, when payments arrive, and how to apply. Let’s make sense of it all so you can focus more on your baby and less on bureaucracy.
Table of Contents
Benefits
Canada’s parental benefits come in two major forms: EI maternity/parental benefits and the Canada Child Benefit. Each has unique eligibility rules, benefit amounts, and payment schedules.
Here’s a snapshot:
| Benefit Type | Eligibility | Max Benefit (2025) | Payment Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| EI Maternity | Biological mothers, 600 insurable work hours | Up to $695/week for 15 weeks | Weekly |
| EI Parental (Standard) | Parents with 600 insurable hours | Up to $695/week for 35 weeks (shared up to 40) | Weekly |
| EI Parental (Extended) | Same as above | Up to $417/week for 61 weeks (shared up to 69) | Weekly |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Parents/guardians of children under 18 | $7,787/year (under 6); $6,570/year (6–17) | Monthly |
Maternity
Maternity benefits are just for biological mothers and kick in as early as 12 weeks before the due date. You can get benefits for up to 15 weeks, at 55% of your average weekly earnings, capped at $695/week in 2025.
To Qualify:
- At least 600 insurable hours of work in the past year.
- To stop working or have your earnings drop by 40% or more.
- A valid medical certificate or proof of due date.
Pro tip? Start the application before your last day of work to avoid delays.
Parental
Parental benefits are available to both biological and adoptive parents, but you must choose one type: standard or extended.
Standard Parental Leave:
- Up to 40 weeks shared (maximum 35 weeks per parent)
- Pays 55% of average earnings, up to $695/week
Extended Parental Leave:
- Up to 69 weeks shared (maximum 61 weeks per parent)
- Pays 33% of earnings, up to $417/week
It’s a trade-off between a shorter leave with more money vs. a longer leave with less weekly income. Once you pick, you can’t switch—so plan wisely.
CCB
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a monthly, tax-free payment to help cover child-raising costs. It’s based on your income, number of kids, and their ages.
Eligibility:
- You live with and care for a child under 18
- You’re a Canadian tax resident
- You or your partner file taxes annually—even with no income
Payment Rates (2024–2025):
- $7,787/year per child under 6
- $6,570/year per child aged 6–17
Monthly Amounts:
- Approx. $648.91/month for kids under 6
- Approx. $547.50/month for kids aged 6–17
Schedule
Here are the 2025 monthly CCB payment dates so you can budget ahead:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | Jan 20 |
| February | Feb 20 |
| March | Mar 20 |
| April | Apr 17 |
| May | May 20 |
| June | Jun 20 |
| July | Jul 18 |
| August | Aug 20 |
| September | Sep 19 |
| October | Oct 20 |
| November | Nov 20 |
| December | Dec 12 |
Tips
Want to avoid delays and maximize your benefits? Follow these tips:
- Track your hours early to meet the 600-hour requirement
- Decide early between standard vs. extended leave
- Apply immediately after stopping work via Service Canada
- Use direct deposit for faster access
- File taxes every year, even with no income
You’ve got enough to think about with a new baby—don’t let benefits paperwork be one more headache.
Whether you’re giving birth or adopting, the Canada CRA Parental Benefits in 2025 can be a financial lifesaver. With flexible options and significant monthly support, they’re designed to make your parenting journey a little easier.
Just be sure to know your eligibility, apply on time, and make choices that best fit your family’s needs.
FAQs
How many hours do I need for EI?
You need 600 insurable hours in the last 52 weeks.
When do CCB payments come?
CCB payments are issued monthly, typically on the 20th.
Can both parents get EI benefits?
Yes, parental leave can be split between both parents.
Is the CCB taxable?
No, the Canada Child Benefit is completely tax-free.
How much is maternity leave in 2025?
Up to $695 per week for 15 weeks.
