Niki
As of June 2025, a major proposal is under review in the Canadian Parliament to provide a $1,200 top-up to the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
If passed, this new measure would deliver additional annual financial support to millions of families raising children, especially those most affected by rising living costs.
Let’s break down what this means, who qualifies, and when the funds could hit your bank account.
Why the $1,200 Canada Child Benefit Boost Is Being Proposed
The cost of living in Canada has surged due to inflation, which currently stands at 3.4% mid-2025. From housing to groceries, child-related expenses are at an all-time high.
In response, federal lawmakers introduced this CCB top-up proposal to strengthen existing aid for Canadian families.
With over 1.2 million children living in households facing food insecurity, this policy is aimed at supporting low- and middle-income households during critical times.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,200 CCB Top-Up in 2025?
To qualify for the proposed top-up, families must meet the existing CCB eligibility criteria, which include:
- Being a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- Having a child under 18 years of age.
- Filing annual income tax returns.
- Meeting the CRA’s income thresholds for the CCB.
The top-up is expected to follow a tiered model, granting the full $1,200 to lower-income families while reducing the amount for those with higher earnings.
Proposed CCB Top-Up Structure: At a Glance
Here’s a detailed comparison between the current CCB and the proposed changes:
| Component | Current (2024-25) | Proposed (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Base CCB (under 6) | Up to $7,437 per child | Unchanged |
| Base CCB (6 to 17) | Up to $6,275 per child | Unchanged |
| Top-Up Amount | Not available | Up to $1,200 per child annually |
| Distribution | Monthly | Added to monthly payments (quarterly possible) |
| Application Needed | Yes | No – automatic through CRA |
The top-up would be non-taxable and added automatically to the CCB payments, requiring no separate application from parents or guardians.
When Will Payments Begin?
The proposal is expected to be voted on in late August 2025. If passed, payments would begin in October 2025.
Families should:
- Ensure their 2024 tax returns are filed.
- Update personal and income details with the CRA.
- Monitor CRA communications for benefit notices confirming top-up inclusion.
Why This Matters for Canadian Families
This proposed $1,200 boost could provide essential relief for families already struggling with high living expenses.
By focusing on low-income households and single-income families, the government aims to deliver targeted support where it’s needed most.
This top-up also reflects Canada’s continued investment in child development and family welfare, especially as food, rent, and education-related costs continue to rise.
If approved, the $1,200 Canada Child Benefit top-up in 2025 could significantly increase support for families raising children during economically uncertain times.
By simplifying access and distributing it automatically, the proposal ensures families won’t have to jump through hoops to receive assistance. Keeping tax filings updated is key to receiving the full benefit—stay informed and be prepared.
FAQs
Who will receive the $1,200 CCB top-up?
Families currently receiving the Canada Child Benefit and who meet income eligibility thresholds will automatically receive the top-up.
Do I need to apply separately for the top-up?
No. The CRA will automatically include the top-up in your regular CCB payment, based on your current benefit information.
Is the top-up taxable?
No, similar to the regular Canada Child Benefit, the proposed top-up will be non-taxable and does not need to be reported as income.