Will You Receive the $648 CCB in December 2024? See Details

Will You Receive the $648 CCB in December – The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a cornerstone of financial support for Canadian families, providing tax-free monthly payments to help cover the costs of raising children. For December 2024, eligible families can receive up to $648 per child under six years old and $547 for children aged 6 to 17, with payments scheduled for December 13, 2024.

This article breaks down everything you need to know about the CCB—eligibility, payment amounts, additional benefits, and how to apply—so you can make the most of this vital program.

What is the Canada Child Benefit?

The CCB is a federal government initiative administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It provides monthly, tax-free payments to eligible families to assist with the expenses of raising children under the age of 18. The amount you receive depends on your family’s adjusted net income (AFNI) and the number and ages of your children. Families with lower incomes receive the maximum benefit, while those with higher incomes see gradual reductions.

For the July 2024 – June 2025 period, the maximum annual amounts are:

• Children under 6 years old: Up to $7,787 annually ($648.91 per month).
• Children aged 6 to 17 years: Up to $6,570 annually ($547.50 per month).

If your family earns below $36,502, you qualify for the maximum benefit. As your income increases beyond this threshold, the benefit decreases incrementally based on your AFNI.

December 2024 Payment Details

Mark your calendars: the December 2024 CCB payment will be issued on December 13, 2024. This date is strategically timed to provide families with extra financial support during the holiday season when expenses often rise.

Here’s an example calculation:

• If you have two children under six and your family income is below $36,502, you would receive:
• $648.91 x 2 = $1,297.82 per month.

Payments are issued via direct deposit or mailed cheques, depending on your chosen method. To ensure timely delivery, it’s highly recommended to set up direct deposit through your CRA My Account.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the CCB, you must meet the following conditions:

1. Primary Caregiver: You must be primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child. This includes meeting their daily needs like feeding, clothing, and housing.
2. Child’s Age: The child must be under 18 years old.
3. Canadian Residency: You (and your spouse or common-law partner) must reside in Canada for tax purposes.
4. Tax Returns: Both you and your spouse/common-law partner must file annual income tax returns. The CRA uses this information to calculate your benefit amount based on your adjusted family net income (AFNI).
5. Legal Status in Canada: You or your spouse/common-law partner must be:

• A Canadian citizen,
• A permanent resident,
• A protected person (refugee status), or
• A temporary resident who has lived in Canada for at least 18 months with a valid permit.

Additional Supports Linked to the CCB

In addition to the CCB, families may qualify for supplementary programs to further ease the financial burden of raising children:

1. Child Disability Benefit (CDB):

• If your child has a severe and prolonged disability, you may be eligible for the CDB, which provides up to $3,173 annually (about $264.41 per month).

1. Provincial and Territorial Benefits:

• Many provinces and territories offer their own child benefit programs, such as:
  • Ontario Child Benefit
  • Quebec Family Allowance
  • BC Family Benefit

1. GST/HST Credit:

• Eligible families with low or modest incomes may also receive the GST/HST Credit to offset sales taxes.

These additional supports can significantly boost your household’s financial resources, so it’s worth exploring what else you might qualify for.

How to Apply for the CCB

If you’re a new parent or have recently moved to Canada, here’s how you can apply for the CCB:

1. Apply Online:

• Log in to your CRA My Account.
• Select “Apply for child benefits” and follow the instructions.

1. At Birth Registration:

• When registering your child’s birth in your province or territory, you can consent to share your information with the CRA for CCB application.

1. Apply by Mail:

• Complete Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefits Application) and mail it to your local tax services office.

Once approved, ensure your information is kept up to date to avoid delays in receiving your payments. Notify the CRA of any changes in your family situation, such as a new child, change in marital status, or updated income.

Payment Methods

The CRA offers two payment methods:

1. Direct Deposit:

• This is the fastest and most secure option. Payments are deposited directly into your bank account.
• To set up direct deposit, log in to your CRA My Account or use your bank’s online services to link your account.

1. Cheque:

• If you prefer, the CRA can mail a cheque to your registered address. However, this method is slower and less reliable than direct deposit.

Why the CCB Matters

The CCB plays a critical role in reducing child poverty and improving the quality of life for Canadian families. By providing predictable, monthly financial support, it helps cover essentials like food, clothing, and education. During the holiday season, when expenses tend to rise, the December payment can make a significant difference for many households.

Chart: Key Information for December 2024 CCB Payment

Conclusion

The Canada Child Benefit is more than just financial assistance—it’s a lifeline for millions of families navigating the challenges of raising children. With the December 2024 payment offering up to $648 per child under six, now is the perfect time to ensure your eligibility and update your information with the CRA.

Whether you’re a new parent or a long-time recipient, understanding the ins and outs of the CCB will help you maximize its benefits and provide the best possible future for your children.