The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit that provides extra financial support to low-income individuals and families. In 2025, the benefit continues to offer quarterly advance payments, and the federal government has increased the payment amounts for both basic and disability support.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the CWB in 2025, including payment dates, eligibility, and how much you can expect to receive.
Table of Contents
Who is Eligible for the Canada Workers Benefit?
To qualify for the basic CWB in 2025, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for income tax purposes.
- Be 19 years or older by December 31, 2024 (or live with a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child).
- Have working income of at least $3,000 in 2024.
- Not be a full-time student for more than 13 weeks in the year, unless you have a dependent.
- Not be confined to a prison or similar institution for 90 days or more.
- Not be exempt from Canadian income tax.
To receive the disability supplement, you must also:
- Be approved for the Disability Tax Credit.
- Meet the same income and residency criteria as above.
How Much is the Canada Workers Benefit Payment in 2025?
Basic Amount
- Single workers can receive up to $1,633.
- Families can receive up to $2,813.
Disability Supplement
- Eligible individuals (single or part of a family) can receive up to $843 in addition to the basic amount.
Maximum Possible Payment
- Single workers with disability: up to $2,476.
- Families with disability: up to $3,656.
The actual amount received depends on your net income and family status. Benefits start to phase out once income exceeds certain thresholds.
Canada Workers Benefit Payment Dates 2025
The federal government issues up to 50 percent of the Canada Workers Benefit in advance through three instalments:
- July 11, 2025
- October 10, 2025
- January 10, 2026
The remaining amount is paid after you file your 2025 tax return in 2026.
Why the 2025 CWB Update Matters
This year’s increase—especially the advance payments—ensures lower-income workers receive up to $1,633 or $2,813 earlier in the year, providing crucial cash flow support amid rising living costs. The disability supplement further benefits individuals with long‑term conditions.
How to Get It
- File your 2024 income tax return, including Schedule 6 (Canada Workers Benefit).
- Indicate eligibility for the basic amount and disability supplement on your return.
- Ensure your CRA My Account details (address, direct deposit, family status) are current.
If you received ACWB in 2024, you’re automatically enrolled for 2025—no reapplication needed
Who qualifies for the new $1,200 benefit in Canada?
The $1,200 one-time grant was paid to seniors receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) or Allowance who experienced a reduction in their payments due to receiving pandemic benefits (like CERB or CRB) in 2020. The grant amount compensates exactly for their annual income lost from reduced GIS/Allowance benefits. No action was required—eligible seniors received it automatically via their regular payment method.
Who is eligible for the $300 Canada federal payment?
The one-time $300 payment was issued in 2020 to Old Age Security (OAS) pensioners, with an additional $200 for those also receiving GIS—totaling $500 for dual recipients. It was a COVID‑19 relief measure and not a recurring benefit
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Age 19+, working income of $3,000+, meet income thresholds, Canadian resident |
| Basic Payment | Up to $1,633 (single) or $2,813 (family) |
| Disability Supplement | Up to $843 (additional support for eligible individuals) |
| Advance Payments | July 11, October 10, 2025, and January 10, 2026 |
| How to Get It | File tax return and complete Schedule 6 |
Final Thoughts
The Canada Workers Benefit 2025 remains a vital source of support for working Canadians with low incomes. With increased payments and predictable advance deposits, it helps ease financial pressure and supports daily living costs. If you meet the criteria, ensure your tax return is filed on time to access this important federal benefit.