The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has begun issuing benefit payouts for January 2025.
The benefit programs are designed to provide financial support to eligible Canadians, including families, seniors, low-income individuals, and temporary residents.
These payments help alleviate the rising cost of living and foster economic security.
This comprehensive overview of this month’s key benefits highlights their eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and payment dates to help individuals navigate these essential supports.
On This Page You Will Find:
- Key updates on CRA benefits for January 2025.
- Details on major programs like Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST Credit, Ontario Trillium Benefit, and more.
- Payment amounts, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
- Specific information for temporary residents and newcomers.
- Payment dates for benefits like CPP, OAS, and Veterans Disability Pension.
1. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment intended to support families with children under 18. It aims to offset the costs associated with raising children.
Eligibility:
- Primary caregivers of children under 18 years old.
- Canadian residents, including temporary residents who have lived in the country for at least 18 consecutive months.
- Newcomers can apply upon settling in Canada.
Payment Amounts:
- Up to $7,786.92 annually (or $648.91 monthly) for each child under 6 years old.
- Up to $6,570 annually (or $547.50 monthly) for children aged 6 to 17.
- Payments decrease as the Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) exceeds $36,502.
Payment Date: January 20, 2025.
How to Apply:
- Newcomers can apply online via My Account or submit Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefits Application) to their tax centre.
2. Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit
The GST/HST credit provides tax-free quarterly payments to low- and moderate-income households to help offset the cost of GST and HST.
Eligibility:
- Residents who file their taxes, including temporary residents.
- No separate application is required.
Payment Amounts:
- Up to $519 annually for individuals.
- Up to $680 for couples, with an additional $179 per child under 19 years old.
Payment Date: January 3, 2025.
3. Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
The OTB combines three credits: the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, the Ontario Sales Tax Credit, and the Northern Ontario Energy Credit. It offers financial relief to low- and moderate-income Ontario residents.
Eligibility:
- Residents of Ontario who qualify for at least one of the three credits.
- Temporary residents meeting residency criteria can also be eligible.
Payment Amounts:
- Payments vary based on individual circumstances but can reach up to $1,013 annually.
- Beneficiaries can opt for monthly payments or a lump sum.
Payment Date: January 10, 2025.
4. Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB)
The ACWB is a refundable tax credit for low-income individuals and families designed to encourage workforce participation and provide financial support.
Eligibility:
- Residents aged 19 or older or those living with a spouse or child.
- Income thresholds vary by province and family size.
Payment Amounts:
- Up to $1,518 annually for single individuals.
- Up to $2,616 annually for families, divided into quarterly payments.
Payment Date: January 10, 2025.
How to Apply:
- Eligibility is automatically determined when filing taxes.
5. Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR)
Previously known as the Climate Action Incentive Payment (CAIP), the Canada Carbon Rebate helps offset costs associated with federal pollution pricing.
Eligibility:
- Residents of provinces subject to federal carbon pricing, such as Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario.
- Additional payments are available for residents of rural or small communities.
Payment Amounts:
- Amounts vary by province and family size. For example:
- Alberta families may receive up to $1,544 annually.
- Ontario families may receive up to $976 annually.
Payment Date: January 15, 2025.
6. Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS)
The CPP and OAS provide financial support to seniors, helping them maintain a stable income during retirement.
CPP Eligibility:
- Individuals who have contributed to the plan during their working years and are at least 60 years old.
OAS Eligibility:
- Individuals aged 65 or older who meet residency requirements.
Payment Amounts:
- CPP payments vary based on contribution history.
- OAS payments depend on years of residency in Canada, with a full pension available after 40 years.
Next Payment Date: January 29, 2025.
7. Veterans Disability Pension
The Veterans Disability Pension provides financial support to Canadian Armed Forces veterans with service-related disabilities.
Eligibility:
- Determined based on service history and medical conditions.
Payment Amounts:
- Payments vary depending on the assessed level of disability.
Next Payment Date: January 29, 2025.
Benefits for Temporary Residents and Newcomers
Temporary residents, including international students and work permit holders, can qualify for many CRA benefits provided they meet residency and income requirements. Newcomers are encouraged to apply for benefits when they establish residency to maximize financial support.
Steps to Apply:
- Create a CRA My Account: This portal is essential for managing benefits and tax-related matters.
- Submit Required Forms: Use Form RC66 to apply for the CCB.
- File Your Taxes: Filing taxes ensure eligibility, even with no income.
- Provide Proof of Residency: Documents like rental agreements or utility bills can establish residency.
The CRA’s benefit programs for January 2025 provide critical financial relief to Canadians and temporary residents alike. By understanding the eligibility criteria and payment schedules for programs like the Canada Child Benefit, GST Credit, and Canada Carbon Rebate, individuals and families can make informed decisions about their economic well-being. The CRA official website has detailed information on each benefit. Applicants may also contact their support services directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), and who qualifies for it?
The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment supporting families with children under 18. Primary caregivers who are Canadian residents or have lived in Canada for 18 consecutive months qualify. Payments decrease based on Adjusted Family Net Income.
How can newcomers apply for CRA benefits?
Newcomers should create a CRA My Account, file taxes, and submit required forms like RC66 for the CCB. Providing proof of residency, such as a rental agreement or utility bill, is also necessary.
What are the payment dates for January 2025 CRA benefits?
GST Credit: January 3
Ontario Trillium Benefit: January 10
Canada Carbon Rebate: January 15
Canada Child Benefit: January 20
CPP and OAS: January 29
Are temporary residents eligible for CRA benefits?
Yes, temporary residents, including international students and work permit holders, may qualify if they meet income and residency criteria. Filing taxes and providing proof of residency are essential steps.
What is the Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR), and how is it determined?
The CCR offsets costs from federal pollution pricing and varies by province and family size. For example, Alberta families may receive up to $1,544 annually, while Ontario families may receive up to $976. Payments also consider rural and small-community adjustments.
