Supporting Newcomer Parents in Canada Through the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

Newcomer parents in Canada are receiving much-needed support through the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). This government payment is designed to assist families with children under the age of 18, helping them manage the costs of raising a family in a new country.

What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?

The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment provided by the Canadian government to eligible families with children under 18 years old. The payment amount varies, with families receiving up to $619.75 CAD per month for each child under 6 years old, and $522.91 CAD per month for children aged 6 to 17. For newcomer parents, the CCB can be a vital financial resource that helps ease the burden of settling into a new life in Canada.

Eligibility and Uptake Among New Permanent Residents

Eligibility for the CCB depends on factors like residency status and income, which are verified through tax filings and employment records. A study by Statistics Canada examined how many newcomer families received the CCB from 2016 to 2019. The study found that between 79% and 85% of newly landed permanent resident (PR) couples received the benefit in the year after their arrival.

The likelihood of receiving the CCB is higher for those with an employment history in Canada. For example, couples where at least one spouse had paid employment income had a take-up rate of 93% to 95%. In contrast, couples without employment income or those who did not file a T1 tax return had much lower take-up rates, often below 10%. This suggests that meeting the residency and tax filing requirements is crucial for accessing the CCB.

The Importance of the CCB for Newcomers

For newcomer families, the CCB can significantly boost their annual income. For example, a couple earning $36,502 CAD per year can receive between $6,570 and $7,787 per year for each child, depending on their age. This additional income can make up 18-20% of their yearly earnings, demonstrating the importance of the CCB in providing financial stability.

It’s also worth noting that the CCB can be paid retroactively. This means that if there is a delay in receiving the CCB after arriving in Canada, eligible families can still receive payments for the months they were entitled to but did not initially receive.

How to Apply for the CCB

New parents in Canada can apply for the CCB using the Automated Benefits Application through their Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) account, or by mailing the RC66 Canada Child Benefit Application. Newcomers must also include Form RC66SCH, which provides their status in Canada and income information, especially if they have become residents or obtained citizenship within the last two years.

Additionally, newcomers who haven’t previously received benefits for their child must provide proof of birth, including the child’s name and date of birth. A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is also required to access the CCB and other government benefits.

Final Thoughts

The Canada Child Benefit is a crucial support system for newcomer families in Canada. By ensuring that you meet the eligibility criteria and complete the necessary applications, you can take advantage of this benefit to help secure a stable financial future for your family in your new home.