The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a government program that gives extra money to workers who earn low incomes. It’s a tax credit that helps people who are working but still struggle with basic expenses like food, rent, and bills. The goal is to reduce poverty and support employment.
In 2025, the Canadian government continues to offer this support to both individuals and families. The amount of money a person can get depends on their income, and the benefit is gradually reduced as their earnings go up. It is meant to reward work while offering financial help.
Whether you are a single worker, part of a family, or someone with a disability, the Canada Workers Benefit can make life more affordable. In this guide, we’ll explain who can get it, how much you might receive, when payments are sent, and how to apply. We’ll also cover extra support for people with disabilities and regional differences across Canada.
Who Can Receive the CWB in 2025?
To qualify for the Canada Workers Benefit, you must meet certain conditions. The government uses these rules to make sure the benefit reaches people who need it most.
Basic Rules to Qualify:
- You must be at least 19 years old by December 31, 2025 (unless you have a spouse, partner, or child).
- You must live in Canada throughout the entire year.
- You must earn money from a job or self-employment.
Income Requirements:
How much you receive depends on your total income. There are maximum benefit amounts and income limits, after which the benefit starts to decrease and eventually stops.
Who Cannot Get CWB?
Some people are not eligible even if they meet income limits:
- Full-time students (13+ weeks) with no dependents.
- People in jail for 90 days or more in 2025.
- Anyone who doesn’t live in Canada for the full year or doesn’t file a tax return.
When Will the Payments Be Given?
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) sends the CWB payments in parts to help people throughout the year. These are called advance payments.
Steps to Apply for CWB in 2025
Applying for the Canada Workers Benefit is simple. It is done while filing your taxes.
How to Apply:
- File your 2025 tax return before the deadline.
- Fill out Schedule 6 on your tax return to claim the CWB.
- Send your tax return to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) online or by mail.
- Wait for the CRA to check your return and send your payment.
If you received CWB last year (2024), the CRA might automatically give you advance payments in 2025. But if you are applying for the first time, you’ll get the money only after you file taxes.
Extra Support: CWB Disability Supplement
The CWB also gives extra money to people who have disabilities and are approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). This is called the Disability Supplement.
Disability Supplement Amounts:
To receive this supplement:
- You must qualify for the Disability Tax Credit.
- Your income must be within the limits.
- You must apply for the regular CWB as well.
This extra amount helps people with disabilities manage additional costs of living and support.
Differences in CWB by Province or Territory
While the CWB is a federal program, some provinces and territories offer extra support or have different rules. These changes are based on local living costs and tax rules.
Some provinces:
- Offer top-up benefits along with the CWB.
- Set different income thresholds for their own programs.
- Give other credits that work together with the CWB.
To know exactly what applies to you, check the CRA website or contact your provincial tax office.