$2,739 CWB Payment in 2025: If you’re a low-income worker in Canada, there’s good news: you could receive a Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) payment of up to $2,739 in 2025. This refundable tax credit aims to make life a little easier for Canadians who are working hard but still struggling with day-to-day expenses. With inflation impacting essential goods and services, financial relief like this can make a meaningful difference.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what the CWB is, who qualifies, how much you can receive, and how to claim your payments. We’ll also include examples, helpful tools, important deadlines, and expert tips to ensure you get every dollar you’re entitled to.
$2,739 CWB Payment in 2025
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Benefit (2025) | $2,739 for families; $1,518 for single individuals |
| Supplement | Disability supplement of up to $737 available |
| Eligibility | Canadian residents aged 19+, earning working income |
| Payment Dates | Jan 10, Jul 11, Oct 10 (Advance payments) |
| Income Threshold | Approx. $24,975 for singles; $28,494 for families (phases out gradually) |
| Application Process | File taxes and complete Schedule 6 |
| Tools | CRA CWB Calculator |
| Official Resource | Canada Workers Benefit – CRA |
The Canada Workers Benefit is one of the most important support programs for low-income workers. It rewards work and offers consistent support to those who need it most. Whether you’re working full-time, part-time, or self-employed, this benefit could significantly boost your income.
By staying informed and filing your taxes correctly, you unlock benefits that can improve your financial wellbeing throughout the year. From groceries to rent, or just peace of mind, the CWB makes working life a little more manageable.
What Is the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)?
The Canada Workers Benefit is a government-funded refundable tax credit. “Refundable” means you can get the money even if you don’t owe any income tax. This makes it especially helpful for lower-income Canadians.
The purpose of the CWB is to:
- Incentivize employment by supplementing earnings
- Help reduce poverty and income inequality
- Provide support to those facing work-related challenges, including people with disabilities
The benefit has two main components:
- Basic Amount – Available to eligible low-income workers
- Disability Supplement – For those approved under the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
The CWB ensures that work pays and that even lower-income jobs come with meaningful government support.
How Much Can You Receive in 2025?
The amount of CWB you’ll receive is based on your income, marital status, and disability status. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Singles can receive up to $1,518
- Families (couples or single parents) may qualify for up to $2,739
- The disability supplement can add another $737 per eligible person
These amounts gradually reduce (phase out) once your income exceeds certain thresholds:
- Singles: Phased out above $24,975
- Families: Phased out above $28,494
For example, someone earning $23,000 per year may qualify for nearly the full amount, while someone earning $30,000 may see a reduced benefit.
Payment Dates for 2025
The Advance Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) program allows qualifying recipients to receive up to 50% of their estimated annual CWB in advance, divided over three payments throughout the year.
2025 Advance Payment Schedule:
- January 10, 2025
- July 11, 2025
- October 10, 2025
These payments help workers manage cash flow and meet monthly expenses. The remainder of your benefit will be included in your tax refund when you file your 2025 taxes in 2026.
Note: To receive advance payments, you must have qualified for the CWB in 2024 and have your 2024 return assessed by November 1, 2024.
Eligibility Requirements
To receive the CWB, you must meet all of the following:
General Eligibility:
- Be 19 years or older on December 31, 2025
- Be a resident of Canada throughout the year
- Have earned working income (e.g., from employment or self-employment)
You’re Not Eligible If:
- You were a full-time student for more than 13 weeks and didn’t have an eligible dependant
- You were incarcerated for 90+ days during the year
- You are a diplomat or foreign tax-exempt individual
For the Disability Supplement:
- Must be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- Must have an approved Form T2201 on file with CRA
If your spouse or common-law partner is also eligible, you may both qualify for the supplement—doubling the disability support for your household.
$2,739 CWB Payment in 2025 Apply for the CWB in 2025
Claiming your benefit is easy and straightforward. Follow these steps:
- File Your Income Tax Return: You must file a 2025 federal income tax return, even if you owe no taxes.
- Complete Schedule 6 (Canada Workers Benefit):
- This form calculates your total CWB entitlement.
- Include marital status, income, disability eligibility, and dependants.
- Your tax software will guide you through this automatically.
- Submit Your Return:
- You can file online using NETFILE, use certified tax software, or submit a paper return.
- CRA will assess your eligibility and issue your payment or tax refund.
- Receive Advance Payments (If Eligible): CRA uses your prior year’s information to calculate and send ACWB installments.
Real-Life Example: How the CWB Helps
Let’s look at an example.
Meet Daniel and Priya — a married couple living in Nova Scotia with one child. Daniel earns $18,500/year as a delivery driver. Priya works part-time and earns $9,000/year.
- Their combined income: $27,500
- They file their taxes and complete Schedule 6 together.
- They qualify for the full $2,739 in CWB.
- CRA divides the advance payments into three $456 installments.
- The remainder is included in their 2025 tax refund in spring 2026.
The couple uses this benefit to pay for childcare, groceries, and save for emergencies.
Expert Tips to Maximize Your CWB
- Always file your taxes—even if you made little to no income.
- Update Form T2201 if claiming the disability supplement.
- If married or common-law, ensure both spouses file returns.
- Keep your CRA My Account up to date (e.g., address, marital status).
- Use the CRA CWB Estimator Tool to calculate your benefit.
- If your income drops during the year, you may qualify even if you didn’t before.
FAQs On $2,739 CWB Payment in 2025
Q1: What if my income fluctuates year to year?
CRA uses your previous year’s income to determine advance payments. Final eligibility is determined when you file your taxes.
Q2: Do I need to repay the advance payments?
Only if CRA later determines you were not eligible. Accurate tax filing helps avoid this.
Q3: Can I receive the benefit if I am self-employed?
Yes! Self-employment income counts toward CWB eligibility.
Q4: Does CWB count as taxable income?
No. It is a refundable tax credit and does not affect other federal income-tested benefits.
Q5: I didn’t file taxes last year. Can I still get the CWB?
Yes, but you won’t receive advance payments. You’ll receive the full benefit when you file your current return.
