As the summer of 2025 progresses, millions of working Canadians are receiving a welcome financial boost through the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB).
This year, the maximum benefit has increased to $2,739 for families and up to $1,590 for eligible single workers, thanks to inflation adjustments. Those who qualify under the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) can also receive an additional $821 disability supplement.
The first advance payment under the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) was issued in July 2025, with the second installment scheduled for October 2025.
These payments are designed to provide timely relief to low-income workers who are struggling with higher costs of living, ensuring they don’t have to wait until tax season to access their benefits.
Here’s everything you need to know in August 2025 about eligibility, benefit amounts, advance payment dates, and disability top-ups.
What Is the Canada Workers Benefit?
The CWB is a refundable tax credit that supports low-income workers across Canada. It reduces the taxes you owe and can result in a refund, even if you pay little or no income tax.
The program has two main parts:
- The basic benefit for individuals or families with low to modest incomes.
- The disability supplement for those eligible for the Disability Tax Credit.
The CWB ensures that work pays, by directly supplementing the income of Canadians working in lower-wage jobs.
Eligibility Rules for 2025
To qualify for the Canada Workers Benefit this year, you must:
- Be a resident of Canada throughout 2025.
- Be 19 years or older by December 31, 2025, or live with a spouse, common-law partner, or child.
- Have earned income from employment or self-employment.
- Have a net income below the thresholds set for your family situation.
Exclusions:
- Full-time students (more than 13 weeks in the year) unless they have a dependent.
- Individuals incarcerated for 90 days or more in 2025.
- Non-residents or those exempt from paying Canadian taxes (e.g., foreign diplomats).
Income Limits & Maximum Amounts in 2025
The CRA sets income thresholds to ensure the CWB reaches those who need it most.
| Category | Maximum Benefit | Phase-Out Starts | Fully Ends At |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $1,590 | $26,149 | $36,749 |
| Family | $2,739 | $29,833 | $48,093 |
| Disability Supplement | $821 | $36,748 (single) | Up to $59,038 |
The Disability Supplement
Workers with disabilities can qualify for an additional $821 on top of the base CWB. To be eligible:
- You must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) with a valid Form T2201 on file.
- You must also meet the standard CWB eligibility requirements.
- Even if your income is too high for the base CWB, you may still qualify for the disability supplement.
Couples:
- If only one spouse qualifies for the DTC, that person can claim both the basic amount and the disability top-up.
- If both qualify, each must complete Schedule 6, but only one can claim the base benefit.
Advance Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) Payments
To provide faster support, the CRA issues advance payments worth up to 50% of your total annual CWB. These are split into three installments:
- First Payment: July 11, 2025 (already issued)
- Second Payment: October 10, 2025
- Third Payment: January 12, 2026
The remaining balance of your entitlement will be included in your 2025 tax refund, processed in spring 2026.
July 2025 Advance Payment Snapshot
In July, eligible Canadians received the first installment of the CWB. Here’s a breakdown of typical amounts:
| Recipient Type | Estimated July Payment |
|---|---|
| Single worker | ≈ $265 |
| Eligible family | ≈ $456.50 |
| Disability supplement | ≈ $136.83 per qualified adult |
| Couple with supplement(s) | Up to ≈ $730.17 |
These amounts vary slightly by province, as regional adjustments apply.
Why the CWB Matters in August 2025
With the cost of living still climbing—particularly for groceries, rent, and transportation—the CWB remains one of the most important programs for working Canadians.
- It provides predictable income support throughout the year.
- Advance payments ensure that families don’t need to wait until tax season.
- The disability supplement gives added help to Canadians with extra challenges.
- It’s automatic: just file your taxes and the CRA does the rest.
Quick Recap — Canada Workers Benefit 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum for Singles | $1,590 |
| Maximum for Families | $2,739 |
| Disability Supplement | $821 |
| Income Limit (Singles) | $36,749 |
| Income Limit (Families) | $48,093 |
| July Payment Issued | July 11, 2025 |
| Next Payments | October 10, 2025 & January 12, 2026 |
| Tax Refund Balance | Spring 2026 |
The Canada Workers Benefit in August 2025 is a cornerstone of financial relief for low-income workers. With a maximum of $2,739 for families, $1,590 for singles, and an $821 disability top-up, it ensures that work continues to pay.
With the first advance already issued in July and the next installment coming in October, eligible Canadians can count on steady support during a year of rising living costs.
By simply filing taxes, you ensure you receive these tax-free benefits—without additional applications or delays.
FAQs
Do I need to apply separately for the Canada Workers Benefit?
No. The CWB is claimed automatically when you file your annual tax return using Schedule 6.
Are advance payments taxable?
No. Both the CWB and its advance installments are non-taxable and do not reduce your other benefits.
When will the next payment arrive after July 2025
The next ACWB payment is scheduled for October 10, 2025, followed by January 12, 2026.