As we head into 2025, many Canadians are looking for financial support options to help ease the strain of inflation, job loss, or low income. The federal government provides a variety of benefits tailored to help different groups—from working families to seniors and unemployed individuals.
This guide breaks down the top benefit programs for 2025, including who qualifies, how much you could receive, and how to apply.
Overview
Canada’s 2025 benefits include Employment Insurance (EI), the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB), GST/HST Credit, Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). These programs aim to offer temporary relief or consistent monthly support depending on your situation.
Here’s a snapshot:
| Benefit Name | Payment Dates | Max Amount (Approx) | Application Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employment Insurance (EI) | Based on claim approval date | Up to $668/week | Yes |
| Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | Monthly | Up to $1,072.93/month | No (auto with OAS) |
| Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) | Jan 12, Jul 12, Oct 12 | $1,428 (individual), $2,461 (families) | Yes (via tax return) |
| GST/HST Credit | Jan 5, Apr 5, Jul 5, Oct 4 | $519 (individual), $680 (families) | No (auto with taxes) |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Around 20th of each month | Up to $6,997/year per child under 6 | No (auto with taxes) |
EI
Employment Insurance (EI) is a short-term income replacement program for individuals who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. You must meet minimum insurable hours and be available for work.
- Eligibility: Must have worked required hours and be unemployed for 7 consecutive days
- Amount: Up to $668 per week
- How to Apply: Visit the Service Canada website and apply online
- Wait Time: Up to 28 days for payment after approval
GIS
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is for low-income seniors who already receive Old Age Security (OAS). It provides monthly, tax-free income on top of OAS.
- Eligibility: 65+ years old and receiving OAS
- Amount: Up to $1,072.93/month for single seniors
- How to Apply: Automatically applied when applying for OAS
Make sure your tax returns are filed every year to keep getting GIS without interruptions.
CWB
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit to support low-income workers. Payments are issued quarterly and help supplement wages for individuals and families.
- Eligibility:
- Single: income under $33,015
- Families: income under $43,212
- Amount:
- Up to $1,428 (individuals)
- Up to $2,461 (families)
- How to Apply: Claimed during annual income tax filing
- Advance Payments: Sent Jan 12, July 12, and Oct 12 in 2025
GST
The GST/HST Credit is a quarterly tax-free benefit for low- and moderate-income Canadians. It helps offset the goods and services tax or harmonized sales tax paid throughout the year.
- Eligibility: Canadian resident, aged 19+ or have children
- Amount:
- Up to $519 (single)
- Up to $680 (with spouse or dependents)
- Payment Dates: Jan 5, Apr 5, Jul 5, Oct 4
- How to Apply: Automatically considered when filing your taxes
CCB
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) supports families with children under 18. It’s paid monthly and is tax-free.
- Eligibility: Canadian resident with child under 18, must file taxes annually
- Amount:
- Up to $6,997/year for children under 6
- Up to $5,903/year for children 6 to 17
- Payment Dates: Around the 20th of each month
- How to Apply: Automatically determined when filing your taxes
Make sure to update CRA with any family changes like marital status, number of children, or change of address.
How to Apply
Need help applying? Here’s how to start for each program:
1. Employment Insurance (EI)
- Visit Service Canada
- Create an account
- Upload necessary documents (ROE, SIN, direct deposit info)
2. GIS (with OAS)
- Apply for OAS through My Service Canada Account
- GIS will be assessed automatically
3. Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
- File your income tax return
- Tick the CWB section
- If eligible, you’ll get quarterly payments or a lump sum
4. GST/HST Credit
- File taxes yearly—even if you have no income
- CRA will calculate and issue the credit automatically
5. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- File your taxes annually
- Ensure your child is registered with the CRA (e.g., through birth registration or RC66 form)
- Update CRA with any custody or income changes
By staying informed and on top of your taxes and personal info, you can make the most of what Canada’s 2025 benefits have to offer.
FAQs
When is the next GST payment?
The next GST credit is on July 5, 2025.
How much is EI in 2025?
Up to $668 per week, depending on your insurable earnings.
Who qualifies for CWB?
Low-income workers earning under $33,015 (individuals).
Do I need to apply for GIS?
No, it’s automatic when you apply for OAS.
Is CCB automatic?
Yes, but you must file taxes and keep child info updated.
