The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit designed to support low-income workers in Canada. Advance payments are issued quarterly, with the upcoming payment scheduled for today, January 10, 2025.
How much you can get :
Single Individuals: Eligible singles can receive a maximum annual basic amount of $1,518. This amount begins to phase out when adjusted net income exceeds $24,975 and is completely phased out at $35,095. Advance payments distribute up to 50% of the annual benefit over three installments. Therefore, each payment could be up to approximately $253.
Families (Couples or Single Parents): Eligible families can receive a maximum annual basic amount of $2,616. This amount starts to reduce when adjusted family net income surpasses $28,494 and phases out entirely at $45,934. Advance payments for families could be up to approximately $436 per installment.
Disability Supplement: Individuals eligible for the disability tax credit may receive an additional annual amount of $784. This supplement begins to phase out at an adjusted net income of $35,098 for singles and $45,932 for families. Advance payments for the disability supplement could be up to approximately $130.66 per installment.
Advance Payment Schedule:
Advance payments are typically issued on:
July 12
October 11
January 10
If you do not receive your payment on the expected date, please wait 10 working days before contacting the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
If you do not receive your payment on the expected date, please wait 10 working days before contacting the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Note: The exact amount you receive depends on your specific income and family situation. For a personalized estimate, you can use the CRA’s child and family benefits calculator.
Who is eligible for Canada Workers Benefit ?
Eligibility for the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) depends on your income, employment status, and other factors. Here’s a breakdown:
- Be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes throughout the year.
- Earn employment or business income in the year.
You Must Also Meet One of the Following:
- Be 18 years of age or older on December 31 of the year.
- If under 18, live with a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child.
You Are Not Eligible If:
- You are a full-time student for more than 13 weeks during the year (unless you have an eligible dependent).
- You are incarcerated for at least 90 consecutive days in the year.
- You do not have an income (employment, business, or self-employment).
How To Claim Canada Workers Benefit ?
To claim the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB), follow these steps:
1. File Your Income Tax and Benefit Return
- You must file a tax return, even if you have no income to report.
- For most individuals, this is Form T1 – General Income Tax and Benefit Return.
- The CWB is calculated based on your reported income.
2. Complete the Required Schedule
On your tax return:
- Fill out Schedule 6 (Canada Workers Benefit).
- This form calculates the amount you are eligible to receive.
- Ensure you indicate if you qualify for the disability supplement.
3. Choose Advance Payments (Optional)
If you want to receive part of your benefit in advance:
- Apply using Form RC201 (Canada Workers Benefit Advance Payments Application).
- Submit the form to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) by the last day of the month in April for payments in the current tax year.
- Advance payments are issued quarterly in July, October, January, and April.
4. Include Your Spouse/Common-Law Partner (if applicable)
If you’re married or in a common-law relationship:
- You and your spouse/partner must file separate tax returns.
- You and your spouse/partner must file separate tax returns.
- Only one of you can claim the basic CWB amount, but both can claim the disability supplement if eligible.
5. Receive Your Payment
Once processed, the CRA will send your CWB payment:
- As a lump sum after you file your tax return.
- Or as quarterly advance payments if you opted for them.
For more details and forms, visit the CRA website.
