The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit that boosts take-home income for low- and modest-income workers. It has two parts: a basic amount and a disability supplement. You claim it at tax time, and—if you qualify—the CRA can also send advance payments during the year so you don’t have to wait for your refund.
Below is your plain-English, 2025-ready guide covering who qualifies, how much you can get, how to apply, and the exact 2025 advance payment dates.
Who is eligible in 2025?
You’re generally eligible for the basic CWB if you:
- Earn working income and your net income is below the limit for your province or territory,
- Were a Canadian resident throughout the year, and
- Are 19+ on December 31 (or you live with a spouse/common-law partner or an eligible dependant).
You’re not eligible if you were a full-time student for more than 13 weeks (unless you had an eligible dependant), were incarcerated for 90+ days, or don’t have to pay tax in Canada (e.g., certain diplomats/family members). An eligible dependant is your or your spouse/partner’s child under 19 who lives with you and is not eligible for the CWB.
If you also qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and have an approved T2201 on file, you may receive the CWB disability supplement in addition to the basic amount.
How much can you get?
For Canada (excluding Alberta, Nunavut, and Quebec), the CRA lists the following maximums and income thresholds (based on the 2024 tax year amounts that determine 2025 benefits)
Basic CWB & Disability Supplement — Canada (except AB/NU/QC)
| Component | Maximum | Starts to reduce after (Adjusted Net Income) | No payment when income exceeds |
|---|---|---|---|
| CWB (Single) | $1,590 | $26,149 | $36,749 |
| CWB (Families) | $2,739 | $29,833 | $48,093 |
| Disability Supplement (Single) | $821 | $36,748 | $42,222 |
| Disability Supplement (Families) | $821 | $48,091 | $53,565 if one spouse is DTC-eligible; $59,038 if both spouses are DTC-eligible |
What if you live in Alberta, Nunavut, or Quebec?
These three jurisdictions have different CWB calculation tables and cut-offs. To check the exact numbers, use the CRA’s province-specific Schedule 6 form for your region: Alberta (5009-S6), Nunavut (5014-S6), or Quebec (5005-S6).
For a quick sense of the “no-payment” income ceilings by region (2024 tax year values used to assess 2025 benefits), see the CRA’s summary table: Single (no children) Canada-wide: $36,749; Alberta: $36,832; Nunavut: ~$65,577; Quebec: ~$32,357. (Different ceilings apply for families and for disability supplement.)
How to claim the CWB (step-by-step)
- Do your taxes (electronic filing is fine). Your software will guide you through Schedule 6 (Canada Workers Benefit). If filing on paper, complete and include Schedule 6.
- The calculated CWB amount goes on line 45300 of your return.
- If you qualify for the disability supplement, ensure your DTC (T2201) is approved and on file.
If you had an eligible spouse, either partner can claim the basic amount; if one of you is DTC-eligible, that person should claim the basic amount and the disability supplement.
Advance payments (ACWB)- get up to 50% early
If you’re entitled to the CWB, the CRA can send up to 50% of your benefit during the year as Advanced CWB (ACWB) payments—automatically (no separate application). To be paid, file your return before November 1 of the benefit period and be a resident of Canada on the first day of each quarter.
2025 ACWB payment dates
- January 10, 2025
- July 11, 2025
- October 10, 2025
Quick checks before you file
- Confirm your province/territory: amounts differ in AB/NU/QC. Use the correct Schedule 6.
- Income matters: CWB phases out between the “start to reduce” and “no payment” thresholds; small income changes can impact your amount.
- ACWB is automatic: there’s no separate form now—file before Nov 1 to be considered for that year’s advance payments.
- Disability supplement: ensure your DTC is approved (T2201 on file).
The Canada Workers Benefit puts more money in the pockets of working Canadians with low incomes. In 2025, most people outside AB/NU/QC can qualify for up to $1,590 (single) or $2,739 (families), plus an $821 disability supplement if eligible.
File your taxes, complete Schedule 6, and the CRA will take care of the rest—including automatic advance payments on January 10, July 11, and October 10, 2025. With a few careful checks—residency, income, and DTC status—you can maximize your CWB and improve your monthly cash flow.
FAQs
Can full-time students get the CWB?
Generally no if you were a full-time student for more than 13 weeks—unless you had an eligible dependant on December 31.
Do I need to apply for advance payments?
No. The CRA sends ACWB automatically if you’re entitled to the CWB on line 45300 and your return is received before Nov 1 of the benefit period.
Where do I enter the CWB on my tax return?
Enter it on line 45300 – Canada workers benefit. If filing by paper, complete and include Schedule 6.