The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is getting a significant upgrade in 2025, bringing greater financial assistance to low-income workers and families across the country. Starting July 11, 2025, eligible individuals can begin receiving quarterly payments to help cope with rising living costs.
Whether you’re an individual or supporting a household, the 2025 CWB could deliver up to $1,633 for single recipients, $2,813 for families, and an extra $843 disability supplement, all depending on your income from 2024.
Here’s a comprehensive look at this year’s Canada Workers Benefit—explaining who qualifies, how much you can get, key payment dates, and how to apply.
What is the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)?
The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit designed to provide income support to low-wage earners. It helps reduce poverty and encourage workforce participation.
Components of the CWB
- Basic Amount: Core financial aid for low-income workers.
- Disability Supplement: Additional support for individuals with a certified disability via the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
In 2025, the CRA will continue offering Advance Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) payments—three instalments based on your 2024 tax return. If you were already receiving advance payments in 2024, you’ll be automatically enrolled for 2025—no reapplication needed.
What’s New in 2025? Higher Maximum Payments
This year’s update offers increased CWB amounts to ease cost-of-living pressures. Below are the updated maximums:
| Recipient Type | Maximum Basic Amount | Phase-Out Starts | Ends at |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $1,633 | $26,855 | $37,474 |
| Families | $2,813 | $30,639 | $49,391 |
Disability Supplement for 2025
| Recipient Type | Maximum Supplement | Phase-Out Starts | Ends at |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $843 | $37,740 | $38,759 |
| Families | $843 | $49,389 | $50,722 |
Note: Residents of Quebec, Alberta, and Nunavut may receive different amounts due to provincial adjustments. Always check with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for region-specific information.
Eligibility Criteria for 2025 CWB
Basic Amount Requirements
To receive the basic CWB, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for the full year.
- Be 19 years or older by December 31, 2024, or live with a spouse, common-law partner, or child.
- Have earned at least $3,000 in working income in 2024.
Disability Supplement Requirements
To be eligible for the $843 supplement, you must:
- Have a valid Disability Tax Credit (DTC) via Form T2201 approved by the CRA.
- Meet the income limits:
- Singles: Less than $37,740
- Families: Less than $49,389
Who Is Not Eligible for the CWB in 2025?
You do not qualify if:
- You were a full-time student (over 13 weeks in 2024) without dependents.
- You were incarcerated for 90 days or more during 2024.
- You are a non-taxpaying diplomat or a family member of one.
How Much Can You Receive in 2025?
Depending on your income and household situation, here’s the potential breakdown:
- Single workers: Up to $1,633 (basic) + $843 (disability supplement)
- Families: Up to $2,813 (basic) + $843 (disability supplement)
Your benefit amount reduces gradually as your income rises, ending completely at the upper income thresholds listed earlier.
How to Apply for the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025
Applying is straightforward:
- File Your 2024 Income Tax Return using certified software.
- Complete Schedule 6 (Canada Workers Benefit).
- If eligible, include your disability supplement in your return. Only one spouse can claim the basic amount, but both may claim the disability portion.
- Advance Payments are automatically calculated—no separate application required.
Advance Payment Dates for 2025
If eligible, you’ll receive your Advance Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) in three instalments:
- July 11, 2025
- October 10, 2025
- January 9, 2026
Payments may arrive earlier if a date falls on a weekend or public holiday.
Trouble Receiving Your Payment?
If your payment doesn’t show up:
- Confirm Eligibility – Review income and residency criteria.
- Wait 10 Business Days – There may be a processing delay.
- Contact CRA – If there’s still no payment, reach out for assistance.
Conclusion
The 2025 Canada Workers Benefit is more than just a tax credit—it’s an essential tool for relieving financial stress on low-income Canadians. With increased payments, streamlined access, and automatic enrolment for many, it’s easier than ever to get the support you deserve.
Make sure to file your taxes on time, check your eligibility, and update your CRA details to maximize your benefits. Share this guide with others to ensure more Canadians can benefit from this crucial assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the maximum CWB payment I can receive in 2025?
Singles can receive up to $1,633, families up to $2,813, plus an additional $843 if eligible for the disability supplement, depending on income.
2. Do I need to reapply if I received ACWB payments in 2024?
No. If you were enrolled in the Advance Canada Workers Benefit in 2024, the CRA will automatically continue payments in 2025 based on your 2024 tax return.
3. Can both spouses claim the CWB?
Only one spouse can claim the basic CWB amount, but both can claim the disability supplement if each qualifies.
4. What happens if I forget to file my taxes on time?
You may miss out on advance payments and delay receiving your benefit. Always file on or before the tax deadline to ensure timely payments.
5. Does the amount vary by province?
Yes, Alberta, Quebec, and Nunavut may have different CWB amounts due to regional cost-of-living adjustments. Visit the CRA website for province-specific figures.