As 2025 begins, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will roll out fresh payments to help Canadians, including newcomers and temporary residents, manage the rising cost of living. These payments come through five critical benefit programs designed to provide financial relief to eligible individuals and families.
Key CRA Benefit Programs Starting January 2025
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) offers monthly, tax-free payments to families with children under 18, helping to ease the financial burden of child-rearing.
Eligibility for the CCB:
- Temporary residents must live in Canada for at least 18 consecutive months with a valid permit during the 19th month.
- Newcomers can apply after settling in Canada.
Payment Overview:
- Families with children under six years old can receive up to $7,786.92 annually.
- Families with children aged 6-17 can receive up to $6,570 annually.
- Payments reduce as family income surpasses $36,502.
Application Process:
- Newcomers can apply using Form RC66, either online or by mail.
Upcoming CCB Payment Dates:
- January 20, February 19, and March 18, 2025.
GST/HST Credit
Designed to offset the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), this credit supports low- and moderate-income households.
Payment Details:
- Individuals can receive up to $519 annually.
- Couples may receive up to $680 annually, with an additional $179 per child under 19.
Automatic Eligibility:
- Canadian residents, including temporary residents, qualify when they file their taxes.
GST/HST Credit Payment Dates:
- January 3, April 4, and July 5, 2025.
Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB)
The ACWB encourages workforce participation among low-income individuals and families through quarterly refundable tax credits.
Eligibility for ACWB:
- Residency and income thresholds depend on the applicant’s province and family size.
Payment Breakdown:
- Individuals can receive up to $1,518 annually.
- Families are eligible for up to $2,616 annually.
Payment Dates for ACWB:
- January 10, April 11, and July 12, 2025.
Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR)
Previously called the Climate Action Incentive Payment, this rebate helps residents in specific provinces manage costs from federal pollution pricing. Eligible provinces include Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario.
Annual Payments by Province:
- Alberta families: Up to $1,544
- Ontario families: Up to $976
- Additional support is available for rural or small-community residents.
CCR Payment Dates:
- January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15, 2025.
Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
The Ontario Trillium Benefit combines multiple credits to assist low- to moderate-income Ontarians, including the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, the Ontario Sales Tax Credit, and the Northern Ontario Energy Credit.
Eligibility for OTB:
- Applicants must reside in Ontario and file their 2023 tax return.
- Temporary residents who meet residency requirements may also qualify.
Annual Payment Maximum:
- Up to $1,013 per household.
OTB Payment Date:
- January 10, 2025.
How Temporary Residents and Newcomers Can Access Benefits
Temporary residents, including international students and work permit holders, and newcomers may qualify for these programs by meeting specific residency and income criteria.
Steps to Apply for CRA Benefits:
- Register for a CRA My Account.
- File your taxes to establish eligibility.
- Submit required forms, such as Form RC66 for the Canada Child Benefit.
- Provide proof of residency, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
January 2025 CRA Payment Schedule at a Glance
- GST/HST Credit: January 3, 2025
- Ontario Trillium Benefit: January 10, 2025
- Advanced Canada Workers Benefit: January 10, 2025
- Canada Carbon Rebate: January 15, 2025
- Canada Child Benefit: January 20, 2025
