The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) continues to offer much-needed financial support for low-income earners across the country. As part of its 2025 rollout, eligible Canadians can receive a one-time advance payment of up to $566 in May 2025, helping to offset monthly expenses and ease cost-of-living pressures.
Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this refundable tax credit plays a key role in Canada’s social support system—providing timely assistance to individuals and families who are working but still face financial hardship.
What Is the Canada Workers Benefit?
The Canada Workers Benefit is a federal refundable tax credit targeted at low-income Canadians. Unlike many tax benefits, the CWB is refundable—meaning that even if you owe no taxes, you can still receive a direct payment if eligible.
For the 2025 benefit year, qualified recipients may receive:
- Up to $1,428 for single individuals
- Up to $2,461 for families
- An additional $737 as a disability supplement, if eligible
The May 2025 advance payment offers a partial disbursement—up to $566—to help recipients manage day-to-day financial demands ahead of tax time.
Who Qualifies for the CWB in 2025?
To qualify for the Canada Workers Benefit, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Age and Residency Requirements
- Be at least 19 years old by May 31, 2025
OR live with a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child - Be a Canadian resident for the entire tax year
2. Income Thresholds
Your adjusted net income must fall below the following levels:
- Single individuals: Below $33,015
- Families: Below $43,212
3. Exclusions: Who Is Not Eligible
You do not qualify if:
- You are a full-time student for more than 13 weeks (unless you have dependents)
- You were incarcerated for 90 days or more during the year
- Your earnings do not meet the CRA’s definition of “earned income”
How to Apply for the May 2025 CWB Payment
Applying for the Canada Workers Benefit is straightforward, but it requires careful attention to deadlines and documentation.
Step 1: File Your Tax Return
- File your 2024 income tax return
- Complete Schedule 6 to calculate your CWB eligibility
Even if you have no taxable income, filing is still required to receive the benefit.
Step 2: Request Advance Payments
To receive the advance payment:
- Fill out Form RC201 to estimate your benefit entitlement
- Submit via:
- CRA My Account (fastest option)
- Mail: Send Form RC201 to the CRA
Step 3: Keep Your Information Current
Make sure to update the CRA if you experience changes in:
- Marital status
- Number of dependents
- Annual income
Failing to do so may result in overpayments or missed benefits.
Payment Summary: Key Amounts and Timeline
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Max CWB (single) | $1,428 |
| Max CWB (family) | $2,461 |
| Disability Supplement | $737 |
| Advance Payment (May) | Up to $566 |
| CRA Form Required | Schedule 6 + RC201 |
| Next Payment Date | May 10, 2025 |
Tips to Maximize Your CWB Benefit
To ensure you receive the maximum eligible amount:
- File early to avoid payment delays
- Double-check your tax return and forms for accuracy
- Monitor your CRA My Account regularly for updates
- Keep digital or paper records of all submitted forms and communication
Important Dates for 2025
The CRA issues three CWB advance payments each year. For the 2025 cycle:
- January 10, 2025
- May 10, 2025
- July 11, 2025
These advance payments allow workers to receive financial support throughout the year, not just at tax time.
Understanding the Disability Supplement
The $737 disability supplement is added for individuals who meet CRA’s disability criteria. To receive it:
- You must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- File a completed and approved Form T2201 with the CRA
- Once eligible, the supplement is automatically applied
Couples with one or both partners qualifying may receive the supplement based on their specific eligibility status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the deadline to apply for the May 2025 CWB payment?
There is no separate deadline, but your 2024 tax return and required forms should be submitted before early spring 2025, to allow CRA processing before the May 10 disbursement.
Q2. Can I still get the CWB if I don’t owe taxes?
Yes. The CWB is fully refundable, so even if you owe zero tax, you can still receive the benefit if eligible.
Q3. Do both spouses need to apply?
No. Only one person in a household needs to apply. However, the entire family’s income is used to determine benefit eligibility.
Q4. Will everyone receive the full $566?
No. The amount depends on your 2024 income and family circumstances. The $566 is the maximum advance; your actual payment may be lower.
Q5. Can I receive the disability supplement automatically?
You’ll need to be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). Once approved, the $737 supplement will be automatically included.