The Government of Canada has announced a significant enhancement to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) aimed at supporting part-time students aged 18 to 24.
Effective January 1, 2025, eligible part-time students with a disabled or deceased parent who contributed to the CPP will receive a monthly benefit to assist with educational expenses.
Enhanced Support for Part-Time Students
Previously, CPP children’s benefits were available only to full-time students. With the new amendment, part-time students can now receive financial assistance, amounting to 50% of the benefit provided to full-time students.
For the year 2025, this translates to a monthly flat rate of $150.89 for qualifying part-time students. To be eligible, students must meet a minimum school attendance threshold, ensuring that the support reaches those actively pursuing their education.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this benefit, part-time students must:
- Be between the ages of 18 and 24.
- Have a parent who is either disabled or deceased and who contributed to the CPP.
- Demonstrate enrollment in a recognized educational institution with at least part-time attendance.
This expansion aims to alleviate financial burdens and encourage continued education among young Canadians facing challenging family circumstances.
Projected Impact
The introduction of this benefit is expected to provide immediate assistance to approximately 6,712 beneficiaries in 2025.
By extending support to part-time students, the government acknowledges students’ diverse educational paths and the importance of flexibility in accessing financial aid.
Additional Canada Pension Plan Amendments
This change is part of a broader set of reforms resulting from the 2022–2024 CPP Triennial Review. Other amendments effective January 1, 2025, include:
- Death Benefit Top-Up: An increase in the death benefit for certain contributors to provide greater financial support to surviving families.
- Extended Eligibility for Disabled Contributor’s Child’s Benefit: Continuation of benefits for children even after the disabled parent reaches age 65, ensuring sustained support.
- Changes to Survivor’s Pension Entitlement: Ending entitlement to a survivor’s pension following a CPP credit split, aligning benefits with contributors’ current marital status.
These reforms reflect the government’s commitment to regularly assessing and updating the CPP to meet the evolving needs of Canadians.
| Benefit | Previous Provision | New Provision (Effective January 1, 2025) | Eligibility Criteria | Estimated Beneficiaries in 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part-Time Student Benefit | Not available | $150.89 monthly for eligible part-time students | Ages 18–24; parent disabled or deceased with CPP contributions; minimum school attendance | 6,712 |
| Death Benefit Top-Up | Standard flat rate | Increased amount for certain contributors | Determined by contributor’s CPP contributions | Data not specified |
| Disabled Contributor’s Child’s Benefit | Ceased when parent reached age 65 | Extended eligibility beyond parent’s age 65 | Child of a disabled contributor receiving CPP; age under 25; in full-time education | Data not specified |
| Survivor’s Pension Post Credit Split | Entitlement continued after CPP credit split | Entitlement ends following a CPP credit split | Surviving spouse or common-law partner; CPP credit split due to separation or divorce | Data not specified |
Conclusion
The Government of Canada’s introduction of the CPP benefit for part-time students signifies a progressive step toward inclusive support for all students, regardless of their enrollment status.
By addressing the financial challenges faced by young Canadians with disabled or deceased parents, these measures aim to foster educational attainment and provide a more secure future for the nation’s youth.
FAQs
1. What is the new CPP benefit for part-time students?
The new benefit provides eligible part-time students aged 18 to 24 with a monthly payment of $150.89, starting January 1, 2025. This is 50% of the amount paid to full-time students under the CPP children’s benefits.
2. Who qualifies for this benefit?
To qualify, students must be between 18 and 24 years old, have a parent who is disabled or deceased with contributions to the CPP, and meet a minimum school attendance threshold as part-time students.
3. How do I apply for the part-time student benefit?
Eligible students or their guardians should contact Service Canada to obtain the necessary application forms and provide proof of enrollment in a recognized educational institution.
