$1,238 Canada Workers Benefit In 2025 – Who Qualifies And When Payments Arrive

The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) remains one of the most important federal supports for working Canadians in 2025.

With rising costs for housing, groceries, and transportation, the Canada Workers Benefit ensures that low- and moderate-income workers receive additional financial relief.

In August 2025, many Canadians have already received their first advance Canada Workers Benefit payments, with the maximum reaching up to $1,238.99 depending on family status, income, and eligibility for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).

Let’s break down who qualifies, how much you can expect, and when the next payments will arrive.

What Is the Canada Workers Benefit?

The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit that reduces the amount of federal tax you owe or provides a cash refund if you owe none. It is made up of two parts:

  • Basic Amount – Paid to individuals and families meeting income requirements.
  • Disability Supplement – An extra benefit for those who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).

Since 2022, the CRA has been issuing advance payments—up to 50% of your annual entitlement—in three installments: July, October, and January, with the remainder included in your tax refund.

July–August 2025 Payment Highlights

The July 2025 advance payments reflected indexed increases to offset inflation. By August, many Canadians reported receiving their first installment, with some reaching as high as $1,238.99.

Regional Breakdown of CWB Advance Payments (July 2025)

RegionSingle (No DTC)Family (No DTC)Max (With DTC x2)
Standard Provinces$265$456.50$730.17
Alberta$284$425.17$698.83
Nunavut$263$395.17$699.17
Quebec$617.56$963.09 (No kids)$1,238.99 (Couple + DTC)

These amounts were based on 2024 tax returns and deposited automatically for eligible recipients.

Eligibility for Canada Workers Benefit in 2025

To qualify for the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025, you must meet the following:

  • Be a resident of Canada for the full year.
  • Be 19 years or older by December 31, 2024 (or living with a spouse, common-law partner, or child).
  • Have earned employment or self-employment income.
  • File your 2024 tax return before November 1, 2025.

Income Thresholds for 2025

RegionSingles Phase-OutFamilies Phase-Out
Standard$26,149 – $36,749$29,833 – $48,093
Alberta$25,472 – $36,832$31,911 – $48,918
Nunavut$26,127 – $65,577$35,957 – $65,595
Quebec$13,829 – $32,356$21,456 – $50,150

Disability Supplement Phase-Outs

RegionSingles Ends AtFamilies Ends At
Standard$42,222$59,038
Alberta$42,305$59,865
Nunavut$73,195$80,777
Quebec$36,495$58,427

If you qualify for the DTC, you may receive additional payments even if your income is too high for the base CWB.

Payment Schedule for 2025–2026

The CRA has confirmed the following advance Canada Workers Benefit payment dates:

  • First Payment – July 11, 2025
  • Second Payment – October 10, 2025
  • Third Payment – January 12, 2026

The final balance of your CWB entitlement will be included in your 2025 tax refund, issued in spring 2026.

Why the $1,238 Canada Workers Benefit Matters in 2025

With inflation still affecting Canadian households, the Canada Workers Benefit provides stability by:

  • Giving predictable payments throughout the year.
  • Ensuring work pays off, even for low-wage earners.
  • Offering additional support for persons with disabilities.
  • Requiring only a tax return filing, with no separate applications needed.

For many families, this benefit helps cover essentials like rent, transportation, and groceries, making it a crucial part of Canada’s financial safety net.

The $1,238 Canada Workers Benefit in 2025 ensures that working Canadians are supported during challenging economic times.

With automatic payments issued in July, October, and January, and a final adjustment at tax time, the program continues to provide reliable relief for low- and moderate-income earners.

Filing taxes on time, keeping your CRA My Account updated, and ensuring DTC eligibility (if applicable) are key to maximizing this benefit.

FAQs

Do I need to apply separately for the CWB?

No. The CRA automatically determines eligibility when you file your taxes.

How much is the maximum CWB in 2025?

The maximum is $1,590 for singles and $2,739 for families, with up to $821 for the disability supplement.

When will the next CWB payment arrive?

The next advance payment will be issued on October 10, 2025.

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