Maximizing Your Dollar With Canada Child Benefit: A Practical Guide for Newcomers

Moving with your family to a new country means facing extra costs. That’s where the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) makes a real difference. The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment that helps families with children under 18. Think of it as Canada’s way of helping you raise your kids without sacrificing quality of life.

At Thrive in Canada, we believe smart finances are key to thriving life. Here’s how the CCB can support newcomer families—and how to make sure you don’t miss out.

What Is the Canada Child Benefit?

The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment from the Canadian government, based on:

• The number and ages of your children

• Your family’s annual income

• Your immigration and residency status

  
  

How Much Can You Receive?

For the 2024–2025 benefit year:

• Up to $7,787 per year for each child under 6

• Up to $6,570 per year for children aged 6–17

That’s $500 to $650 per month per child, which can help with essentials like:

• Groceries, school supplies, and clothing

• Childcare and extracurricular activities

• Unexpected family expenses

  
  

How to Qualify

To get the CCB, you need to:

• Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes

• Be the primary caregiver of children under 18

• Have a valid immigration status (PR, refugee, or eligible temporary resident with ≥18 months in Canada) 

• File income tax returns each year—yes, even if you have no income!

  
  

How to Apply for CCB

1. Online: Use CRA’s My Account portal

2. By Form RC66: Paper application via mail

3. Provide documents like PR card or landing papers

4. Submit your tax return each year to keep payments going

Once approved, payments arrive on the 20th of each month.

Additional Benefits to Check

• Canada Disability Benefit (CDB): Extra support if your child has a disability

• Provincial supplements: Check if your province offers top-ups—like the Ontario Child Benefit

  
  

Why It Matters for Newcomers

• Consistent support while settling in Canada

• Covers everyday expenses so you can focus on building a stable life

• Helps smooth the transition—especially during those early months

  
  

Final Tips

• File your taxes every year—even if you didn’t earn money

• Apply early after your PR or eligible status is confirmed

• Keep your address and family info updated through CRA

• Check provincial programs for additional financial aid

We’re passionate about helping families access all the supports Canada offers. If you:

• Need help applying

• Want to optimize financial benefits

• Have questions about your eligibility

Reach out at thriveincanadanow@gmail.com or visit www.howtothriveincanada.com—we’re here to walk you through it.