Canadian families may soon see a $1,200 one-time increase to the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) in October 2025, contingent on Parliamentary approval. The proposal, expected to be voted on in late August, could inject significant additional support into household budgets—without requiring any extra application.
What’s the Proposal?
| Aspect | Current CCB (2024–25) | Proposed Top-Up (Oct 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum annual CCB per child | Up to $7,997 (under-6) / $6,748 (6–17) | +$1,200 one-time boost per child under 6 |
| Eligibility | Based on adjusted family net income (AFNI) | Same income thresholds apply |
| Payment timing | Paid monthly from July to June | One-time payment in mid‑October 2025 |
| Application required? | No, based on CRA tax returns | No separate application needed |
The proposed $1,200 top-up would apply to children under six, mirroring past temporary supports. If passed, this arrives on top of standard CCB amounts starting October 2025.
Timeline & Next Steps
- Late August 2025: Parliament votes on the top-up motion
- September 2025: CRA updates child benefit notices
- October 2025: First one-time payment distributed
- Future Adjustments: Standard CCB continues inflation indexing from July 2025
Who Qualifies?
Qualification depends on standard CCB rules:
- Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Primary caregiver of eligible child(ren) under 18
- Filed 2024 income tax return
- Adjusted family net income below thresholds
- Max CCB if AFNI ≤ $37,487; reduction rates apply above that up to ~$81,222
Families already receiving CCB and meeting income thresholds are automatically eligible for the top-up—no new applications required.
Why It Matters
- Direct financial boost: An extra $1,200 per child under six adds up fast—helping with childcare, nutrition, school costs, or housing.
- Affordable with no strings: No separate sign-up or burden—if you’re getting CCB, you’ll get this, too.
- Inflation relief: As cost pressures continue, more support for young families helps keep kids out of poverty.
- Part of broader strategy: The boost aligns with ongoing federal efforts to support families and reduce child poverty.
What You Should Do
- File your 2024 tax return on time if you haven’t already—eligibility depends on it.
- Track the Parliamentary vote in August—news updates should follow quickly.
- Verify your CRA info (address, bank details, children listed correctly).
- Watch for CRA notices in September confirming your updated benefit amount.
- Plan your budget knowing this one-time support could arrive in October.
FAQs
1. Do I need to apply for the $1,200 top-up?
No. If you receive CCB and your 2024 return qualifies, the top-up comes automatically—no action needed.
2. Will families with older children benefit?
The $1,200 is proposed only for children under six. Parents of older kids continue receiving regular CCB amounts.
3. What income levels qualify for the top-up?
Your AFNI must be below CCB thresholds—max benefit if ≤ $37,487. Above that, regular income-based reductions apply.
4. When will the top-up arrive?
If approved, deposits happen in mid–October 2025. Check your CRA My Account or posted notice in September.
5. Can it affect my other benefits?
No. The top-up is tax-free and does not impact GST/HST credit, Provincial benefits, or other subsidies.
Final Thoughts
A $1,200 one-time top-up could offer significant relief to families of young children—stretching budgets and easing financial stress. To be ready:
- Ensure tax filings are complete
- Monitor the Parliamentary decision in August
- Keep contact details current with CRA
- Prepare for a boost hitting your account in October
With no application needed and direct delivery, this support is designed to land right in your pocket—making it a crucial moment to stay informed and ready.