Posted by If you’re welcoming a child in 2025, it’s essential to understand the latest updates to the Canada Revenue Agency’s (CRA) parental benefit programs.
These federal initiatives provide financial relief during maternity, paternity, and child-rearing periods, supporting families across the country through Employment Insurance (EI) and the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
This comprehensive guide explains who is eligible, how much you can receive, and when payments will be made.
Overview of CRA Parental Benefits 2025
| Benefit | Eligibility | Amount | Payment Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
| EI Maternity Benefits | Biological mothers with 600+ insurable hours | 55% of income, up to $695/week | Bi-weekly |
| EI Parental Benefits – Standard | Parents of newborns/adopted children | 55% of income, up to $695/week, max 40 weeks | Bi-weekly |
| EI Parental Benefits – Extended | Same as above | 33% of income, up to $417/week, max 69 weeks | Bi-weekly |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Families with children under 18 | Up to $7,787/year per child (under 6) | Monthly |
Understanding EI Maternity & Parental Benefits
EI maternity and parental benefits provide income support when you’re away from work due to childbirth or adoption.
Who Qualifies?
To receive these benefits, you must:
- Be employed in insurable employment and have paid EI premiums.
- Have worked at least 600 hours in the last 52 weeks.
- Have experienced a 40% or more drop in income due to taking leave.
Benefit Options:
- Maternity: Up to 15 weeks, only for biological mothers.
- Parental (Standard): Shared up to 40 weeks; max 35 weeks for one parent. 55% of earnings.
- Parental (Extended): Shared up to 69 weeks; max 61 for one parent. 33% of earnings.
Note: Once you choose between standard and extended parental benefits, it cannot be changed later.
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – What You Need to Know
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment that helps families raise children under 18.
Eligibility Criteria:
You must:
- Be the primary caregiver of the child.
- Be a Canadian resident and file taxes annually.
- Be a citizen, permanent resident, or other eligible resident status.
Payment Details (July 2024 – June 2025):
- Children under 6: Up to $7,787 annually or $648.91/month.
- Children aged 6–17: Up to $6,570 annually or $547.50/month.
CCB Monthly Payment Dates for 2025
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | 20 |
| February | 20 |
| March | 20 |
| April | 17 |
| May | 20 |
| June | 20 |
| July | 18 |
| August | 20 |
| September | 19 |
| October | 20 |
| November | 20 |
| December | 12 |
How to Apply for CRA Parental Benefits
For EI Maternity and Parental Benefits:
- Visit the Service Canada website.
- Choose Apply for EI Benefits.
- Submit your SIN, banking details, employer info, and ROE.
- Receive a decision in approximately 28 days.
- Benefits are paid bi-weekly, with a one-week unpaid waiting period.
Tip: Apply immediately after stopping work. Delay may reduce your entitlement.
For Canada Child Benefit (CCB):
- Apply through CRA My Account or by submitting Form RC66.
- Alternatively, apply through the Automated Benefits Application when registering your child’s birth.
Other Support Options
Some provinces and employers offer top-up benefits or alternatives:
- Quebec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP) provides separate parental benefits with distinct rules.
- Employer top-ups may boost your EI payments to 70-90% of regular wages.
Canada’s CRA Parental Benefits for 2025 are designed to ease financial stress for growing families.
Whether you’re expecting a baby, adopting, or already navigating parenthood, programs like EI maternity and parental benefits and the Canada Child Benefit offer substantial support.
Make sure you understand your eligibility, apply on time, and maximize your entitlements for a smoother journey into parenthood.
FAQs
Can both parents receive EI parental benefits?
Yes, benefits can be shared between eligible parents, but one parent cannot exceed the individual limit.
Do I need to reapply each year for the CCB?
No. As long as you file your taxes annually, your CCB payments will automatically be recalculated.
What if my income changes during the year?
Your CCB payments may adjust mid-year if CRA reassesses your income or family situation.