The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is back in 2025 with enhanced support, offering up to \$2,739 for eligible families and \$1,518 for individuals. For those living with a disability, a supplement of up to \$737 may be added on top.
As a refundable tax credit, the CWB allows you to receive money even if you owe no taxes. With payments spread across the year, this federal benefit helps low-income earners manage essential expenses like groceries, rent, fuel, and child care.
Let’s explore how this benefit works, who qualifies, and how to ensure you receive the maximum support available in 2025.
Overview of the 2025 Canada Workers Benefit
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect from the CWB in 2025:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Maximum Benefit | \$2,739 (families), \$1,518 (singles) |
Disability Supplement | Up to \$737 per eligible person |
Eligibility | Low-income workers aged 19+ in Canada |
Advance Payment Dates | January 10, July 11, October 10, 2025 |
Income Phase-Out Starts At | \$24,975 (single), \$28,494 (families) |
Application Method | File 2025 tax return + Schedule 6 |
Official Calculator | CRA CWB Estimator |
What Is the Canada Workers Benefit?
The Canada Workers Benefit is a federal refundable tax credit that helps support working Canadians with low income. You don’t need to owe taxes to receive this credit — eligible recipients will still get paid.
It’s split into two main components:
- Basic amount for low-income workers
- Disability supplement for those approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
This benefit particularly helps part-time employees, seasonal workers, and self-employed individuals who are struggling to meet day-to-day costs.
How Much Can You Receive?
Your benefit amount depends on your income level, marital status, and disability status. Here’s a breakdown for 2025:
Status | Maximum CWB | Disability Supplement |
---|---|---|
Single | \$1,518 | \$737 |
Couple/Family | \$2,739 | \$737 per eligible adult |
The CWB begins to phase out once income crosses:
- \$24,975 for singles
- \$28,494 for families
So, someone earning \$23,000 could receive close to the full amount, while someone at \$30,000 would get a reduced benefit.
CWB Payment Dates in 2025
Eligible individuals will receive advance payments throughout the year. These payments represent 50% of your total benefit, with the remainder issued after you file your 2025 tax return in 2026.
Date | Payment |
---|---|
January 10 | First advance payment |
July 11 | Second advance payment |
October 10 | Third advance payment |
To receive these advance installments, you must have:
- Qualified for the CWB in 2024, and
- Filed your 2024 tax return by November 1, 2024
Who Is Eligible for the CWB in 2025?
To qualify, you must meet the following:
- Be 19 years or older as of December 31, 2025
- Be a Canadian resident for the full year
- Have working income, whether from employment or self-employment
You are not eligible if:
- You were a full-time student for over 13 weeks (unless you had a dependent)
- You were incarcerated for 90 days or more
- You were a diplomat or otherwise exempt from Canadian taxes
To receive the disability supplement, you must:
- Be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- Have a valid Form T2201 approved by the CRA
Both you and your spouse may receive the disability supplement if both qualify.
How to Apply for the Canada Workers Benefit
Claiming the benefit is straightforward:
- File your 2025 tax return – even if you don’t owe taxes
- Complete Schedule 6, which calculates your CWB entitlement
- Submit your return online via NETFILE or by mail
- If you qualified in 2024, advance payments will be sent automatically in 2025
Most CRA-certified tax software includes Schedule 6 and will help calculate your credit automatically.
Example: A Family Eligible for Full CWB
Let’s take an example:
Daniel and Priya, a couple living in Nova Scotia with one child:
- Daniel earns \$18,500 as a delivery driver
- Priya earns \$9,000 from a part-time job
- Their combined income is \$27,500, under the \$28,494 family threshold
They file their taxes and complete Schedule 6. As a result, they receive the full \$2,739 CWB, broken down as:
- \$456 in January
- \$456 in July
- \$456 in October
- The remainder included in their 2025 tax refund
They use the funds to cover groceries, transportation, and child care.
Tips to Maximize Your CWB Benefits
To ensure you get the most from the Canada Workers Benefit:
- Always file your taxes on time, even if your income is low
- If applying for the disability supplement, submit Form T2201 early
- Keep your address and marital status updated with the CRA
- Use the CRA CWB Estimator Tool to forecast your benefit
- If your income dropped recently, re-check your eligibility
Why the Canada Workers Benefit Matters
In an era of high living costs, the CWB acts as a financial lifeline for working Canadians earning below average. It acknowledges the contribution of workers who often face tough economic choices despite working multiple jobs.
By understanding how it works and applying early, recipients can reduce stress, budget better, and secure much-needed cash flow throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much can I get from the CWB in 2025?
You could receive up to \$2,739 if you’re part of a family, or \$1,518 as a single individual. Eligible individuals may also get a \$737 disability supplement.
2. When will CWB advance payments be made in 2025?
Advance payments are sent on January 10, July 11, and October 10, 2025.
3. Do I need to owe tax to qualify for the CWB?
No. The CWB is a refundable tax credit, meaning you’ll receive it even if you owe no income taxes.
4. Can both spouses get the disability supplement?
Yes, if both spouses are approved for the Disability Tax Credit, each can receive the \$737 supplement.
5. What form do I need to file to get the CWB?
You must file your 2025 income tax return, and include Schedule 6, which calculates your CWB amount.