Starting next week, millions of Canadians will see enhanced CRA payments ranging from \$200 to \$2,800, thanks to major benefit increases taking effect in July 2025. These updates are aimed at providing financial relief to families, seniors, workers, and individuals with disabilities, helping them manage the growing cost of living.
This article offers a complete breakdown of which benefits are increasing, who qualifies, when to expect payments, and how to ensure you don’t miss out.
Bigger Payments Are Coming
A number of federal assistance programs are increasing their payout amounts beginning July 2025. These adjustments are part of a broader effort to combat inflation and ensure vulnerable Canadians receive more meaningful support.
Here are the main programs receiving boosts:
Canada Child Benefit
- Up to \$666/month for each child under age 6
- Up to \$562/month for children aged 6 to 17
- That equals up to \$7,997 annually per child, depending on family income
Canada Disability Benefit
- A new federal benefit launching in July 2025
- Offers up to \$200/month (\$2,400 annually)
- Targeted at low-income individuals with a Disability Tax Credit certification
- Payments are income-tested and based on verified disability status
GST/HST Credit
- A quarterly tax-free credit, with the July 2025 installment set as follows:
- \$133.25 for single adults
- \$174.50 for couples
- \$46 per child included in the household
Old Age Security (OAS)
- Increased for inflation, with payments rising to:
- About \$735/month for recipients aged 65–74
- Around \$808/month for seniors aged 75 and older
Advanced Canada Workers Benefit
- Upfront payments based on 2024 income
- Up to \$1,633 for singles
- Up to \$2,813 for families
- An additional \$843 disability supplement for those who qualify
Who Can Get These Payments?
All the payment boosts being rolled out in July 2025 are based on your 2024 tax return. If you haven’t filed yet, now is the time.
Eligibility depends on several factors:
- Household net income
- Marital status
- Number and ages of children
- Disability Tax Credit status, where applicable
Important: For most benefits, you do not need to reapply every year. If you’ve filed your taxes and meet the requirements, the CRA processes payments automatically.
Key Dates for Deposits
Here’s when you can expect your boosted benefits to hit your account:
- GST/HST Credit: July 4, 2025
- Advanced Canada Workers Benefit: July 11, 2025
- Canada Child Benefit: July 18, 2025
- Old Age Security: July 29, 2025
- Canada Disability Benefit: Begins in July 2025, with the exact date to be confirmed for direct deposit
All payments will be made either by direct deposit or mailed cheque, depending on your CRA preferences.
How to Make Sure You Don’t Miss Out
To ensure you receive the correct payments without delay, take the following steps right away:
- Confirm your 2024 tax return has been filed correctly and on time
- Make sure your CRA My Account has your current:
- Banking information
- Mailing address
- Family status
- For disability benefits, confirm you’re approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Failing to file taxes or missing important account updates could delay or reduce your payments.
Why These Increases Matter
The federal government’s decision to raise these benefits is a response to Canada’s growing cost of living, which has significantly impacted food prices, housing, transportation, and healthcare.
By boosting the Canada Child Benefit, OAS, GST/HST Credits, and launching the Canada Disability Benefit, Ottawa is attempting to provide relief to the most vulnerable groups—children, seniors, workers, and people with disabilities.
Where to Get Official Information
For the most accurate and up-to-date details on benefit amounts, eligibility, and payment schedules, visit the following official resources:
- CRA Child and Family Benefits Overview
- CRA Benefit Payment Dates
- Canada Disability Benefit Details
- Old Age Security Program Information
These sites provide detailed breakdowns, tools to calculate your estimated benefit, and personalized access through your CRA account.
FAQs
Q1: Do I need to apply for the July 2025 CRA benefit increases?
A: In most cases, no. If you’ve filed your 2024 taxes and meet eligibility criteria, payments are made automatically.
Q2: How do I know if I qualify for the new Canada Disability Benefit?
A: You must have an approved Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and meet the income criteria set by the CRA.
Q3: Can I still receive benefits if I filed my taxes late?
A: You may receive delayed payments once your return is processed. File your 2024 taxes as soon as possible to avoid missing benefits.
Q4: How are Canada Child Benefit amounts calculated?
A: The CCB is income-tested based on your net family income and the number of children. The maximum for July 2025 is \$666/month for kids under 6.
Q5: What if my direct deposit info is outdated?
A: Update your CRA My Account with your latest banking details to avoid payment delays or missed deposits.
