The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) remains one of the most vital support programs for low-income working Canadians. In 2025, this refundable tax credit continues to provide much-needed financial relief for eligible individuals and families, with the potential to receive up to $2,739 for families and $1,518 for singles. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how it works, who qualifies, payment dates, and tips to ensure you get the full benefit.
Advance Payment Schedule for 2025
Eligible individuals can receive up to 50% of their total CWB in advance—spread across three key payment dates. These advance payments are sent automatically to those approved in the previous year.
| Payment Date | Advance Installment |
|---|---|
| January 10 | First Payment |
| July 11 | Second Payment |
| October 10 | Third Payment |
The remaining amount is issued as part of your 2025 tax refund, typically received during the 2026 tax season after filing your return.
Who Qualifies for the CWB in 2025?
To receive the CWB, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Be at least 19 years old by December 31, 2025
- Be a Canadian resident for the full year
- Have earned working income through employment or self-employment
However, you are not eligible if any of the following apply:
- You were a full-time student for more than 13 weeks without a dependant
- You were incarcerated for 90 days or more
- You are a foreign diplomat or someone with tax-exempt status
Disability Supplement Eligibility
A disability supplement is available for those with additional support needs. To qualify:
- You must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- A Form T2201 must be on file and approved by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
If both spouses qualify, each may claim the disability supplement, increasing total household support.
How to Apply and Receive CWB
The process of getting the CWB is simple but requires proper tax filing:
- File your 2025 tax return—even if your income is too low to owe taxes
- Complete Schedule 6 in your return—this calculates your CWB amount
- Submit the return via NETFILE, tax software, or by paper
- If CRA approved you in 2024, you’ll automatically receive advance payments in 2025
Real-Life Example: Daniel and Priya’s CWB Story
Let’s consider a typical example:
Daniel and Priya, a couple living in Nova Scotia with one child:
- Daniel works as a delivery driver, earning $18,500
- Priya works part-time, earning $9,000
- Their combined income is $27,500
After filing their taxes and completing Schedule 6, they qualify for the full $2,739 family CWB. Their payments from CRA are broken down as:
- $456 in January
- $456 in July
- $456 in October
- The remaining amount is included in their 2025 tax refund in spring 2026
They use the funds to manage essential expenses like groceries and childcare, making CWB a crucial support tool in their household budget.
Maximizing Your CWB: Essential Tips
To ensure you receive the full benefit you’re eligible for, follow these best practices:
- Always file your taxes, even if you earned very little
- If applying for the disability supplement, complete Form T2201 early
- Keep your CRA account updated—especially marital status and mailing address
- Use the CRA’s CWB calculator to estimate your benefit ahead of time
- If your income has recently dropped, recheck your eligibility—you might now qualify even if you didn’t before
CWB Helps Workers Across All Situations
Whether you’re a single low-income worker, part of a working couple with children, or living with a disability, the Canada Workers Benefit can help ease the financial burden. It’s more than just a tax refund—it’s a powerful tool for economic security and stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How much is the CWB in 2025?
A: Up to $2,739 for families and $1,518 for singles.
Q2: When will advance CWB payments be sent?
A: On January 10, July 11, and October 10, 2025.
Q3: Do I need to owe tax to get CWB?
A: No, the CWB is fully refundable—you can receive it even if you owe nothing.
Q4: Can both spouses receive the disability supplement?
A: Yes, if both are eligible for the Disability Tax Credit.
Q5: What form do I file to receive the CWB?
A: Complete and submit Schedule 6 with your 2025 tax return.