Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) 2025 Payment Increase: Eligibility, Amounts, & Dates

The Canadian government is set to provide increased financial relief to low-income workers through the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB). Beginning July 12, 2025, eligible individuals and families will receive enhanced payments to help cover rising living costs. This guide breaks down the 2025 CWB payment increase, eligibility, amounts, and application process.

What Is the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)?

The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit designed to support low-income workers and their families. It consists of two components:

  1. Basic CWB Amount – Available to all eligible individuals.
  2. Disability Supplement – Additional support for those eligible for the Disability Tax Credit.

New CWB Payment Increase 2025

The updated 2025 Canada Workers Benefit includes higher maximum benefits distributed in three quarterly payments. These payments are based on 2024 tax returns and provide 50% of the total annual entitlement in advance.

New Maximum Payment Amounts for 2025:

  • Single Workers: Up to $1,633 if their adjusted net income is below $26,855.
  • Families: Up to $2,813 for those with an adjusted family net income below $30,639.
  • Disability Supplement: Additional $843 for eligible individuals and families.

These benefits gradually phase out as income increases. No basic payments are available for:

  • Singles earning over $37,474
  • Families earning over $49,391

The disability supplement cut-off thresholds are slightly higher:

  • $38,759 for individuals
  • $50,722 for families (estimated for 2025)

Note: Residents of Alberta, Quebec, and Nunavut may receive adjusted amounts due to provincial agreements.

Who Qualifies for the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025?

To receive the basic CWB amount, you must:

  • Be a Canadian resident for the entire 2024 tax year.
  • Be 19 years or older by December 31, 2024 OR live with a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child.
  • Earn at least $3,000 in working income in 2024.

Who’s Not Eligible?

You won’t qualify for the Canada Workers Benefit if:

  • You are a full-time student for more than 13 weeks in 2024, unless you have a dependent.
  • You are incarcerated for 90 days or more in the year.
  • You are a diplomat or a family member of one and don’t pay Canadian taxes.

Disability Supplement Eligibility

To qualify for the $843 disability supplement, you must:

  • Be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
  • Have an adjusted net income below $37,740 (for singles) or $49,389 (for families).

How Much Canada Workers Benefit Can You Get in 2025?

The 2025 CWB payment amount depends on your income and family status:

  • Singles: Up to $1,633 (basic) + $843 (disability) if income is below phase-out thresholds.
  • Families: Up to $2,813 (basic) + $843 (disability) with similar income limits.

How to Apply for the Canada Workers Benefit

Applying for the Canada Workers Benefit is easy:

  1. File Your 2024 Tax Return – Use CRA-certified tax software or submit Schedule 6 (Canada Workers Benefit).
  2. Claim the Disability Supplement – If eligible, include both the basic and disability claims on your return.
  3. No Separate Application Needed for Advanced Payments – The CRA automatically issues Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) payments to eligible individuals.
  4. Meet the Deadline – Ensure your 2024 tax return is filed to receive payments starting in July 2025.

Canada Workers Benefit Payment Dates 2025

The Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) will be issued on these dates:

  • July 12, 2025
  • October 11, 2025
  • January 10, 2026

Note: If a payment date falls on a weekend or holiday, expect funds on the previous business day.

What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your CWB Payment?

If you don’t receive your Canada Workers Benefit payment:

  1. Confirm Eligibility – Ensure you meet the income and residency requirements.
  2. Wait 10 Business Days – Before taking action, allow 10 business days after the scheduled payment date.
  3. Contact CRA – If your payment is still missing, reach out to the CRA for assistance.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2025 Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) increase helps low-income Canadians cope with rising costs.
  • The first payment arrives on July 12, 2025.
  • Eligible individuals will receive automatic payments based on 2024 tax returns.
  • No need to reapply if you received ACWB payments in 2024.

With the cost of living rising, this financial relief is essential for many Canadians. Make sure to file your taxes on time and keep your CRA information updated to receive your CWB payments without delay.