A fresh round of government payments is rolling out this July, offering a welcome financial lift for many low-income workers across Canada. The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is back, and this year’s advance payments come with notable updates, including higher amounts due to annual inflation adjustments by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Starting this month, most income-based benefits are recalculated using details from your 2024 tax return. That means if your income or family status changed last year, your CWB eligibility or payment might increase.
Let’s explore what the July 2025 Advanced CWB payment has in store — including eligibility, payment amounts, and how to receive your benefit.
Understanding the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit designed to support low-income Canadians who are actively employed but still face financial challenges. The program offers:
- A basic amount for qualifying workers
- A disability supplement for eligible individuals living with disabilities
What is the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB)?
The Advanced CWB allows eligible recipients to get up to 50% of their CWB entitlement ahead of tax season. Rather than waiting for your tax refund, the CRA distributes advance payments in three installments annually.
If you also qualify for the disability component, half of that amount will be included in these early payments.
Key Facts:
- Payments are issued automatically
- You must live in Canada on the first day of each payment quarter
- No separate application is needed — payments are based on your latest tax return
Eligibility Criteria for the Canada Workers Benefit
To receive the CWB, you must:
- Be a resident of Canada throughout the year
- Be 19 or older by December 31 (unless living with a spouse, partner, or child)
- Have earned income and a net income below provincial or territorial limits
Income limits vary depending on location and household size. For example:
- A single individual must earn under $36,749
- A family can earn up to $48,093
You’re not eligible if:
- You were a full-time student for over 13 weeks (unless with a dependent)
- You were incarcerated for 90 days or more
- You don’t pay Canadian taxes due to diplomatic status
Disability Supplement Requirements
To get the disability component:
- You must qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- Have an approved Form T2201 with the CRA
- Meet higher income thresholds that differ from the base benefit
How to Apply for the Canada Workers Benefit
You don’t need a separate form — just file your taxes to claim the benefit.
- Online: Tax software will walk you through it
- Paper: Complete Schedule 6 and include it in your return
For the disability supplement:
- If only one spouse qualifies for the DTC, they must claim both parts
- If both partners qualify, each fills out their own Schedule 6 (but only one can claim the basic CWB)
Advance payments are processed automatically if your return (including line 45300) is filed before November 1.
CWB and ACWB Payment Amounts for 2025
Your CWB payment depends on your income, location, and household size. For the 2024 tax year:
| Category | Maximum CWB | Phase-out Income Start | Cut-off Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $1,590 | $26,149 | $36,749 |
| Family | $2,739 | $29,833 | $48,093 |
If eligible for the disability supplement:
| Category | Max Supplement | Reduction Start | Cut-off Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $821 | $36,748 | $42,222 |
| Family (1 qualified) | $821 | $48,091 | $53,565 |
| Family (2 qualified) | $1,642 | $48,091 | $59,038 |
July 2025 Advance Payment Estimates
- $265 for single individuals
- $456.50 for families or those with dependents
- Plus $136.83 if you qualify for the disability supplement
These are federal amounts; Quebec, Alberta, and Nunavut may have different thresholds.
To calculate your benefit, use the CRA’s official benefits calculator.
Is the Canada Workers Benefit Taxable?
No. The CWB is non-taxable. It’s a refundable credit, which means:
- It reduces taxes owed
- If you owe nothing, you still receive a refund
- Advance payments aren’t taxed either
When Will the Canada Workers Benefit Be Paid?
The next Advanced Canada Workers Benefit payment will be deposited on Friday, July 11, 2025.
Future payments in the current cycle are scheduled for:
- October 10, 2025
- January 12, 2026
Conclusion
The Canada Workers Benefit is a valuable support tool for working Canadians facing financial stress. With higher payment thresholds and automatic advance deposits, many low-income individuals and families will see greater benefits in July 2025. Be sure your 2024 taxes are filed properly to ensure timely payments — and check with the CRA if you’re unsure about your eligibility or amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to apply separately for the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit?
No. If you qualify for the CWB and your taxes are filed before November 1, the CRA sends advance payments automatically.
2. Can students receive the CWB?
Only if you’re not a full-time student for more than 13 weeks, or you have an eligible dependent at the end of the year.
3. How do I check how much I’ll receive?
Use the CRA Benefits Calculator online to get a personalized estimate based on your income, province, and family situation.
4. What happens if I miss the tax filing deadline?
If your return is filed after November 1, you may miss the advance payments but can still receive the full benefit at tax time.
5. Is the CWB available in Quebec and Nunavut?
Yes, but different income thresholds and payment amounts apply. Refer to CRA provincial breakdowns for accurate info.