Starting July 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is increasing the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) by $2,000 annually, offering more financial support to families raising children with disabilities.
This permanent increase will be distributed monthly and aims to ease the burden of rising caregiving costs amid inflation and economic pressure.
Families already receiving the CDB will automatically benefit from this uplift, provided they continue to meet eligibility requirements. The move aligns with CRA’s broader effort to modernize and expand support for vulnerable groups.
What the Monthly Increase Looks Like in 2025
The $2,000 boost will be spread out over the 12-month benefit year, resulting in an additional $166 per month on average. The increase will appear in benefit payments starting July 2025, following the CRA’s annual recalculation of child and family benefits.
CDB Monthly Increase Breakdown
| Total Annual Increase | Monthly Increase | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| $2,000 | ~$166.67 | July 2025 |
You do not need to apply separately for this increase if you’re already receiving the Child Disability Benefit and have an up-to-date tax return and valid Disability Tax Credit (DTC) status.
Updated Eligibility Criteria for the 2025 Child Disability Benefit
Eligibility remains consistent, but it’s essential to ensure you meet all updated conditions to receive the increased amount:
| Criteria | Requirements for 2025 |
|---|---|
| Residency | Child and caregiver must be residents of Canada |
| Child’s Age | Child must be under 18 years of age |
| Disability Tax Credit (DTC) | Must be approved for DTC by CRA |
| Income Threshold | Benefit amount depends on adjusted family net income |
| Tax Compliance | 2024 tax return must be filed by all caregivers |
New families qualifying for the DTC in 2025 will automatically be assessed for the increased CDB once their DTC application is approved and processed.
Additional Support Measures Linked to CDB
The CDB is often a gateway to other provincial supports. With the $2,000 boost, eligible families may also qualify for:
- Respite care subsidies
- Housing support programs
- Grants for adaptive technology and equipment
- Transportation support
In addition, CRA has announced a revamped My Account portal coming later in July 2025, where families can track real-time updates on benefit eligibility, payment history, and DTC validation status.
How to Ensure You Receive the Full CDB Boost
To make sure you’re getting the full benefit without delays:
- Check your child’s DTC certificate and ensure it is valid beyond July 2025.
- File your 2024 tax return before the CRA deadline.
- Report changes in marital status, custody, or address to CRA promptly.
- Use CRA’s My Account to monitor your benefit status and payment details.
Being proactive with your CRA account and documentation can help you avoid interruptions in benefit payments and maximize your family’s support.
The $2,000 increase in the CRA’s Child Disability Benefit for 2025 is a welcome relief for families managing the additional costs of raising a child with a disability.
This enhancement will be felt directly through monthly payments, providing reliable, long-term financial assistance. To benefit fully, families should ensure compliance with CRA requirements, validate their DTC status, and stay on top of their tax filings.
With more accessible support and a streamlined portal experience, CRA is making progress toward a more inclusive benefit system.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $2,000 CRA Child Disability Benefit Boost?
Families with a child under 18 approved for the Disability Tax Credit and residing in Canada with up-to-date tax filings.
Is the $2,000 boost a lump sum or monthly?
The increase is distributed monthly, averaging about $166 per month starting July 2025.
Do I need to apply separately for the increase?
No. If you’re already receiving CDB and your DTC and tax status are current, the increase will be applied automatically.