As the new year approaches, Canadians can look forward to a host of government benefits managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). From monthly child benefits and retirement pensions to quarterly tax credits, these programs are designed to provide financial relief throughout the year.
This guide explores the key CRA programs for 2025, including eligibility, payment amounts, and schedules. Whether you’re a parent, retiree, or worker, there’s likely a program that suits your needs.
GST/HST Credit
A tax-free quarterly payment, the GST/HST Credit assists individuals and families with low to modest incomes in recovering some of the taxes they’ve paid. Additional provincial and territorial benefits may also be included.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be at least 19 years old (exceptions apply for younger individuals with dependents or partners).
- Must reside in Canada for tax purposes.
- Income thresholds vary by family size, ranging from $54,704 to $72,244 for the 2023 tax year.
- Payment Amounts:
- For July 2024 to June 2025: Up to $519 for singles, $680 for couples, and $179 per child.
- For July 2025 to June 2026: Increased to $533 for singles, $698 for couples, and $184 per child.
- 2025 Payment Dates:QuarterDateQ1January 3Q2April 4Q3July 4Q4October 3
Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB)
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit for low-income workers. Through the ACWB program, recipients can receive up to 50% of their annual benefit in advance.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Income below provincial/territorial thresholds ($23,000–$70,000).
- Must be a Canadian resident throughout the year.
- Aged 19 or older or living with a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child.
- Payment Amounts:
- July 2024 to June 2025: Up to $1,518 (singles) and $2,616 (families). Disability supplement: $784.
- July 2025 to June 2026: Increased to $1,590 (singles) and $2,739 (families). Disability supplement: $821.
- 2025 Payment Dates: QuarterDate Q1January 10Q3July 11Q4October 10
Canada Carbon Rebate
Previously known as the Climate Action Incentive Payment, the Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR) offsets federal pollution pricing costs through quarterly tax-free payments.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Must reside in eligible provinces, such as Alberta, Ontario, and Saskatchewan.
- Age 19+ or exceptions for younger dependents or partners.
- Payment Amounts:
- Ontario: Up to $700 (singles), $840 (couples), and $140 per child.
- Alberta: Up to $1,125 (singles), $1,350 (couples), and $225 per child.
- Rural residents receive an additional 20% supplement.
- 2025 Payment Dates: Quarter DateQ1January 15Q2April 15Q3July 15Q4October 15
Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB)
Funded by Alberta’s government, the ACFB supports families with children under 18. It consists of a base benefit and a working component for families earning at least $2,760 annually.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Alberta residency.
- Family income below $45,285 for the base benefit.
- Payment Amounts: ChildrenMax Benefit1$2,2212$3,6413$4,7864+$5,656
- 2025 Payment Dates: QuarterDateQ1February 27Q2May 27Q3August 27Q4November 27
Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
The OTB assists Ontario residents with energy, property, and sales tax costs through monthly payments.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Must qualify for at least one of the following credits: Northern Ontario Energy Credit, Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, or Ontario Sales Tax Credit.
- Payment Amounts:
- NOEC: Up to $180 (singles), $277 (families).
- OEPTC: Up to $1,421 (seniors).
- OSTC: Up to $360 (per person).
- 2025 Payment Dates: Payments occur monthly from January 10 to December 10.
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
The CCB provides tax-free monthly payments to help families with children under 18.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Must reside in Canada and be the primary caregiver for the child.
- Family income below $36,502 to receive the maximum benefit.
- Payment Amounts: Child Age2024–20252025–2026Under 6$7,787$7,9976–17$6,570$6,748
- 2025 Payment Dates: Monthly payments start on January 20 and continue through December 12.
FAQs
How often are CRA benefits paid?
Payment schedules vary by program. Some are monthly (e.g., CCB), while others are quarterly (e.g., GST/HST Credit).
Can eligibility criteria vary by province?
Yes, many programs have province-specific thresholds or amounts, such as the Alberta Child and Family Benefit.
What should I do if I miss a payment?
Contact the CRA immediately to investigate and resolve the issue.
