The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is getting a major spotlight in 2025—and for good reason. With the cost of living pushing more working Canadians to the financial edge, this federal program is stepping in with quarterly payments of up to $1,428. That’s $5,712 a year straight into the pockets of eligible low-income earners.
If you’re working hard but your income feels like it’s barely stretching, the CWB might be just the support you need. Here’s what it is, who qualifies, and how to make sure you don’t miss a single payment.
Table of Contents
Overview
The CWB is a refundable tax credit designed to help low-income workers keep more of their earnings. It rewards employment and helps reduce poverty by providing extra income throughout the year. Unlike some government benefits that come in a lump sum after tax season, the CWB spreads the support across the calendar with quarterly deposits.
It’s ideal for people living paycheck to paycheck who need timely cash flow for essentials like groceries, bills, and rent.
Schedule
The CRA has confirmed the 2025 quarterly payment dates and the maximum payment amounts. Here’s the breakdown:
| Quarter | Payment Date | Amount (Up to) |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | January 15, 2025 | $1,428 |
| Q2 | April 15, 2025 | $1,428 |
| Q3 | July 15, 2025 | $1,428 |
| Q4 | October 15, 2025 | $1,428 |
Payments are direct deposited for faster access, and while $1,428 is the max, the actual amount depends on your income, marital status, and whether you qualify for the disability supplement.
Eligibility
To get the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025, you need to meet some key requirements:
- Be a resident of Canada all year
- Be at least 19 years old by December 31, 2024 (or live with a spouse/partner or dependent)
- Have earned income from employment
- Not be a full-time student for more than 13 weeks (unless supporting a child)
- Not be incarcerated for more than 90 days in the year
As for income, here are the general thresholds:
| Status | Max Income to Qualify |
|---|---|
| Individual | Around $33,000 |
| Family | Up to $50,000 combined |
If your income is below these limits, there’s a good chance you qualify.
Supplement
There’s also an extra bonus for those who live with a disability and qualify for the Disability Tax Credit. In 2025, this supplement can add up to $737 to your benefit total.
To qualify:
- You must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit
- You must meet the CWB income and other eligibility requirements
That means a disabled worker could receive up to $6,449 in total from CWB payments in 2025.
Benefits
Why is this quarterly model such a game-changer?
- You don’t have to wait until tax season for help
- Payments come in when people typically need them most
- It gives you flexibility to manage bills, groceries, and emergencies
- It’s predictable and easy to track
- It encourages continued employment
It’s one of the few programs that recognizes people who work hard but still struggle to stay ahead financially.
Application
The good news? You don’t need to do much to get started.
Most people are automatically assessed when they file their tax return. However, if you want those advance payments every quarter instead of waiting for a refund:
- File your 2024 tax return early
- Complete Schedule 6 (CWB section)
- Opt in for advance payments
- Keep your income and personal info updated on CRA MyAccount
If your marital status, income, or job situation changes, you should update your CRA details quickly to avoid overpayments or interruptions.
The Canada Workers Benefit is one of the most valuable federal support programs for workers earning modest incomes. With quarterly payments of up to $1,428 now confirmed for 2025, it brings real financial relief in a year marked by high inflation and cost-of-living pressures.
If you’re eligible, take action now—file early, opt in, and check your CRA account to make sure nothing holds up your payments. For working Canadians, this benefit could make all the difference between staying afloat or falling behind.