Canada is proposing a major increase to the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) in 2027, offering additional financial support to low- and modest-income workers. Under the proposed changes announced in Budget 2026 on November 5, eligible single individuals could receive up to $1,859 annually, while families could qualify for a maximum of $3,143.
The proposed changes would also make it easier for workers with lower earnings to qualify, potentially bringing 180,000 additional Canadians into the program.
Here is everything you need to know about the Canada Workers Benefit 2027 increase, eligibility requirements, payment changes and what these developments mean for workers living in Canada.
What Is the Canada Workers Benefit?
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable federal tax credit designed to support Canadians earning low or modest incomes. It provides additional financial assistance to eligible individuals and families who are working, whether they are employed or self-employed.
Following Budget 2026, the federal government has proposed renaming and enhancing the program under the title Build Canada Workers Benefit (BCWB).
The proposed improvements would begin with the 2027 tax year, subject to legislative approval.
Canada Workers Benefit 2027: What Is Increasing?
The proposed changes include higher maximum payments and lower income requirements.
Here is a comparison of the existing 2027 benefit amounts and the proposed increases:
| Benefit category | Existing 2027 amount | Proposed 2027 amount |
|---|---|---|
| Single individuals | $1,709 | $1,859 |
| Families | $2,943 | $3,143 |
| Minimum working income | $3,000 | $500 |
| Disability supplement threshold | $1,150 | $200 |
This means eligible individuals could receive an additional $150 annually, while families could receive another $200.
However, the biggest improvement could be for workers earning very little, as the minimum income threshold would drop significantly.
180,000 More Workers Could Become Eligible
One of the most important changes is the proposed reduction of the minimum working-income requirement from $3,000 to just $500.
Currently, workers generally need at least $3,000 in annual working income before their basic benefit begins accumulating.
Under the proposed system, eligible workers would start building their benefit once their earnings exceed $500.
For example, a single worker earning $5,000 annually could receive approximately $1,215 under the proposed calculation, compared with $540 under the existing rules.
That represents an increase of $675.
The government estimates that approximately 1.9 million low-income workers would benefit from the enhanced program.
Additional Support for Workers with Disabilities
The proposed changes would also improve financial support for workers eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
The minimum earnings threshold for the disability supplement would decrease from $1,150 to $200.
This would allow more eligible workers with disabilities to access additional financial assistance.
Applicants must have an approved Disability Tax Credit certificate with the CRA to qualify for the supplement.
Changes to Canada Workers Benefit Payments
While the proposed benefit amounts are increasing, the government is also planning changes to advance payments.
Under the proposal:
- July 2027 onwards: Advance payments would decrease from 50% to 25% of the previous year’s CWB entitlement.
- 2028 onwards: Advance payments would be eliminated.
Eligible workers would receive their full calculated benefit after filing their annual tax returns.
For example, the enhanced 2027 benefit would generally be calculated after filing the 2027 income tax return in 2028.
This means Canadians should plan for a change from receiving advance instalments to receiving their entitlement through the annual tax assessment process.
Who Can Qualify for the Build Canada Workers Benefit?
Although the proposed program would expand eligibility, applicants would still need to satisfy specific requirements.
Generally, eligible individuals must:
- Be residents of Canada throughout the relevant tax year.
- Be at least 19 years old by December 31, or live with a spouse, common-law partner or eligible dependant.
- Earn eligible employment or self-employment income.
- Meet the applicable family income requirements.
Certain full-time students without eligible dependants and other excluded individuals may not qualify.
The final eligibility determination depends on the CRA’s assessment and the applicable tax rules.
How to Claim the Canada Workers Benefit
Eligible individuals generally claim the existing CWB when filing their annual income tax return using Schedule 6.
There is no separate application for the regular benefit. The CRA calculates the entitlement using the information provided in the tax return.
To prepare for the proposed 2027 changes, workers should:
- File their income tax returns on time.
- Report their employment and self-employment income accurately.
- Ensure their personal information and direct deposit details are updated with the CRA.
- Keep their Disability Tax Credit documentation current, if applicable.
Remember that the enhanced benefit is still a Budget 2026 proposal and must go through the legislative process before taking effect.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Build Your Future in Canada
Financial benefits are one part of building a secure future in Canada. Having the right immigration status and a long-term settlement strategy is equally important.
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Let ICC Immigration help you explore your options and take informed steps towards a more secure future in Canada.