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Navigating the landscape of government benefits in Canada can be complex, but understanding what’s available and how to access these programs is crucial.
As of June 2025, several federal and provincial benefits are in place to support Canadians across various life stages and circumstances.
This guide provides an overview of these benefits, including eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and application processes.
1. Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS)
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a contributory, earnings-related social insurance program that provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits to eligible Canadians.
To qualify, individuals must be at least 60 years old and have made at least one valid contribution to the CPP.
The standard age to begin receiving the retirement pension is 65, but benefits can start as early as 60 with a reduction or be deferred up to age 70 for increased payments.
Old Age Security (OAS) is a monthly payment available to Canadians aged 65 and older who meet the residency requirements.
As of June 2025, seniors aged 75 and over receive a 10% increase in their OAS payments, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting retirees amid rising living costs.
The combined maximum monthly payment for CPP and OAS can reach up to $2,166, depending on individual circumstances .
2. Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and Provincial Supplements
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help with the cost of raising children under 18. Payment amounts are based on the number of children and the family’s net income.
For the benefit period of July 2024 to June 2025, payments are scheduled monthly, with the next payment on June 20, 2025 .
In British Columbia, the B.C. Family Benefit provides additional monthly payments to families with children under 18.
For the July 2024 to June 2025 period, eligible families receive up to $2,188 for the first child, $1,375 for the second, and $1,125 for each additional child. Low-income single-parent families may also receive an annual supplement of up to $500 .
3. Goods and Services Tax (GST)/Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) Credit
The GST/HST Credit is a tax-free quarterly payment that helps individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset all or part of the GST or HST they pay.
The next payment is scheduled for July 4, 2025 . Eligibility and payment amounts are based on family income and size.
4. Employment Insurance (EI)
Employment Insurance (EI) provides temporary financial assistance to unemployed Canadians who have lost their job through no fault of their own and are actively seeking employment.
As of March 2025, approximately 497,000 Canadians were receiving regular EI benefits, reflecting a 6.0% increase from the previous year .
Eligibility depends on factors such as the number of insurable hours worked and the regional unemployment rate.
5. Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit that provides financial support to low-income individuals and families who are in the workforce.
Advance payments are issued quarterly, with the next payment scheduled for July 11, 2025 . Eligibility and benefit amounts are determined based on income and family situation.
6. Canadian Dental Care Plan
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a government-funded program providing dental coverage to uninsured Canadians with a net family income of less than $90,000.
The program is being rolled out in phases, with applications opening to various age groups throughout 2024 and 2025.
Eligible individuals will receive a letter inviting them to apply, and once enrolled, coverage will be provided through Sun Life Financial .
7. Canada Disability Benefit
The Canada Disability Benefit is a new income-tested benefit aimed at reducing poverty and supporting the financial security of working-age persons with disabilities.
The benefit is designed to supplement existing federal and provincial programs, and eligibility criteria are based on income and disability status .
8. One-Time $928 CRA Payment
In 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is issuing a one-time, non-taxable payment of $928 to eligible individuals earning less than $25,000 annually and families earning under $60,000.
This payment is tied to the 2024 income tax return, and no application is required; eligible recipients will receive the payment automatically .
9. Alberta Seniors Benefit
The Alberta Seniors Benefit provides monthly payments to low-income seniors to supplement federal income sources, such as OAS and GIS.
To be eligible, individuals must be 65 years or older, have lived in Alberta for at least three months before applying, and meet financial eligibility criteria .
10. Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
The Ontario Trillium Benefit combines three credits: the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, the Northern Ontario Energy Credit, and the Ontario Sales Tax Credit. Payments are made monthly, with the next payment scheduled for June 10, 2025 .
Eligibility is based on income, age, and residency status.
Key Benefits
| Benefit Name | Eligibility Criteria | Payment Amount/Date | Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | Age 60+, with valid contributions | Up to $1,306/month; next payment: June 26, 2025 | Apply through Service Canada |
| Old Age Security (OAS) | Age 65+, meeting residency requirements | Up to $1,946/month; next payment: June 26, 2025 | Automatic or apply through Service Canada |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Families with children under 18 | Varies based on income; next payment: June 20, 2025 | Automatic upon filing taxes |
| GST/HST Credit | Low to moderate-income individuals and families | Quarterly payments; next payment: July 4, 2025 | Automatic upon filing taxes |
| Employment Insurance (EI) | Unemployed individuals meeting criteria | Varies based on earnings | Apply through Service Canada |
| Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) | Low-income workers | Quarterly payments; next payment: July 11, 2025 | Automatic upon filing taxes |
| Canadian Dental Care Plan | Uninsured Canadians with income < $90,000 | Coverage varies; phased rollout in 2024-2025 | Invitation to apply; enrollment through Sun Life |
| Canada Disability Benefit | Working-age persons with disabilities | Amount varies based on income | Application details to be announced |
| $928 CRA Payment | Individuals earning < $25,000; families < $60,000 | One-time $928 payment | Automatic upon filing 2024 taxes |
| Alberta Seniors Benefit | Alberta residents aged 65+ with low income | Monthly payments; amount varies | Apply through Alberta government |
| Ontario Trillium Benefit | Ontario residents meeting income criteria | Monthly payments; next payment: June 10, 2025 | Automatic upon filing taxes |
Staying informed about available government benefits is essential to maximizing your financial well-being.
By understanding eligibility criteria and application processes, you can ensure you receive the support you’re entitled to.
Regularly reviewing updates from official government sources will help you stay current with any changes to benefit programs.
FAQs
How do I apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
To receive the CCB, you must file your income tax return annually. Eligibility is automatically assessed based on your tax return information. If you have a newborn or are new to Canada, you can apply through the CRA’s My Account or by submitting Form RC66.
Am I eligible for the $928 one-time CRA payment in 2025?
If your individual income is less than $25,000 or your family income is under $60,000, and you filed your 2024 tax return by April 30, 2025, you are eligible. No application is necessary; the CRA will issue the payment automatically.
When will I receive my next CPP or OAS payment?
The next scheduled payment date for both CPP and OAS is June 26, 2025. Payments are typically made on the last business day of each month.