If you’re a parent in Canada or expecting to become one in 2025, it’s essential to understand the Canada CRA Parental Benefits Payment system.
These benefits are designed to alleviate the financial pressures of raising a child and provide the necessary support so you can focus on your growing family.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about eligibility, benefit amounts, payment dates, and how to apply for parental benefits in 2025.
Understanding Canada CRA Parental Benefits
Navigating the parental benefits in Canada can seem daunting, but the Canada CRA Parental Benefits Payment in 2025 makes it easier.
Through various programs, including EI maternity/parental leave and the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), the government supports families during the critical early stages of child development.
These benefits help ease financial stress, allowing parents to dedicate more time to their families.
Types of Benefits Available in 2025
| Benefit Type | Eligibility Requirements | Maximum Benefit (2025) | Payment Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| EI Maternity Benefits | Pregnant/new mothers with 600 hours of insured work | Up to $695/week for 15 weeks | Weekly (based on claim) |
| EI Parental Benefits (Standard) | New/adoptive parents with 600 hours of insured work | Up to $695/week for 35 weeks (shared up to 40 weeks) | Weekly |
| EI Parental Benefits (Extended) | Same as above | Up to $417/week for 61 weeks (shared up to 69 weeks) | Weekly |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Parents/guardians of children under 18, based on income | Up to $7,787/year (under 6); $6,570/year (ages 6–17) | Monthly |
What Are the Canada CRA Parental Benefits Payments?
Parental benefits are financial aids offered by the Government of Canada to assist new or expecting parents in taking time off from work to care for their newborns or newly adopted children.
There are two main types of benefits:
- Employment Insurance (EI) Maternity and Parental Benefits provided through Service Canada.
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
These benefits promote a balanced work-life scenario and help in nurturing child development during their early years.
1. EI Maternity and Parental Benefits (Through Service Canada)
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for EI maternity or parental benefits, applicants must:
- Be employed in insurable employment.
- Have worked at least 600 insurable hours within the past 52 weeks (or since their last EI claim).
- Experience a reduction of more than 40% in their weekly earnings due to maternity or parental responsibilities.
Maternity Benefits
Maternity benefits are available exclusively to biological mothers. These can be claimed up to 12 weeks before the expected due date and continue for a maximum of 15 weeks.
- Benefit Amount: 55% of average weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $695 per week in 2025.
Parental Benefits: Standard vs. Extended
When applying, parents must choose between two options: Standard or Extended parental benefits.
- Standard Parental Benefits
- Up to 40 weeks shared between parents (one parent can’t exceed 35 weeks).
- Benefit is 55% of average weekly earnings (max $695/week).
- Extended Parental Benefits
- Up to 69 weeks shared (one parent can’t exceed 61 weeks).
- Benefit is 33% of average weekly earnings (max $417/week).
The extended option provides flexibility by spreading the benefits over a longer period, though it offers a lower weekly amount.
Application Process
- Apply online via Service Canada once you stop working.
- Submit your Record of Employment (ROE).
- Choose between Standard and Extended benefits (you cannot change once selected).
- Provide your child’s date of birth or expected due date.
- Wait for approval and begin receiving payments.
2. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to assist with the cost of raising children under the age of 18.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CCB, applicants must:
- Live with the child and be their primary caregiver.
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- Meet one of the legal status requirements (citizen, permanent resident, protected person, etc.).
Note: Both parents must file their annual tax returns to remain eligible, even with zero income.
Payment Amounts for 2024-2025
- $7,787/year for each child under age 6.
- $6,570/year for each child aged 6 to 17.
These amounts are paid monthly, with $648.91/month for children under 6 and $547.50/month for children aged 6 to 17.
Payments are income-tested, meaning the benefit decreases as your adjusted family net income rises above $36,500.
2025 CCB Payment Schedule
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 20 |
| February | February 20 |
| March | March 20 |
| April | April 17 |
| May | May 20 |
| June | June 20 |
| July | July 18 |
| August | August 20 |
| September | September 19 |
| October | October 20 |
| November | November 20 |
| December | December 12 |
Practical Tips for Parents
To make the most of your parental benefits, here are some practical tips:
- Plan ahead: If you’re expecting a child or adopting, start tracking your hours early to ensure you meet the 600-hour eligibility threshold.
- Budget carefully: Weigh the pros and cons of standard vs. extended parental leave to find the option that best suits your financial situation.
- Apply early: Submit your applications as soon as possible to avoid delays in receiving payments.
- Use direct deposit: Direct deposit is faster and more secure than receiving paper checks.
- Keep records: Always save your ROEs, benefit letters, and any other correspondence with Service Canada and CRA for future reference.
The Canada CRA Parental Benefits Payment in 2025 provides essential financial support to families during important early stages of child development.
Whether you are taking maternity leave, shared parental leave, or receiving the Canada Child Benefit, these programs are designed to alleviate financial strain and help you focus on your family.
Be sure to follow the guidelines, track your hours, and apply early to ensure a smooth process in receiving your benefits.
FAQs
How do I qualify for Canada CRA Parental Benefits?
To qualify, you must be employed in insurable work and have worked at least 600 insurable hours in the past 52 weeks. Your weekly earnings must be reduced by more than 40% due to maternity or parental duties.
What is the maximum weekly benefit for EI Parental Benefits in 2025?
For Standard Parental Benefits, the maximum weekly benefit is $695, while for Extended Parental Benefits, it’s $417.
When do the CCB payments start for a new child?
The first Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment is typically made in the month following your child’s birth or adoption, but you must have filed your tax returns to remain eligible.
Can I change from Standard to Extended Parental Benefits?
No, once you select between Standard or Extended benefits, you cannot change the option during the claim period.