Introduction
With the rising cost of living and inflation continuing to affect Canadian households, the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) serves as a lifeline for low-income individuals and families. In 2025, the government has announced a significant payment of up to $1,518 for eligible workers, to be distributed as part of the ongoing support structure under the CWB.
This payment aims to supplement the income of workers struggling to meet basic needs despite being employed. Whether you’re single, part of a working family, or dealing with disability-related costs, the CWB provides crucial financial relief—and this guide will help you fully understand who qualifies, when you’ll get paid, and how to maximize the benefit.
Section 1: What Is the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)?
The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit introduced to support low-income earners who remain in the workforce. It’s designed to:
- Encourage low-income individuals to stay employed
- Supplement earnings to alleviate poverty
- Offer additional support to workers with disabilities
The CWB includes two main components:
- Basic Amount
- Disability Supplement
For 2025, the maximum benefit for individuals without disabilities is $1,518.
Section 2: Breakdown of the $1,518 CWB Payment
The $1,518 benefit can be broken into advance quarterly payments and a final reconciliation at tax time.
Component | Amount (2025) |
---|---|
Maximum Basic Amount | $1,518 per individual |
Advance Payments (Quarterly) | $379.50 x 4 (up to $1,518 annually) |
Disability Supplement | Up to $737 extra |
Tax Filing Requirement | Must file 2024 tax return |
June Payment | 2nd of 4 advance payments |
Note: These values are based on maximum thresholds. Your exact amount depends on income, family structure, and disability status.

Section 3: Eligibility Criteria for the $1,518 CWB
To receive the Canada Workers Benefit in June 2025, you must meet the following criteria:
3.1 General Eligibility:
✅ Be a resident of Canada throughout the year
✅ Be at least 19 years old on December 31, 2024, or living with a spouse/common-law partner or child
✅ Earn a working income (employment or self-employment income)
✅ File your 2024 income tax return
3.2 Income Limits:
Family Type | Net Income Limit (2024) |
---|---|
Single (no dependents) | Up to $33,000 |
Families (with spouse or child) | Up to $43,000 |
CWB phases out once income exceeds these thresholds.
Section 4: Special Provision – Disability Supplement
The CWB includes a Disability Supplement of up to $737, in addition to the basic amount.
4.1 To Qualify for the Supplement:
- You must be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- You must meet all other general CWB eligibility requirements
Component | Supplement (2025) |
---|---|
Disability Supplement | Up to $737 |
Maximum Total CWB | $1,518 + $737 = $2,255 |
This supplement ensures that low-income workers with disabilities receive additional help managing medical or accessibility-related costs.
Section 5: Payment Date – June 2025
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) distributes the CWB in advance quarterly payments if you applied for it on your 2024 tax return.
5.1 2025 CWB Advance Payment Dates:
Payment Month | Amount |
---|---|
January 2025 | Up to $379.50 |
June 2025 | Up to $379.50 |
October 2025 | Up to $379.50 |
January 2026 | Up to $379.50 |
If you qualify for the full benefit, each quarterly installment totals $379.50—meaning you’ll receive $1,518 over the course of the year.
Section 6: How to Apply for the CWB
6.1 Filing Taxes to Get CWB
To receive the CWB or its advance payments:
- File your 2024 income tax return
- Complete Schedule 6 – Canada Workers Benefit
- If applying for the advance payment, tick the box for pre-authorized quarterly payments
You do not need to reapply every year unless your tax situation changes significantly.

Section 7: Real-Life Examples
Example 1: Sarah (Single Worker)
- Income: $24,000
- Marital Status: Single
- Disability: No
- Receives full $1,518 benefit in 4 quarterly payments
Example 2: David & Mona (Working Couple)
- Income: $41,000 household
- Marital Status: Married
- Children: 1
- Disability: No
- Qualify for partial CWB: ~$850
Example 3: Joe (Disability)
- Income: $20,000
- Marital Status: Single
- Disability: Eligible for DTC
- Receives $1,518 + $737 = $2,255
Section 8: Key Facts About the CWB
- It’s refundable: Even if you owe no tax, you can still get paid.
- Does not affect other benefits: It is non-taxable and does not reduce GST credit, child benefits, or GIS.
- Can be split: If both spouses qualify, the CWB can be split between them.
- Income threshold is indexed: The thresholds may increase annually to match inflation.
- CRA handles all payments: There is no need to contact any provincial program—this is strictly a federal benefit.
Section 9: Table – CWB Amounts by Income Level
Net Income ($) | Single (No Disability) | With Disability Supplement |
---|---|---|
$10,000 | $1,518 | $2,255 |
$20,000 | $1,518 | $2,255 |
$30,000 | ~$700 | ~$1,400 |
$33,000 | ~$100 | ~$500 |
$35,000 | Not Eligible | ~$200 |
$40,000 | Not Eligible | ~$100 |
Estimates for illustrative purposes. Final amounts are based on detailed CRA calculations.
Conclusion
The Canada Workers Benefit remains one of the most critical federal programs designed to provide financial relief to hardworking Canadians. In June 2025, qualifying workers can expect a quarterly CWB advance payment of up to $379.50, culminating in $1,518 annually—with the potential for even more through the Disability Supplement.
If you’re part of Canada’s working class and your income falls within the eligibility brackets, ensure you file your 2024 taxes correctly and apply for advance payments. This small but steady income support can help you meet rising expenses and maintain financial stability in a challenging economy.
FAQs
1. Who qualifies for the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025?
Any Canadian resident aged 19+ who earns working income and falls below the income thresholds ($33,000 for singles, $43,000 for families) is eligible.
2. When will I get the June 2025 payment?
The second quarterly installment will be paid by the CRA in June 2025—exact date to be confirmed via the CRA MyAccount portal.
3. Can I receive the CWB if I owe taxes?
Yes, the CWB is refundable, meaning you can still receive it even if you owe income taxes or have zero tax payable.
4. What is the maximum I can receive with a disability?
If you qualify for the Disability Tax Credit, you may receive an additional $737, increasing your total CWB to $2,255 annually.
5. Do I need to apply separately for each payment?
No. You only need to apply once per year when you file your taxes and request the advance payments through Schedule 6.
