Canada Child Benefit (CCB): How Newcomers Apply and How Much You Get

The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment to help Canadian families with the cost of raising children. For newcomer families with children, this is one of the most valuable government programs available — worth thousands of dollars annually.

Who qualifies for CCB?

• You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
• You must live with the child and be primarily responsible for their care
• Children must be under 18
• Permanent residents qualify from day one
• Temporary residents must have lived in Canada for 18 consecutive months with valid immigration status in the 19th month (new rule from 2025)
• Refugees and protected persons qualify

How much CCB will you receive?

CCB is income-tested. The maximum amounts apply to families earning under ~$36,500/year. Payments reduce gradually as income increases. Families earning over $170,000 receive minimal or no CCB.

How to apply for CCB

1. File your tax return — CCB is calculated based on your previous year's income. Filing triggers the CRA to assess your eligibility. File even if you had no income — this is essential.
2. Register the birth of your child (if in Canada) — When you register a birth in Ontario or any province, there is an option to automatically apply for CCB. Choose this option.
3. Apply through CRA My Account online — Log into My Account at canada.ca/my-cra-account and apply under 'Apply for child benefits'. You'll need your SIN, your child's date of birth, and your spouse's SIN if applicable.
4. Apply by mail using Form RC66 — If you cannot access My Account, download and complete Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefits Application) and mail it to your CRA tax centre.

When do payments start?

CCB is paid on the 20th of each month. After you apply, it typically takes 8 weeks for the CRA to process your application. Payments are retroactive to when you became eligible — you will not lose money for delays in processing.