Living on a low income can be hard, especially with rising costs for food, rent, and transportation. That’s why the Government of Canada offers financial help to workers who earn less. This support comes through a program called the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB).
In 2025, the CWB will continue to provide money to workers who qualify. It’s not a loan—you don’t have to pay it back. If you’re single, you could get up to $1,518. Families can get up to $2,616. The exact amount depends on how much you earn.
This benefit is meant to make life easier for working people. It encourages more people to stay employed while giving them the support they need to cover basic living expenses. If you work but don’t earn a lot, this program is for you.
Who Can Get the CWB in 2025?
To get the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025, you must meet certain rules:
- You must be 19 or older by December 31, 2025 (unless you have a spouse or a child).
- You must live in Canada for the full year.
- You must earn money from a job or self-employment.
Who Cannot Receive the Benefit?
Even if you meet the income rules, you cannot get the CWB if:
- You were a full-time student (without dependents) for more than 13 weeks in 2025.
- You were in jail for 90 days or more during the year.
- You didn’t live in Canada all year or didn’t file your taxes.
How Will You Get Paid?
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) sends out payments in parts. These advance payments help people throughout the year. The rest of the money is given after your taxes are filed and reviewed.
If you didn’t sign up for advance payments, you’ll get all the money after you file your 2025 taxes.
How to Apply for the CWB?
The process is simple and tied to your tax return. Here’s what you need to do:
- File your 2025 income tax return before the deadline.
- Fill out Schedule 6 on your return to claim the CWB.
- Submit your tax return to the CRA online or by mail.
- Wait for the CRA to check your eligibility and send your payment.
If you got the CWB in 2024, you may be automatically signed up for advance payments in 2025.
Extra Help for People with Disabilities
There is also a special CWB Disability Supplement. This gives more money to people who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
- The highest payment is $784 per year.
- This also depends on your income level, like the regular CWB.
This extra help makes it easier for people with disabilities to handle everyday costs.
What About Different Provinces and Territories?
Even though the CWB is a federal benefit, some provinces and territories offer extra support. This can include higher payment limits or additional tax credits. These changes are based on local costs of living and government policies.
To find out if your province offers more help, you can visit the CRA website or contact your local tax office.