In 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) rolled out several important benefit increases that are already making a difference in the lives of millions of Canadians. From families raising children to low-income workers and seniors, these five updated federal programs plus the brand-new Canada Disability Benefit are aimed at helping people handle rising costs and inflation pressures.
Let’s walk through what’s changing, what it means, and how much support you could expect in the 2025–2026 benefit cycle.
Table of Contents
GST/HST
The Goods and Services Tax / Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit is a tax-free quarterly payment that helps low and modest-income Canadians with basic living costs. Starting in January 2025, this benefit increased by 2.7 percent.
Here’s what eligible Canadians now receive annually:
- $533 for single individuals
- $698 for couples
- $184 per child under 19
Eligibility depends on your income, marital status, and number of children. Most Canadians who qualify don’t need to apply separately—just file your taxes on time.
Next Payment Dates:
- October 3, 2025
- January 5, 2026
- April 3, 2026
For a couple with two kids, that’s up to $866 in annual support—a helpful cushion against day-to-day expenses.
ACWB
The Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) is designed to support working Canadians with low income. It delivers half of your Canada Workers Benefit upfront, rather than waiting for tax time.
As of January 2025, these are the maximum annual payments:
- $1,428 for single workers
- $2,461 for families
Some individuals may receive more if they qualify for the Disability Supplement.
Next Payment Date: October 10, 2025
This benefit is especially useful for helping workers manage monthly costs like rent, transit, or childcare—before bills pile up.
CCB
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) saw another increase in 2025, also tied to inflation. It’s one of the most important benefits for families raising kids.
New maximum annual payments are:
- $7,997 for children under 6
- $6,748 for children aged 6 to 17
For example, a household with two kids (one younger than six, one in school) can receive up to $14,745 a year if their income is low enough.
Next Payment Date: October 20, 2025
The CCB helps with essentials like food, school supplies, childcare, and even kids’ sports or recreational activities.
OTB
Ontario residents benefit from the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB), a monthly payment that merges three separate provincial credits.
Maximum annual payments in 2025:
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit: $371 per person
- Energy and Property Tax Credit: up to $1,459 for seniors
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit: up to $284 for eligible residents
Next Payment Date: October 10, 2025
If you live in Ontario and qualify, this benefit offsets housing, energy, and tax-related costs—especially for families and retired individuals.
CPP/OAS
In January 2025, both the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) payments went up by 2.7 percent. These increases help retired Canadians stay afloat as prices climb.
Here are the latest figures:
- Maximum CPP at 65: $1,433/month
- Average CPP: about $900/month
- OAS (ages 65–74): $727.67/month
- OAS (75+): $800.44/month
- GIS for low-income seniors: up to $1,086.88/month
Next Payment Date: September 26, 2025
These benefits support millions of seniors with housing, health care, and day-to-day expenses.
Disability
A huge win for Canadians with disabilities arrived in January 2025: the launch of the Canada Disability Benefit. This new program provides meaningful monthly support for low-income Canadians living with disabilities.
It helps cover everything from healthcare needs and home care costs to food, mobility aids, and general well-being. Though amounts vary based on individual circumstances, the key goal is long-term financial stability.
Payment
To make sure you receive all eligible CRA benefits on time:
- File your taxes every year
- Keep your CRA My Account updated
- Set up direct deposit to avoid cheque delays
Delays or missed benefits often result from outdated personal or banking details—so staying on top of your profile is key.
Summary Table
Here’s a quick overview of the key 2025 benefit increases:
| Benefit Program | Max Amount (Annual or Monthly) | Payment Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| GST/HST Credit | $698 (couples) + $184/child | Quarterly |
| ACWB | $2,461 (families) | Quarterly |
| Canada Child Benefit | $7,997 (under 6), $6,748 (6–17) | Monthly |
| Ontario Trillium | Up to $1,459 + other credits | Monthly (Ontario only) |
| CPP Retirement | Up to $1,433/month | Monthly |
| OAS (75+) | $800.44/month | Monthly |
| Canada Disability | Varies | Monthly |
These boosts reflect the government’s attempt to support Canadians through economic uncertainty. They don’t solve every challenge, but they help stretch the budget just a little further.
FAQs
How much is the GST/HST credit in 2025?
Up to $698 per couple plus $184 for each child.
What is the Canada Workers Benefit payment?
Up to $2,461 for families, paid in advance quarterly.
How much can I get from the Canada Child Benefit?
Up to $7,997 per child under 6; $6,748 for ages 6–17.
When was the Canada Disability Benefit launched?
It launched in January 2025 for low-income Canadians.
What is the CPP max monthly payment in 2025?
Up to $1,433 per month at age 65.
