If you’ve heard about the $2,400 Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) for 2025, you’re probably wondering how it works, who qualifies, and when the money hits your account. Whether you’re single, supporting a family, or living with a disability, the CWB is one of the most valuable (and often overlooked) federal benefits available.
Let’s walk through exactly what the benefit offers this year, how much you can get, and how to make sure you don’t miss out on a dollar.
Overview
Here’s a quick look at the CWB for 2025:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Max Benefit for Individuals | Up to $1,518 |
| Max Benefit for Families | Up to $2,616 |
| Disability Supplement | Up to $737 extra if you qualify |
| Payment Schedule | Jan 10, July 11, Oct 10 + balance at tax time |
| Eligibility Requirements | Working income, Canadian residency, age 19+, filed taxes |
| Application Method | File 2024 tax return + complete Schedule 6 |
| Official Info | Available at Canada.ca |
The CWB is a refundable tax credit, which means you can get it even if you owe no income taxes. It’s designed to boost the income of Canadians working hard for modest pay.
What Is the CWB?
The Canada Workers Benefit is a wage top-up from the federal government. It replaced the Working Income Tax Benefit (WITB) and helps make work pay more. If you’re a low-income worker, the CWB gives you back some of your tax dollars in the form of direct payments.
And unlike most credits that just reduce taxes, the CWB gives actual cash—either all at once during tax season or split across the year in advance payments.
How Much Can You Get?
Base Amounts:
- Individuals: Up to $1,518
- Families: Up to $2,616
The exact amount depends on your income:
- Single individuals start losing the benefit once income exceeds $24,975. It’s phased out entirely around $35,095.
- Families see the phase-out begin at $28,494 and end at $45,934.
Disability Supplement:
An extra $737 is available if you or your spouse qualifies for the Disability Tax Credit. You’ll need to get approved for the DTC first, which involves a medical certificate.
Who’s Eligible?
To receive the CWB, you must:
- Be 19 or older by December 31, 2024
- Be a Canadian resident all year
- Earn at least $3,000 in working income
- File a 2024 income tax return in 2025
You are NOT eligible if:
- You were in prison for more than 90 days
- You were a full-time student for over 13 weeks (unless with dependents)
- You are tax-exempt (e.g., a diplomat or foreign rep)
Married or living common-law? Your benefit is based on combined family income.
Payment Schedule for 2025
There are two ways to receive your benefit:
1. Advance Payments
Get 50% of your estimated annual benefit split into three payments:
- January 10, 2025
- July 11, 2025
- October 10, 2025
The remaining 50% is included in your tax refund after filing your 2024 return.
2. One-Time Payment at Tax Time
If you don’t receive advance payments, the CRA will calculate your full benefit when you file your taxes and include it in your refund.
You don’t need to apply separately for advance payments—just file your taxes early and correctly.
How to Claim the CWB in 2025
Your 2024 tax return, due April 30, 2025, is the key. Use certified tax software like TurboTax or Wealthsimple Tax, or visit a free tax clinic.
Complete Schedule 6
This form helps the CRA calculate your benefit. It’s automatically filled in by most online tax software.
Set Up Direct Deposit
Log into your CRA My Account to set or update your banking info. This ensures faster, secure payments.
Monitor Your CRA Notices
After filing, check your Notice of Assessment. It shows how much you’ll receive and when.
Real-Life Examples
Sarah
- Age: 27
- Income: $22,000 in 2024
- Marital Status: Single
- CWB Benefit: $1,518
- Advance payments: $253 in Jan, July, and Oct
- Balance of $759 added to her tax refund
Raj & Priya
- Family income: $30,000
- One child, Raj has a disability
- Total benefit: $2,616 + $737 = $3,353
- Advance payments: $559 in Jan, July, and Oct
- Final balance paid at tax time
These stories show just how much the CWB can help real working Canadians stay afloat or get ahead.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the CWB in 2025?
Low-income workers over 19 earning at least $3,000 annually.
How much is the CWB for single workers?
Up to $1,518, plus $737 if eligible for the disability supplement.
When are the CWB advance payments sent?
January 10, July 11, and October 10, 2025.
Do I have to apply for advance CWB?
No, just file your taxes and the CRA calculates it for you.
Can couples receive the CWB together?
Yes, families can get up to $2,616 based on combined income.
