As the cost of living continues to climb across Canada, the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) remains a critical support for millions of low-income workers. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this federal refundable tax credit puts money directly into the hands of hard-working Canadians—offering both a basic benefit and a disability supplement for those who qualify.
For 2025, the CWB continues with quarterly advance payments and annual adjustments based on inflation. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about the CWB payment dates for 2025, updated eligibility requirements, benefit amounts, and how to apply.
Table of Contents
What is the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)?
The Canada Workers Benefit is a federal tax credit designed to:
- Encourage employment for low-income individuals and families.
- Provide financial relief through refundable credits.
- Support working Canadians with or without disabilities.
CWB includes:
- Basic amount: For all eligible working Canadians.
- Disability supplement: For those with a recognized disability.
The CRA may pay up to 50% of your CWB in advance payments across four quarters, while the remainder is delivered when you file your annual tax return.
Who is Eligible for the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025?
To receive the CWB in 2025, you must meet these core eligibility criteria:
- Earned working income in 2024 (from employment or self-employment).
- Be a resident of Canada throughout the year.
- Be at least 19 years old on December 31, 2024, OR live with your spouse/common-law partner or child.
❌ You are not eligible if:
- You were a full-time student for more than 13 weeks (unless supporting a dependent).
- You were incarcerated for over 90 days in the year.
- You lived outside Canada for a significant part of the year.
- Neither you nor your spouse had any working income.
CWB Benefit Income Thresholds (2025)
While official CRA figures for 2025 will be published soon, here are the estimated income thresholds (based on past increases):
| Household Type | Phase-Out Starts | Phase-Out Ends |
|---|---|---|
| Single (no children) | $26,855 | $33,015 |
| Families (with/without kids) | $30,639 | $43,210 |
| Disability Supplement (single) | $37,740 | $38,759 |
| Disability Supplement (family) | $49,389 | $50,722 |
Canada Workers Benefit Amounts for 2025
Here are the estimated maximum amounts for the 2025-2026 tax year:
- Single individuals: Up to $1,633 (increase from $1,590)
- Families (couples or with children): Up to $2,813 (increase from $2,739)
- Disability supplement: Additional $843 per eligible adult
The actual amount you receive depends on:
- Your working income
- Your net family income
- Marital status
- Disability status
CWB Payment Dates 2025
If you qualified for the CWB based on your 2024 tax return, the CRA will send advance payments in 2025-2026 on the following dates:
- July 11, 2025
- October 10, 2025
- January 12, 2026
These payments total 50% of your estimated CWB amount. The remaining balance will be paid after your 2025 tax return is processed in 2026.
Recap: CWB Payment Dates 2024
The CRA issued the 2024 advance payments on:
- January 12, 2024
- July 12, 2024
- October 11, 2024
How to Apply for the CWB
You do not need to submit a separate application for the Canada Workers Benefit. Here’s what you need to do:
- File your annual income tax return.
- Complete Schedule 6 – Canada Workers Benefit (included in all major tax software).
- If eligible for the disability supplement, ensure you’ve filed Form T2201 – Disability Tax Credit Certificate with the CRA.
If you qualify, advance payments will be sent automatically.
Canada Workers Benefit Disability Supplement 2025
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) Disability Supplement provides additional financial support for eligible low-income workers living with a disability. In 2025, the maximum amount for the disability supplement is $821 for both single individuals and families. However, this amount is gradually reduced as income rises.
- Maximum supplement: $843 (same for singles and families).
- Phase-out for singles: Begins at $37,740; ends at $38,759
- Phase-out for families: Begins at $49,389
- If one spouse qualifies, benefit ends at $50,722
- If both spouses qualify, benefit ends at $59,038.
- Note: Amounts may differ for residents of Quebec and Nunavut.
To qualify, the individual must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and meet the general CWB eligibility criteria.
Additional Tips for CWB Recipients
- Keep your information updated: Report changes in marital status or address to avoid payment issues.
- Use CRA My Account to view payment status or benefit eligibility.
- You can opt-out of advance payments by contacting the CRA.
Example Scenario
Sarah, a single worker in Ontario earning $26,000 in 2024:
- Qualifies for partial CWB.
- Gets four advance payments of ~$190 each in 2025.
- Receives remaining ~$700 after filing her 2025 tax return in 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Canada Workers Benefit continues to offer much-needed support to Canada’s working poor, particularly as inflation pressures household budgets. Knowing the CWB payment dates in 2025, understanding eligibility, and filing taxes on time will ensure you don’t miss out on these quarterly payments.