Jerry
If you’re earning a modest income, the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) offers a valuable financial lifeline in 2025.
As a refundable tax credit, it provides up to $1,238 per advance payment each quarter—without needing to repay it. Let’s explore how this benefit works, who qualifies, and how to make the most of it.
What Is the Canada Workers Benefit?
The CWB is designed to support low-income working individuals and families. It consists of two parts:
- Basic Amount – based on income and family situation
- Disability Supplement – for those eligible for the Disability Tax Credit
Qualified individuals can receive up to 50% of their annual CWB as advance quarterly payments, with the balance issued after filing their tax return.
How Payments Work in 2025
| Quarter | Advance Payment Date | Max Payment (Including Disability Supplement) |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | January 10, 2025 | Up to $1,238 (family) or $619 (single) |
| Q2 | April 10, 2025 | Same as Q1 |
| Q3 | July 10, 2025 | Same as Q1 |
| Q4 | October 10, 2025 | Same as Q1 |
Actual amounts vary based on individual circumstances.
The final annual payment arrives after filing your 2025 tax return, reconciling any difference between advance payments and your entitled total.
Who Qualifies?
To receive the CWB in 2025, you must meet all of the following:
- Be a Canadian resident as of the first month of the quarter
- Be 19 years or older, or live with a spouse/dependent
- Earn at least $3,000 in working income during 2024
- Have net adjusted income below:
- ~$37,500 for singles
- ~$49,400 for families
- If a student, have a dependent to qualify
- Not be incarcerated for more than 90 days in 2024
- For the Disability Supplement, be approved for the Disability Tax Credit
How to Get the CWB
- File your 2024 tax return, including the CWB claim (line 45300).
- Opt in for advance payments by ticking the relevant box on your return or via CRA My Account.
- Confirm your direct deposit information is accurate.
- Ensure eligibility for the Disability Supplement if applicable—have the Disability Tax Credit in place.
- After filing your 2025 return, CRA reconciles payments, issuing any additional amount owed.
Why This Still Matters
- Regular support: Quarterly payments create reliable income for basic needs
- Non-taxable supplement: Helps stretch budgets without affecting income-tested benefits
- Encourages employment: Supports individuals transitioning from social assistance to employment
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment frequency | Quarterly (Jan, Apr, Jul, Oct) + annual final payment |
| Maximum quarterly payment | Up to $1,238 (family) or $619 (individual) |
| Total annual maximum | Up to $4,952 (if fully eligible) |
| Taxable? | No – CWB is a non-taxable credit |
| Affects other benefits? | No – does not reduce EI or other credits |
The Canada Workers Benefit continues to provide meaningful support in 2025, delivering up to $1,238 each quarter to eligible individuals and families.
By ensuring your 2024 tax return is filed properly, opting into advance payments, and keeping your eligibility clear, you can maximize this valuable financial boost.
Don’t miss out—this quarterly payday could make a real difference for your household budget this year.
FAQs
Do I need to reapply for each quarter?
No. As long as you file your yearly tax return and opt in for advances, CRA issues quarterly payments automatically.
What if my income increases during 2025?
Your advance payments may exceed your actual entitlement. CRA reconciles this when you file your 2025 tax return and may adjust the final payment accordingly.
Is the CWB taxable?
No—the CWB is fully non-taxable and won’t affect eligibility for other benefits like EI or social assistance.