In July 2025, millions of Canadians received a welcome financial boost as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) rolled out increases across five major benefit programs. These enhancements — along with the introduction of the new Canada Disability Benefit — aim to provide critical financial support amid persistently high costs of living, from groceries and rent to energy and childcare.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s changed, who qualifies, and when the next payments are scheduled.
Table of Contents
GST/HST Credit Sees 2.7% Increase
The Goods and Services Tax / Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit is a tax-free quarterly payment designed to offset sales tax expenses for lower- and modest-income Canadians.
Updated Annual Maximums:
- Singles: Up to $533
- Couples: Up to $698
- Per child under 19: $184
Eligibility Criteria:
The credit is calculated based on:
- Adjusted family net income (AFNI)
- Marital status
- Number of children
Temporary residents and newcomers may also qualify under certain conditions. If you filed a 2024 tax return, payments are made automatically.
Upcoming GST/HST Payment Dates:
- October 3, 2025
- January 5, 2026
- April 3, 2026
Advance Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) Raised for Low-Income Workers
The Advance Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) helps working individuals and families with low incomes manage their cash flow by providing up to half of the full Canada Workers Benefit in advance.
New Maximum Annual Amounts (2025):
- Singles: $1,428
- Families: $2,461
- Additional amounts apply for those eligible for the disability supplement
Advance Payment Schedule:
- October 10, 2025
- January 9, 2026
Eligibility is based on income and working status, and recipients must have filed a 2024 tax return.
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Increased to Support Families
Parents with children under 18 saw a 2.7% increase in their Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments starting January 2025. The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment supporting families with the costs of raising children.
Updated Maximum Yearly Amounts:
- Children under 6: $7,997
- Children aged 6–17: $6,748
For example, a family with two children under 6 could receive up to $15,994 annually if their income is below the threshold.
Next Payment Date:
- October 20, 2025
Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) Adjusted for Inflation
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) combines three provincial credits into one monthly payment:
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit
Maximum Annual Payments (2025):
- Sales Tax Credit: $371 per person
- Energy and Property Tax Credit (seniors): Up to $1,459
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit: Up to $284
OTB continues to be a vital support for Ontario households facing high energy and housing costs.
Next OTB Payment:
- October 10, 2025
CPP and OAS Payments Up for Canadian Seniors
Retired Canadians received a 2.7% increase in both Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) payments starting in January 2025.
CPP Retirement Pension (at age 65):
- Maximum: $1,433/month
- Average: Around $900/month
OAS Monthly Payments:
- Ages 65–74: $727.67
- Ages 75 and over: $800.44
Additional Support:
Low-income seniors may also receive up to $1,086.88 monthly through the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
Next CPP and OAS Payment Date:
- September 26, 2025
New for 2025: Canada Disability Benefit Officially Launched
In January 2025, the federal government introduced the Canada Disability Benefit, aimed at supporting low-income Canadians with disabilities. This marks a significant expansion of Canada’s social safety net, helping to reduce poverty and improve financial security for disabled individuals across the country.
Details about payment amounts and eligibility are expected to expand over time, and the benefit is administered by the CRA alongside other federal supports.
You Could Still Qualify for a New $200 Government Benefit This October – Here’s How to Apply
How to Ensure You Receive Your Payments on Time
To avoid delays or missed payments:
- File your taxes each year — even if you have no income
- Keep your CRA My Account information updated
- Sign up for direct deposit to receive funds faster
Final Thoughts
With increases to five key benefit programs and the launch of the new Canada Disability Benefit, 2025 is proving to be a pivotal year for financial support in Canada. As costs remain high, these enhancements are helping households stay afloat, especially those with lower or fixed incomes.