Parents across Canada should keep an eye on their bank accounts — the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment for October 2025 is arriving soon.
For many families, this tax-free payment can total up to $1,200, depending on income, number of children, and available top-ups. Here’s everything you need to know about payment dates, eligibility, and benefit amounts.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment from the federal government designed to help families manage the cost of raising children. Introduced in 2016, it supports parents with expenses like child care, groceries, and education.
The payment amount varies depending on several factors:
- Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI)
- Number and ages of children
- Eligibility for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
- Provincial or territorial top-ups
When Will Families Get Paid in October 2025?
The Canada Child Benefit is paid monthly, usually on the 20th day of each month. When that date falls on a weekend or holiday, families receive their payment on the previous business day.
For October 2025:
- Payment Date: Monday, October 20, 2025
- Upcoming Dates: November 20, 2025, and December 12, 2025
Payments are made directly to the parent or guardian’s registered bank account through direct deposit.
How Much Will You Receive?
In 2025, the CCB rates were increased by 2.7% to reflect inflation. The updated monthly maximums are as follows:
Category | Monthly Maximum (2025–26) |
---|---|
Child under age 6 | $666.41 per child |
Child aged 6–17 | $562.33 per child |
Child Disability Benefit | $284.25 extra per month |
Income threshold for full benefit | $37,487 (2024 income) |
Families earning under this threshold qualify for the full benefit. Above this amount, payments gradually decrease based on income and number of children.
Provincial and territorial top-ups — available in some regions like Ontario, B.C., and Nova Scotia — can add hundreds more per child each month, bringing the total benefit closer to $1,200 or more for larger families.
Who Is Eligible for the CCB?
To receive the Canada Child Benefit, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- Be the primary caregiver of a child under 18.
- File an annual tax return, even with zero income.
- Have legal status (citizen, permanent resident, protected person, registered under the Indian Act, or eligible temporary resident).
- Live with the child and make primary care decisions.
In cases of shared custody, both parents may receive 50% of the benefit each month.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
The easiest time to apply is when registering your child’s birth, as many provinces allow automatic registration with the Canada Revenue Agency. Alternatively, families can apply by:
- Signing in to CRA My Account and selecting “Apply for Child Benefits.”
- Completing Form RC66 and mailing it to the local tax centre.
To continue receiving payments, both parents (if applicable) must file their taxes annually. Missing tax returns may lead to delayed or stopped benefits.
Canada Child Benefit Overview
Detail | October 2025 Payment |
---|---|
Payment Date | October 20, 2025 |
Under 6 Rate | $666.41/month |
6–17 Rate | $562.33/month |
Disability Benefit | $284.25/month extra |
Typical Total (with top-ups) | Up to $1,200+ |
Taxable? | No – tax-free |
Payment Type | Direct Deposit or Cheque |
The October 2025 Canada Child Benefit brings another meaningful financial boost to millions of Canadian families. With payments arriving on October 20, households can expect up to $1,200 or more depending on income, child age, and regional supplements.
This tax-free benefit remains one of the federal government’s most significant supports for families, helping parents across the country manage everyday costs with greater stability.
FAQs
Why didn’t I receive my CCB payment on time?
If your payment is delayed, it could be due to late tax filing, bank account changes, or incomplete information in your CRA profile.
Can I get the CCB retroactively?
Yes. If you qualify but didn’t apply earlier, you may receive retroactive payments for previous months once your application is approved.
Do I need to report the CCB on my taxes?
No. The Canada Child Benefit is tax-free and doesn’t count as income for your tax return.