If you’ve just arrived in Canada and have kids, listen up, this one’s important. The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment from the Canadian government to help parents with the cost of raising kids under 18. But it doesn’t land in your bank account automatically—you need to apply to start getting it.

Who Qualifies for the Canada Child Benefit?

You qualify for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) if:
✅ You are primarily responsible for a child under 18 and live in Canada.
✅ You are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or a temporary resident who has lived in Canada for at least 18 months with a valid permit in the 19th month.
✅ Your family’s net income is below a certain threshold—but don’t stress, this doesn’t mean you have to be struggling to qualify.

For example, in British Columbia, families earning up to $140,000 per year may still receive up to $3,000 annually per child. The income cut-off varies by province, and some additional benefits might be available depending on where you live. Bottom line: even if you’re earning a decent salary, you might still qualify for something, so it’s always worth checking.

How Much Can You Get for the Canada Child Benefit?

If your household income is below $36,502, you’ll get the full CCB amount:

• $7,787 per child under 6 years old (around $648.91 per month).
• $6,570 per child aged 6 to 17 (around $547.50 per month).

But here’s the kicker—even if your income is higher, you can still qualify for partial payments. Some families earning over $140,000 per year may still get something, just at a reduced rate.

To see how much you’re in for, check the CRA’s Child and Family Benefits Calculator.

Why Apply For the Canada Child Benefit?

The CCB is free money—and it’s completely tax-free. Whether it helps with groceries, daycare fees, school supplies, or just keeping up with the costs of raising kids, this is money you don’t want to leave on the table.

Many South African immigrants don’t even realize they’re eligible for these payments. But if you don’t apply, you don’t get it—and you could be missing out on thousands of dollars per year.

How to Apply for the Canada Child benefit

Applying for the Canada Child Benefit is pretty straightforward:

✔ Online through your CRA My Account.

✔ By Mail by completing and submitting the RC66 Canada Child Benefits Application.

Need a hand? We made a step-by-step YouTube video to walk you through the whole process:

📺 How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit

Important Resources

📌 General CCB Information: Canada Child Benefit Overview

📌 Eligibility Details: Who Can Apply

📌 Application Timing: When to Apply

📌 Application Process: How to Apply

📌 Application Form RC66: Download Here

📌 Additional Form RC66SCH: Download Here

📌 Document Submission: CRA My Account