A fresh round of government payments is rolling out this July, offering a welcome financial lift for many low-income workers across Canada. The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is back for another payment cycle, and July 2025’s advance deposits bring higher payouts thanks to annual inflation adjustments by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
This month’s payments are based on your 2024 income tax return, which determines your eligibility and updated benefit amount. If your income or family status changed, this could significantly impact how much you receive under the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) program.
Understanding the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit designed to assist low-income working Canadians who are employed but still struggle with day-to-day expenses. It includes:
- A basic benefit for eligible individuals and families
- A disability supplement for qualified recipients
The CWB provides much-needed financial relief while encouraging continued workforce participation.
What Is the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB)?
The Advanced CWB allows eligible individuals to receive 50% of their total CWB benefit in advance, instead of waiting until tax season. These early payments are disbursed in three installments throughout the year.
If you’re eligible for the disability supplement, half of that amount is also included in these advance payments.
Key Points to Know:
- Payments are automatic for eligible taxpayers
- You must live in Canada on the first day of each payment quarter
- No separate application is required if you’ve filed your taxes
Who Qualifies for the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025?
To qualify for the CWB, you must meet the following:
- Be a resident of Canada throughout the tax year
- Be at least 19 years old by December 31 (or live with a spouse/partner or dependent child)
- Have earned income and a net income under specific provincial or territorial thresholds
Income Limits (2025 CWB Thresholds):
| Household Type | Maximum Net Income |
|---|---|
| Single | $36,749 |
| Family | $48,093 |
You Are Not Eligible If:
- You were a full-time student for more than 13 weeks (unless with a dependent)
- You were incarcerated for 90+ days
- You do not pay Canadian taxes (e.g., due to diplomatic status)
How the Disability Supplement Works
If you live with a disability, you may also qualify for an additional supplement.
Disability Supplement Eligibility Requirements:
- You must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- Your Form T2201 must be on file with the CRA
- Your net income must fall below higher, specific thresholds
| Household Type | Maximum Disability Supplement | Cut-Off Income |
|---|---|---|
| Single (eligible) | $821 | $42,222 |
| Family (1 eligible) | $821 | $53,565 |
| Family (2 eligible) | $1,642 | $59,038 |
How to Apply for the Canada Workers Benefit
You do not need a separate application for CWB. You simply:
- File your income taxes, either online or on paper
- For paper filers, include Schedule 6 in your return
- If applying for the disability supplement:
- Only one spouse can claim the basic benefit
- If both qualify for the DTC, each must file a Schedule 6
To qualify for advance payments, your return must be filed before November 1, 2025.
CWB and ACWB Payment Amounts for 2025
The actual amount you receive depends on your:
- Income
- Province or territory
- Family status
- Disability status
Base Benefit Amounts (2024 Tax Year):
| Category | Max CWB | Phase-Out Start | Cut-Off Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $1,590 | $26,149 | $36,749 |
| Family | $2,739 | $29,833 | $48,093 |
July 2025 Advance Payment Estimates:
- $265 for single individuals
- $456.50 for families (or individuals with dependents)
- +$136.83 if you qualify for the disability supplement
Note: These are federal amounts. Provinces such as Quebec, Alberta, and Nunavut may use different thresholds or formulas.
To get a precise estimate, use the CRA Benefits Calculator online.
Are CWB and Advance Payments Taxable?
No. The Canada Workers Benefit is non-taxable. It is a refundable credit, which means:
- It reduces the tax you owe
- If you owe nothing, you’ll still receive the full benefit as a refund
- Advance payments are also non-taxable
This makes it one of the most effective federal tools for supporting working Canadians on tight budgets.
When Will the CWB Be Paid?
The next Advance Canada Workers Benefit will be issued on Friday, July 11, 2025, directly into eligible recipients’ bank accounts.
Upcoming 2025–2026 ACWB Payment Schedule:
| Payment Period | Deposit Date |
|---|---|
| Q2 (July) | July 11, 2025 |
| Q3 (October) | October 10, 2025 |
| Q4 (January) | January 12, 2026 |
What to Do If You Haven’t Filed Taxes Yet
If you haven’t yet filed your 2024 tax return, you may miss out on advance payments but can still receive your full benefit when you file later.
Be sure to:
- File before November 1 to qualify for the ACWB
- Double-check your CRA profile for accuracy
- Use CRA tools to estimate your amount or check status
Conclusion: Expanded Support for Working Canadians
The Canada Workers Benefit continues to serve as a critical financial support program for low-income workers. With higher thresholds, automatic advance payments, and disability supplements, July 2025 marks a significant payout for many eligible individuals and families.
By simply filing your 2024 taxes on time, you can unlock quarterly payments that help reduce financial pressure throughout the year. If you’re uncertain about your eligibility or status, visit CRA’s official website or consult a certified tax advisor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Do I need to apply separately for the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit?
No. If you’re eligible and your taxes are filed before November 1, payments are sent automatically.
Q2. Can students receive the CWB?
Yes, but only if you were not a full-time student for more than 13 weeks, unless you support a dependent.
Q3. How do I check how much I’ll receive?
Use the CRA Benefits Calculator on the official website to estimate your benefit.
Q4. What happens if I miss the tax deadline?
You will not receive advance payments, but the full benefit will still be paid once you file your taxes.
Q5. Is the CWB available in Quebec and Nunavut?
Yes, but eligibility thresholds and payments vary. Refer to CRA’s provincial guidelines for exact amounts.