To ease the burden of rising living costs, the Canadian government has introduced a new Canada Family Benefit (CFB) for 2025, providing $445 monthly payments to eligible families with children under 18.
This initiative enhances existing child support programs and plays a key role in reducing child poverty and supporting household affordability.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Canada Family Benefit 2025, including payment dates, eligibility criteria, and the claim process.
Overview of the $445 Canada Family Benefit
The CFB is a monthly financial support of $445, launching in May 2025, and will be delivered to Canadian families meeting specific income and residency criteria. It is especially geared toward lower-income households.
Benefit Summary
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Amount | $445 |
| Start Date | May 20, 2025 |
| Frequency | Monthly (20th of each month) |
| Target Group | Families with children under 18 |
| Eligibility | Based on income, residency, and dependent status |
| Distribution | Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
| Administered by | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
When Will the Payments Be Made?
CFB payments will be issued monthly, starting on May 20, 2025. If the 20th falls on a weekend or public holiday, payment will be made on the nearest business day.
Canada Family Benefit Payment Dates for 2025
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | 20 January 2025 |
| February | 20 February 2025 |
| March | 20 March 2025 |
| April | 20 April 2025 |
| May | 20 May 2025 |
| June | 20 June 2025 |
| July | 20 July 2025 |
| August | 20 August 2025 |
| September | 20 September 2025 |
| October | 20 October 2025 |
| November | 20 November 2025 |
| December | 20 December 2025 |
Note: Ensure your CRA direct deposit is set up to receive funds on time.
Eligibility Criteria for the CFB
To receive the Canada Family Benefit, you must meet the following conditions:
1. Residency
- Must be a resident of Canada.
- Lived in Canada for at least 183 days in a calendar year.
2. Dependent Children
- Must have one or more children under 18 in your care.
3. Income Threshold
- Households earning $35,000 or less annually may qualify for the full $445/month.
- Higher-income households may receive reduced payments depending on their income.
4. Tax Filing
- Must file your T1 Income Tax Return annually to remain eligible.
How to Apply for the Canada Family Benefit
Step 1: File Your Taxes
Even with no income, file your annual tax return to update your family’s financial data with the CRA.
Step 2: Register for Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- CFB is linked with the CCB.
- Apply via your CRA My Account or submit the RC66 form.
Step 3: Update Family Information
- Keep CRA informed of any changes to marital status, number of children, or address.
Step 4: Set Up Direct Deposit
- Use CRA My Account to add or update banking details for faster, secure payments.
Step 5: Monitor and Track Payments
- Track your payments online and keep detailed records for reference or corrections.
The $445 Canada Family Benefit is a timely and impactful measure to support families with children, especially amid rising inflation and economic uncertainty.
With payments beginning in May 2025, it is critical that eligible families file taxes, register for CCB, and update CRA information promptly.
This benefit is more than financial assistance—it’s a step toward building resilient families and communities across Canada.
FAQs
When do CFB payments start?
Payments begin on May 20, 2025, and continue monthly on the 20th.
Who is eligible for the full $445 monthly amount?
Families earning $35,000 or less annually with children under 18 may qualify for the full amount.
How do I apply for the Canada Family Benefit?
File your taxes, register for Canada Child Benefit, and update your details through the CRA My Account.