The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) continues to deliver the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) as a tax-free monthly payment to eligible families raising children under 18.

For some households, total annual support can reach around $6,500 per year, depending on income and number of children. That typically works out to approximately $541 per month, paid directly into a bank account.

Here’s how the benefit works, who qualifies, and what families should know for the current benefit year.

What Is the Canada Child Benefit?

The Canada Child Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment designed to help families with:

• Groceries and household expenses
• Childcare costs
• School supplies and extracurricular activities
• Transportation and daily living needs

The CCB is income-tested and recalculated every July based on the previous year’s tax return.

How a $6,500 Annual Benefit Breaks Down Monthly

If a family qualifies for approximately $6,500 annually, the CRA distributes that amount over 12 months.

Estimated Payment Structure

• Total Annual CCB: $6,500
• Estimated Monthly Amount: ~$541
• Payment Frequency: Monthly
• Delivery Method: Direct deposit or cheque
• Recalculation Period: Every July

Actual amounts may vary slightly due to CRA rounding or updated income information.

When Are CCB Payments Made?

The CRA generally issues Canada Child Benefit payments around the 20th of each month.

If the 20th falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are usually deposited on the previous business day.

Families receiving about $541 monthly can expect consistent deposits according to the CRA’s published schedule.

Who Qualifies for the Canada Child Benefit?

To receive CCB payments, you must:

• Live with a child under 18
• Be primarily responsible for the child’s care
• Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
• File an annual income tax return
• Meet citizenship or immigration status requirements

In two-parent households, the primary caregiver usually receives the payment.

How Income Affects the $6,500 Amount

The Canada Child Benefit is income-tested.

Families receiving around $6,500 per year typically fall within a moderate income range where partial benefits apply.

As household income increases, the benefit gradually decreases. If income decreases, payments may rise in the next benefit cycle.

July Recalculation: Why It Matters

Each July, the CRA recalculates CCB payments using the previous year’s tax return.

For example:

• 2026–2027 CCB payments are based on 2025 income
• Changes in income, marital status, or number of children affect new monthly amounts

This ensures payments reflect current financial circumstances.

How to Apply for Canada Child Benefit

Parents can apply:

• Online through CRA My Account
• Through provincial birth registration services
• By submitting Form RC66 to the CRA

Once approved, payments begin according to the monthly schedule.

Processing typically takes several weeks.

Situations That Can Change Your Monthly Payment

Several factors can affect whether you continue receiving roughly $541 per month:

Income Changes

Higher income may reduce payments in the next July recalculation.

Additional Children

Adding an eligible child increases total benefits.

Shared Custody

Payments may be split between caregivers if custody is shared.

Marital Status Changes

Separation or marriage can change eligibility amounts.

Why Monthly CCB Payments Matter

Receiving the CCB monthly rather than as a lump sum helps families:

• Budget consistently
• Cover recurring expenses
• Avoid high-interest borrowing
• Maintain financial stability

Because the CCB is tax-free, families keep the full payment amount.

How to Avoid Payment Disruptions

To ensure uninterrupted CCB payments:

• File income tax returns every year (even with no income)
• Keep CRA My Account information updated
• Set up direct deposit
• Report changes in custody or marital status

Failure to file taxes is one of the most common reasons payments stop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much is $6,500 per year in monthly CCB?

About $541 per month, though exact amounts may vary.

Is the Canada Child Benefit taxable?

No. It is completely tax-free.

When are CCB payments issued?

Typically around the 20th of each month.

Do both parents need to file taxes?

Yes, in two-parent households both must file annually.

Can payments increase?

Yes, if income decreases or another child becomes eligible.

What happens if I don’t file my tax return?

Payments may stop until your return is filed.

When are payments recalculated?

Every July, based on the previous year’s income.