John Hughie
In July 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) implemented increases to five major federal benefits. These changes aim to provide extra relief to families, seniors, low-income workers, and people with disabilities amid inflation and tax reforms.
With cost of living pressures on the rise, these enhanced payments mark a significant boost for millions of Canadians.
Below is a full breakdown of the updated benefit amounts, eligibility requirements, and payment dates you need to know.
Updated CRA Benefit Payments – July 2025
| Benefit Name | Payment Date | New Maximum Amount |
|---|---|---|
| GST/HST Credit | July 4 | $133.25 (Single), $174.50 (Couple), $46/Child |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | July 18 | $666 (Under 6), $562 (Ages 6–17) |
| Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) | July 11 | $1,633 (Single), $2,813 (Family), $843 (Disability) |
| Old Age Security (OAS) | July 29 | ~$735 (Ages 65–74), ~$808 (75+) |
| Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) | July (TBA) | Up to $200/month ($2,400/year) |
1. GST/HST Credit – Increased from July 4
The GST/HST credit is a quarterly, tax-free payment meant to reduce sales tax costs for low- and middle-income families.
- New Rates (July 2025):
- $133.25 for a single person
- $174.50 for couples
- $46 per child under 19
Eligibility:
Based on your 2024 tax return and family income. No reapplication is needed; CRA deposits the payment automatically.
2. Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – Higher Rates from July 18
The CCB helps parents with the cost of raising children. It’s income-tested and paid monthly.
- New Monthly Rates:
- $666 for children under 6
- $562 for children aged 6 to 17
To qualify, your 2024 tax return must be filed, and benefits are recalculated annually based on income and family size.
3. Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) – Paid July 11
The ACWB provides advance payments to low-income workers, issued in three installments per year.
- New Maximums (2025–26):
- $1,633 (single)
- $2,813 (family)
- Additional $843 for eligible disabled workers
Installment Dates:
- July 11, October 2025, and January 2026
- Based on your 2024 income and CRA assessment
4. Old Age Security (OAS) – Revised Amounts for July–September
OAS is a monthly pension for Canadians aged 65+, adjusted quarterly in line with Consumer Price Index (CPI) changes.
- July 2025 Rates:
- ~$735 for ages 65 to 74
- ~$808 for ages 75 and above
Eligibility:
- Must be 65 or older
- Meet residency and legal requirements
- Once approved, no need to reapply
5. Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) – Launched July 2025
A brand-new benefit, CDB supports low-income Canadians with disabilities.
- Monthly Amount: Up to $200 per month
- Annual Total: Up to $2,400
To Qualify:
- Must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- Apply before June 30, 2025
- Benefit amount depends on adjusted family income
Why These Increases Happened
These benefit increases stem from multiple policy changes and economic factors:
- Inflation Adjustment: A 2.7% CPI-linked increase applied to most benefits
- Income Tax Reform: Federal tax rates dropped to 14% in July 2025, influencing benefit calculations
- Mid-Year Recalculations: July is the standard recalibration month for CCB and GST/HST
- OAS Quarterly Adjustments: OAS adjusts every three months to match inflation
- New CDB Launch: This marks a permanent support initiative for Canadians with disabilities
Important Tips to Keep in Mind
- File your 2024 tax return on time to avoid delays
- Keep your CRA My Account details updated, including banking info
- Wait 5–10 business days after payment dates before contacting CRA about delays
- All benefits are tax-free, though some may affect other income-tested programs
The CRA’s decision to increase five key benefits in July 2025 reflects a strong commitment to supporting vulnerable Canadians. Whether you’re a parent, senior, worker, or disabled individual, there’s likely some added support available for you this month.
These updates are more than adjustments—they’re lifelines for families navigating high costs and economic uncertainty.
Be sure to stay informed and take full advantage of these tax-free benefits by maintaining your eligibility and keeping your CRA records up to date.
FAQs
When will the new CRA benefit amounts begin?
All revised benefits begin in July 2025, with specific dates depending on the program.
Do I need to reapply for these benefits?
No. If you filed your 2024 tax return and qualify, payments are automatic.
What is the new Canada Disability Benefit?
It’s a new monthly payment of up to $200 for low-income Canadians with disabilities, starting in July 2025.
