Starting on or before October 20, 2023, Canadian families will receive a new Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment. This payment is one of the last two for this year.
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a crucial financial aid program offered by the Canadian government to support families in raising their children.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to understand the CCB in 2023, from eligibility criteria to payment details and application procedures.
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What is Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment designed to assist Canadian families with the costs of raising children under the age of 18.
The CCB is one of the government’s initiatives to ensure that all Canadian children have the opportunity to grow and develop in a healthy and supportive environment.
The benefit increased by 6.3% in July 2023 to help families cope with the rising cost of living.
Who is Eligible for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
To qualify for the CCB, you need to meet the following criteria:
- You live with a child who is under 18 years of age
- You are primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child
See who is primarily responsible - You are a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- You or your spouse or common-law partner must be any of the following:
- a Canadian citizen
- a permanent resident
- a protected person
- a temporary resident who has lived in Canada for the previous 18 months, and who has a valid permit in the 19th month other than one that states “does not confer status” or “does not confer temporary resident status”
- an individual who is registered, or entitled to be registered under the Indian Act
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Calculator 2023
For families with Only 1 child:
During the monthly payment period from July 2023 to June 2024, households with an adjusted family net income (AFNI) of $34,863 in 2022 qualify for the following tax-free benefits for one child:
- $7,437 per year or $619.75 per month for children under six years old
- $6,275 per year or $529.91 per month for children aged between six and seventeen
These amounts decrease if the family’s adjusted net income exceeds $34,863, as indicated below:
Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) in 2022 | CCB for Child < 6 Years | CCB for Child 6-17 Years |
Less than $34,863 | $7,437 per year ($619.75 per month) | $6,275 per year ($529.91 per month) |
$34,864 to $75,537 | $7436.93 to $4589.82 per year ($619.74 to $382 per month) | $6,274.93 to $3,427.82 per year |
Greater than $75,537 | $7,436.93 – ($2,847 + 3.2% of income above $75,537) | $6,274.93 – ($2,847 + 3.2% of income above $75,537) |
Important notes about Canada Child Benefit 2023 calculations:
The CCB amount varies based on factors such as annualized family net income, the number and ages of eligible children, and additional benefits. For precise estimations, use the official CRA calculator.
For families with 2 children:
You receive the maximum CCB payment per child with no reduction if your AFNI is below $34,863.
If your AFNI is between $34,863 and $75,537, your total payment is reduced by 13.5% of the income exceeding $34,863.
If your AFNI exceeds $75,537, your CCB payment is reduced by $5,491 plus 5.7% of the income exceeding $75,537.
For families with 3 children:
If your AFNI is below $34,863, you receive the maximum CCB payment per child with no reduction.
If your AFNI is between $34,863 and $75,537, your total payment is reduced by 19% of the income exceeding $34,863.
If your AFNI exceeds $75,537, your CCB payment is reduced by $7,728 plus 8% of the income exceeding $75,537.
For families with 4 or more children:
If your AFNI is below $34,863, you receive the maximum CCB payment per child with no reduction.
If your AFNI is between $34,863 and $75,537, your total payment is reduced by 23% of the income exceeding $34,863.
If your AFNI exceeds $75,537, your CCB payment is reduced by $9,355 plus 9.5% of the income exceeding $75,537.
How to Apply for Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
Applying for the CCB is straightforward and can be done in a few different ways:
1. Through Birth Registration
If you’re welcoming a new member to your family, you can apply for the CCB through birth registration. Ensure you provide the necessary information during this process.
2. Online via My CRA Account
You can apply for the CCB online by creating or accessing your My CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) account. This method offers a convenient and efficient way to apply.
3. By Mail Using Form RC66, Canada Child Benefits Application
If you prefer a paper application, you can download Form RC66 from the CRA website and submit it by mail. Be sure to complete all sections accurately.
It’s essential to apply as soon as you become eligible. You can apply when:
- Your child is born
- A child starts living with you or returns to live with you after a temporary period elsewhere
- You begin, end, or change a shared custody arrangement
- You gain custody of a child
- You or your spouse/common-law partner start meeting the eligibility conditions
Applying early ensures that you receive the benefit as soon as you become eligible.
Payment Dates for 2023
CCB payments are issued monthly, and it’s crucial to know the payment dates. For 2023, the payment dates are as follows:
- October 20, 2023
- November 20, 2023
- December 13, 2023
Knowing the payment schedule allows you to plan your family’s finances accordingly.
Recalculation and Indexing
The CCB payment is recalculated annually in July based on your adjusted family net income from the previous year. The CCB is also indexed to inflation.
To clarify further:
- Payments from July 2023 to June 2024 are based on your adjusted family net income from 2022.
- Payments from July 2022 to June 2023 were based on your adjusted family net income from 2021.
In other words, any changes in your income during 2022 will only impact your CCB payments starting in July 2023.
What’s a CCB notice?
A CCB notice is a letter from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) that tells you how much money you’ll get from the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and when you’ll receive it.
They send this letter within 80 days of getting your CCB application.
Additional Provincial Child Benefits
Certain provinces and territories offer extra financial support to help families with the costs of raising children. Some of these benefits are provided separately, while others are added to and paid alongside your CCB payment.
Here are official links for various provinces and territories:
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Manitoba
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Northwest Territories
- Nova Scotia
- Nunavut
- Ontario
- Prince Edward Island
- Quebec
- Saskatchewan
- Yukon
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Contact Information
If you have questions or need assistance regarding the CCB, you can contact the following helpline numbers:
For CCB inquiries (except Alberta, Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut): 1-800-387-1193.
Alberta: 1-800-959-2809.
Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut: 1-866-426-1527.
Helpline Hours
The helpline operates on the following schedule:
- Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (local time)
- Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (local time)
- Closed on Sundays and public holidays.