Canada Child Benefit payments increase takes effect today, millions of families to receive higher amounts

Higher Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments began rolling out today following the federal government's annual benefit adjustment. According to the Government of Canada, the increase is expected to benefit approximately 3.6 million families and about 6 million children across the country.

Under the updated benefit rates, eligible families can receive up to $8,157 annually for each child under the age of six, an increase of $160 from the previous benefit year. For children aged six to 17, the maximum annual payment has increased to $6,883, up $135 from last year.

According to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), families with an adjusted family net income of $38,237 or less are eligible for the maximum benefit. Payments are gradually reduced as family income rises above that threshold.

Families who have filed their income tax returns and are enrolled in direct deposit began receiving the increased payments in their bank accounts today. Payment status can be verified by logging into a CRA online account.

Prime Minister Mark Carney said the increased Canada Child Benefit payments are expected to support approximately 6 million children and help families manage the rising cost of raising children.