Canada is gearing up to deliver a significant boost to the Canada Child Benefit (CCB): a proposed $1,200 top-up per child beginning in October 2025.
Coupled with the already increased base payments for 2025–26, this enhancement would provide families with an unbeatable financial uplift.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know—from who qualifies and how much you’ll get, to a breakdown of payment changes and what this means for your household.
What’s New for 2025–26? Baseline CCB Amounts
For the benefit year July 2025 to June 2026, the CCB has been adjusted upward to reflect inflation:
- Children under 6 years: up to $7,997/year (~$666.41/month)
- Children aged 6–17: up to $6,748/year (~$562.33/month)
These updated amounts provide a stronger foundation for child support in 2025–26.
The $1,200 Proposed Top-Up
The proposed enhancement—currently before Parliament—would add a $1,200 boost per eligible child, starting in October 2025.
It’s a one-time top-up, layered on top of the regular monthly CCB.
How it might work:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-Up Amount | $1,200 per child (one-time) |
| Start Date | October 2025, if passed |
| Who Qualifies | Families already receiving CCB for children under 18 |
| Payment Method | Integrated into CCB payments—no separate application |
| Purpose | Help families manage inflation, childcare, groceries, living cost. |
Combined Impact- 2025–26 CCB plus Proposed Top-Up
Let’s visualize what a family could receive if the proposal becomes law:
| Who | Base CCB | Proposed $1,200 Top-Up | Total Annual per Child |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child under 6 years | $7,997 | $1,200 | $9,197 (~$766/month) |
| Child aged 6–17 years | $6,748 | $1,200 | $7,948 (~$662/month) |
This addition would deliver meaningful support—especially for families with multiple children.
Who Qualifies — and How It Works
You’re eligible for the proposed $1,200 top-up if you already get CCB and meet the usual qualification criteria:
- You’re a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- You have children under 18 in your care
- You’ve filed your 2024 income tax return
- Your adjusted family net income (AFNI) falls within CRA’s eligibility thresholds
Low- and middle-income families would receive the full top-up, while higher-income households may receive a reduced amount—or none at all—depending on income thresholds.
No brand-new paperwork: the CRA would automatically integrate the top-up into your CCB payments.
Timeline- From Proposal to Payout
Here’s what to expect if the proposal moves forward:
- July 2025 – Proposal tabled in Parliament
- August 2025 – Final Parliamentary vote expected
- September 2025 – CRA sends notification letters to eligible families
- October 2025 – First top-up payments begin (integrated into regular CCB disbursements)
Families must ensure their 2024 taxes are filed on time to avoid delays.
What This Means for Canadian Families
- Stronger support: The extra $1,200 per child gives a big boost to household budgets.
- Inflation relief: As prices for groceries, housing, and childcare soar, this top-up provides timely help.
- No extra hassle: It’s automatic for existing CCB recipients.
- Equitable targeting: Designed so lower-income families get the full benefit.
Need to Do Anything? A Quick Checklist
- Ensure your 2024 income tax return is filed and up to date.
- Confirm your personal & direct deposit info with CRA.
- Watch for CRA notices in September 2025 about your benefit adjustments.
- Keep your CCB claim active and report any changes (e.g., custody or income changes) promptly.
If approved, the October 2025 $1,200 CCB top-up could be one of the most impactful supports in recent memory—on top of substantial base increases already in place.
Combining the inflation-adjusted baseline and this one-time boost, families could receive up to $9,197 per child under 6, offering substantial relief when it’s most needed.
Just stay tax-compliant and CRA-ready to ensure you don’t miss out on your family’s share.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the $1,200 CCB top-up?
No. Families already receiving the regular CCB for eligible children will receive it automatically if the proposal passes.
When will I receive the top-up?
Payments would begin in October 2025, following CRA notifications sent in September.
Will this affect my existing CCB or other benefits?
No. The top-up complements your current CCB; it’s also tax-free and shouldn’t impact other government benefits.