With inflation still squeezing household budgets, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of bigger federal payouts for Canadians. From disability supports to tax credits, several government programs are being boosted — with some individuals set to receive over \$2,200 from just one benefit alone.
The flagship increase comes through the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), a new monthly payment for working-age adults with disabilities. But that’s only one part of a broader set of federal supports, including the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB), Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST Credit, and Old Age Security (OAS) adjustments. Together, these programs could mean thousands in additional income for eligible Canadians in 2025.
The \$2,200 Canada Disability Benefit – What’s Changing
The CDB launches in July 2025 and offers up to \$200 per month — or \$2,400 annually — for Canadians aged 18–64 who hold an approved Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
The payment is income-tested, ensuring the highest support goes to those with the lowest earnings. For many, this benefit will not only provide much-needed financial breathing room but also unlock access to other programs, like the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and the disability supplement within the CWB.
Quick Snapshot of 2025 Federal Support Programs
Program | Maximum Annual Benefit | First Payment in 2025 | Key Eligibility |
---|---|---|---|
Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) | \$2,400 | July 2025 | 18–64, DTC-approved, filed 2024 taxes |
Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) | \$2,739 | July 2025 | Low-income workers |
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | \$8,000+ (for 2 children) | July 18, 2025 | Families with children under 18 |
GST/HST Credit | \$698 + per-child top-ups | July 4, 2025 | Low/moderate-income households |
Old Age Security (OAS) | Quarterly 1% boost | July 2025 | Seniors 65+, meet residency/income rules |
CDB Eligibility – The Must-Haves
To receive the Canada Disability Benefit, applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 64 years old.
- Hold an approved Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
- File their 2024 income tax return.
- Reside in Canada at the time of payment.
Those already approved for the DTC may also be eligible for retroactive payments dating back to June 2025.
Step One – Securing the Disability Tax Credit
If you don’t yet have DTC approval, this is your first move:
- Consult your medical practitioner to complete Form T2201.
- Submit the form through CRA My Account or by mail.
- Wait for CRA approval — processing can take several weeks.
DTC approval doesn’t just open the door to the CDB; it can also qualify you for the CWB disability supplement, certain provincial programs, and other federal tax measures.
Boosting Incomes for Low-Wage Workers – The Canada Workers Benefit
The CWB provides a direct top-up for eligible workers with modest incomes. For 2025:
- Singles can receive up to \$1,590.
- Families can receive up to \$2,739.
- A disability supplement adds up to \$821 for those with DTC approval.
Example: Jane earns \$20,000 annually and has DTC status. She could get:
- \$1,590 (base CWB) + \$821 (disability supplement) = \$2,411.
Add in the CDB and GST credit, and her total annual support could easily exceed \$5,000.
Families – The Canada Child Benefit Increase
In 2025, the CCB remains one of Canada’s most substantial tax-free benefits. Payments are income-based, with lower-income families receiving the most.
Maximum annual rates for 2025:
- Under 6 years old: \$666/month per child.
- Ages 6–17: \$562/month per child.
A family with two young children could receive over \$8,000 in CCB payments alone.
To ensure you receive it:
- File your 2024 taxes on time.
- Keep marital status and child details current with CRA.
- Track deposits through CRA My Account.
GST/HST Credit – Quarterly Relief
The GST/HST Credit is paid four times a year to help offset sales tax costs for low- and middle-income Canadians.
2025 maximums:
- Singles: \$533/year.
- Couples: \$698/year.
- Each child under 19: \$184 extra.
It’s automatic if you qualify and file your taxes — no separate application is needed.
Seniors – OAS and More in 2025
For Canadians aged 65 and older, the Old Age Security pension gets a 1% increase in July 2025 to keep pace with inflation. Those aged 75+ will continue receiving the 10% boost first introduced in 2022.
Seniors should also review eligibility for:
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for low-income pensioners.
- Allowance for the Survivor for widows/widowers aged 60–64.
- Home Accessibility Tax Credit for renovations that improve home safety or accessibility.
How to Prepare Now for 2025 Payments
To ensure you get every dollar you’re entitled to:
- File your 2024 taxes on time — it’s the gateway to nearly all benefits.
- Apply for the DTC now if you’re eligible.
- Keep your CRA profile updated with current contact, marital, and banking details.
- Use CRA calculators to estimate benefits and plan your budget.
Why This Matters
With programs like the CDB launching alongside enhancements to existing benefits, 2025 is set to deliver one of the most significant federal support boosts in recent years. For Canadians living with disabilities, working in low-wage jobs, raising children, or entering retirement, these payments could be the difference between financial strain and stability.