The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) offers vital support to low-income workers across the country. In 2025, singles may qualify for a base amount of up to $1,590, while families could receive as much as $2,739, with an additional disability supplement for eligible applicants.
With advance payments issued quarterly, many Canadians are getting support throughout the year—not just at tax time. Here’s your comprehensive guide to eligibility, how much you might receive, and when to expect payments.
Who Can Qualify for the CWB in 2025?
To be eligible for the CWB, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Be 19 years or older by December 31, unless you live with a spouse or eligible dependent
- Have working income above the basic threshold
- File taxes including Schedule 6 of your return
- Not be a full-time student for more than 13 weeks unless you have a dependent
- Not have served 90 days or more in prison during the year
- Not be tax-exempt as a foreign diplomat or similar
In working income and marital status, the CRA determines your eligibility and benefit amount based on adjusted net income thresholds.
How Much You Can Get
| Claim Type | Maximum Amount (2025) | Income Phase-Out Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Single (Basic) | $1,590 | Reduces above ~$26,149; phases out by ~$36,749 |
| Family (Basic) | $2,739 | Reduces above ~$29,833; phases out by ~$48,093 |
| Disability Supplement (Single) | $821 | Reduces above ~$36,748; phases out by ~$42,222 |
| Disability Supplement (Family) | $821 | Info based on number of qualifying spouses |
These figures depend on your province/territory of residence and may vary slightly.
When Are Payments Issued?
The Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) spreads your CWB (basic + disability, if eligible) across the year, instead of a lump sum:
- January 10, 2025
- July 11, 2025
- October 10, 2025
These advance payments help stabilize monthly finances and arrive automatically if your tax return is filed on time.
How to Apply & Receive the CWB
To claim the Canada Workers Benefit:
- File your tax return before November 1, 2025.
- Complete Schedule 6 to calculate the benefit amount.
- The amount flows to line 45300 of your T1 return.
- No separate application needed—CRA assesses eligibility and issues payments if you qualify.
If you’re also eligible for the Disability Tax Credit, you can claim the additional supplement via the same schedule.
Why Claiming the CWB Matters
- It’s a refundable tax credit, meaning it directly boosts your refund or offsets your tax owed.
- Advance quarterly payments ensure steady financial support year-round.
- Combined with other benefits like GST/HST credit or child benefit, it forms a key safety net.
For low-income Canadians, the 2025 Canada Workers Benefit can bring meaningful relief. With up to $1,590 for singles, $2,739 for families, and an $821 disability top-up, it rewards work with added stability.
Advance payments arriving on January 10, July 11, and October 10 help recipients maintain consistent support. Make sure to file your tax return with Schedule 6 before November to secure your benefit this year.
FAQs
Yes—if you file after the advance deadline, you may still receive your CWB as a lump sum after CRA processes your return, though it may not be on the next scheduled advance date.
No. The Canada Workers Benefit does not reduce Old Age Security or Canada Pension Plan benefits—it’s designed to complement them.
No. If your Disability Tax Credit is approved, you only need to fill Schedule 6 when filing your return; CRA calculates and includes the supplement automatically.