Working Canadians earning a modest income may qualify for a helpful financial boost through the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)—a refundable federal tax credit designed to support low-income individuals and families. In 2025, eligible individuals can receive up to $1,518, while families may receive up to $2,739. Additional support of up to $821 is also available for those living with a disability.

Whether you’re just entering the workforce, raising a family, or navigating a disability, the CWB is designed to make work pay off and help Canadians stay financially secure. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about eligibility, payment dates, benefit amounts, and how to apply for the 2025 CWB.

What Is the Canada Workers Benefit?

The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit. That means you can receive the benefit even if you owe no taxes. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the CWB aims to:

• Encourage continued workforce participation

• Support low-income individuals and families

• Provide extra assistance to people with disabilities

The benefit consists of two parts:

1. Basic Amount – Available to all eligible workers

2. Disability Supplement – For workers with a qualifying disability

CWB Amounts for 2025

Here’s what eligible Canadians can receive through the CWB in 2025:

If both partners in a household qualify for the disability supplement, the total benefit could exceed $3,500.

Payment Dates for 2025

The CRA distributes the CWB in two parts:

1. Advance Quarterly Payments

Eligible applicants can receive up to 50% of their estimated CWB amount through advance payments made on the following dates:

• January 10, 2025

• July 11, 2025

• October 10, 2025

To receive these payments, you must file your 2023 tax return by November 1, 2024.

2. Final Payment

The remainder of your CWB will be calculated and paid after you file your 2024 income tax return, due by April 30, 2025. This ensures your actual income is used to determine your final benefit amount.

Who Qualifies for the CWB in 2025?

You may be eligible if you meet the following conditions:

General Eligibility

• You’re a resident of Canada throughout 2024

• You’re 19 years or older by December 31, 2024, or live with a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child

• You earn working income of at least $3,000

• Your net income is below the following thresholds:

  • Individuals: Less than $26,149

  • Families: Less than $29,833

You Do Not Qualify If:

• You are a full-time student (unless you have an eligible dependent)

• You were in prison for 90 days or more during the year

• You did not earn employment or business income

Disability Supplement Eligibility

To receive the $821 disability supplement, you must:

• Qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)

• Have a valid DTC certificate on file with the CRA

This supplement is available to both single individuals and families. If both spouses qualify for the DTC, each person can receive the $821 supplement, further increasing the total benefit.

How to Apply for the CWB

There is no separate application form for the CWB. You receive it automatically when you file your annual income tax return, provided you meet the eligibility requirements.

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

1. File your 2024 tax return by April 30, 2025.

2. Complete Schedule 6 – This form calculates your benefit amount and disability supplement (if applicable).

3. Verify your DTC status – If you’re applying for the disability supplement, ensure the CRA has your up-to-date Disability Tax Credit certificate.

Most certified tax software will fill out the necessary forms for you automatically if you’re using NETFILE-compatible programs.

Tips for Maximizing Your Benefit

• Use the CWB Estimator – The CRA offers a helpful calculator that can estimate your potential benefit based on your income and family situation.

• Update Your Information – Make sure your address, marital status, and dependent information are current with the CRA.

• Check for Other Benefits – You may also be eligible for other federal credits like the GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit, or Climate Action Incentive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What if I miss the tax filing deadline?
You can still receive the CWB retroactively, but you will not be eligible for advance payments unless your return is filed by November 1 of the previous year.

Q2: Can both partners receive the disability supplement?
Yes. If both spouses qualify for the Disability Tax Credit, each may receive up to $821, increasing the total benefit for the household.

Q3: Is the CWB considered taxable income?
No. The CWB is a tax credit and does not count as taxable income.

Q4: Can I qualify if I’m self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed individuals with a minimum working income of $3,000 can qualify for the CWB.

Q5: Will receiving the CWB affect other benefits?
No. The CWB does not impact eligibility for other government programs such as Employment Insurance or the Canada Child Benefit.

Final Thoughts

The Canada Workers Benefit is a powerful financial tool designed to support Canadians who are working hard but earning modest incomes. With up to $1,518 for individuals and $2,739 for families, plus a generous $821 disability supplement, the CWB helps ensure that work is rewarded and financial stress is reduced.

Whether you’re single, raising a family, or living with a disability, filing your taxes and completing Schedule 6 is all it takes to access this valuable benefit. Make sure your information is up-to-date, meet the deadlines, and explore your eligibility so you can receive what you’re entitled to in 2025.

For thousands of Canadians, the CWB is more than just a tax credit—it’s a vital part of building financial security and stability. Don’t miss out. File your return, claim your benefit, and put money back in your pocket.