The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a helpful program from the government designed to give extra money to low-income workers. This benefit is meant to make life more affordable and help people cover daily costs such as food, rent, and transport. It also encourages people to stay employed and helps reduce poverty across the country.
In 2025, eligible individuals and families can receive a set amount of money depending on their yearly income. The payments are either given in parts throughout the year or as one full amount after tax returns are filed. Those with disabilities may also receive additional money through a special supplement.
This support is available to workers across Canada, but the rules and benefit amounts may slightly change depending on which province or territory you live in. By filing your taxes properly and meeting the rules, you can get this much-needed financial help from the government.
Who Qualifies for the CWB in 2025?
To get the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025, applicants must follow some rules related to age, income, and residency.
General Requirements
- Must be at least 19 years old by December 31, 2025 (unless living with a partner or child).
- Must live in Canada for the whole year.
- Must earn money from a job or self-employment.
Income Limits and Maximum Amounts
The total amount of the benefit depends on how much income you earn. You get the full amount up to a certain income level, then the amount slowly goes down and eventually stops if your income is too high.
For Single Workers:
- Maximum Benefit: $1,518
- Full Amount Given If Income Is Up To: $24,975
- Phased Out If Income Is Over: $33,015
For Families (includes partner or children):
- Maximum Benefit: $2,616
- Full Amount Given If Income Is Up To: $43,212
- Phased Out If Income Is Over: $56,197
Who Cannot Get the Benefit?
- Full-time students (without dependents) who studied more than 13 weeks in 2025.
- People in jail for 90 days or more.
- Anyone who doesn’t live in Canada all year or fails to file a tax return.
How and When Will the Payments Arrive?
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) gives the CWB money in different ways, depending on how you apply.
Payment Schedule for Advance Installments
You can receive your benefit in three payments during the year:
- First Payment: January 10, 2025
- Second Payment: July 11, 2025
- Third Payment: October 10, 2025
If you do not apply for these advance payments, you’ll get the full amount at once after your tax return is processed in 2025.
Easy Steps to Apply for the Benefit
Applying for the CWB is linked to filing your taxes.
- File your 2025 tax return on time.
- Fill out Schedule 6 on your tax form to claim the CWB.
- Send your tax return online or by mail to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
- CRA will check your application and send your payments if you qualify.
If you already got CWB in 2024, you may be considered automatically for early payments in 2025. If you’re applying for the first time, you’ll need to wait until your tax return is reviewed.
Extra Support for Workers with Disabilities
The Canada Workers Benefit has a Disability Supplement to help workers who face extra costs due to disabilities.
What Is the Disability Supplement?
- Maximum Extra Amount: $784 per year
- You must qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
- The amount is reduced based on income, just like the regular CWB.
For Individuals with Disabilities:
- Full Supplement Up To: $33,018
- Phased Out At: $47,300
For Families with Disabilities:
- Full Supplement Up To: $49,166
- Phased Out At: $74,197
This supplement is important for helping with the extra costs of living with a disability.
What Changes by Province or Territory?
Although CWB is a federal benefit, some provinces and territories change the rules slightly to better suit local living costs. For example, income limits or payment amounts may be higher or lower in some areas.
Some provinces also give extra credits or supports for low-income earners. It’s a good idea to check your province’s website or talk to the CRA to learn more about the extra help you might get in your region.