What Is the Canada Carbon Rebate?
The Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR)—formerly known as the Climate Action Incentive—is a tax-free quarterly payment designed to offset the cost impact of federal carbon pricing.
Available in provinces that follow the federal fuel charge (e.g., Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba), it aims to return proceeds directly to households.
How Much Can You Receive?
Your rebate amount depends on:
- Province of residence
- Household size (number of adults & children under 19)
- Rural living status (qualify for a 20% top-up)
Annual Rebate Examples (2024–25)
| Province | 1 Adult | 2 Adults | 2 Adults + 2 Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | $560 | $840 | $1,120 |
| Manitoba | $600 | $900 | $1,200 |
| Saskatchewan | $752 | $1,128 | $1,504 |
| Alberta | $900 | $1,350 | $1,800 |
Rural households in eligible provinces receive a 20% top-up.
Payment Schedule for 2025
CCR payments arrive Quarterly:
| Quarter | Estimated Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Q1 – Jan–Mar 2025 | January 15, 2025 |
| Q2 – Apr–Jun 2025 | April 15, 2025 |
| Q3 – Jul–Sep 2025 | July 15, 2025 |
| Q4 – Oct–Dec 2025 | October 15, 2025 |
The final CCR payment will be processed in April 2025. After that, no further payments are planned unless carbon pricing returns.
Who Is Eligible?
You qualify if you meet all of the following:
- File your 2024 tax return by April 2, 2025
- Are at least 19 years old, or a parent/common-law spouse
- Live in a CCR-eligible province (e.g., Ontario, Manitoba) at the start of the payment month
- Optionally, declare rural residence on your tax form for the extra 20% top-up
How to Receive the Rebate
There’s no extra application—just follow these steps:
- File your 2024 return online or by paper before April 2, 2025
- Enable direct deposit in your CRA My Account or check-payee details
- Rural supplement? Tick the appropriate box on page 2 of your return
- Receive payments quarterly via direct deposit or cheque
If you haven’t filed by April, you’ll receive the final April payment after CRA processes your return.
Why It Matters
- Helps offset costs from carbon pricing, especially for low/middle-income households
- Majority receive more back than they contribute—e.g., Ontario families net ~$472 annually
- Supports national efforts to combat climate change without hurting consumers
Key Points
- Rural top-up: +20% if you live outside census metropolitan areas
- Non-taxable: Does not affect eligibility for other benefits
- Final round: April 2025 marks the last scheduled payment unless new policies introduced
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much is the rebate for my family?
Check the table above—Ontario families of four can receive $1,120 annually or $280 per quarter.
2. Do I need to apply?
No—eligibility is automatic if you file taxes, live in an eligible province, and declare rural status if applicable.
3. Can I still get payments after April 2025?
Unlikely. April 2025 is the final scheduled refund unless carbon pricing is reintroduced.
4. Does this affect my other benefits?
No. The CCR is non-taxable and does not affect GST/HST credits, CCB, or provincial benefits.
5. What if I miss the filing deadline?
If you file after April 2, 2025, you’ll receive your final payment once CRA processes your return.
Final Thoughts
The Canada Carbon Rebate is a significant financial boost tailored to provinces applying federal carbon pricing. With up to $1,120 annually (plus rural top-up), it’s essential for eligible households to file taxes and keep CRA info up to date.
The next rebate arrives July 15, 2025—mark your calendar! After April, the future of the program hangs on policy decisions.