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In 2025, the Canadian government continues to provide financial support to children and young adults under the age of 25 through the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Children’s Benefit.
This benefit aims to alleviate financial burdens for families where a parent or guardian is either deceased or receiving Canada Pension Plan disability benefits.
Understanding the eligibility criteria, benefit amounts, and payment schedules is crucial for beneficiaries.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Canada Pension Plan Children’s Benefit, the child must meet the following conditions:
- Age Requirements:
- Under 18 years of age, or
- Between 18 and 25 years old and attending a recognized school or university full-time or part-time.
- Relationship to Contributor:
- Biological child of the Canada Pension Plan contributor.
- Legally adopted by the contributor while under the age of 21.
- Under the care and custody of the contributor while under the age of 21.
- Contributor’s Status:
- The parent or guardian is receiving a Canada Pension Plan disability benefit.
- The parent or guardian has passed away and met the Canada Pension Plan contributory requirements.
Note: For children aged 18 to 25, proof of school attendance is required to continue receiving benefits.
Benefit Amounts for 2025
The CPP Children’s Benefit provides a monthly flat-rate payment, adjusted annually. For the year 2025, the benefit amounts are as follows:
| Category | Monthly Amount (2025) |
|---|---|
| Children under 18 years | $301.77 |
| Children aged 18–25 (full-time students) | $301.77 |
| Children aged 18–25 (part-time students) | $150.89 |
These payments are designed to assist with the child’s living and educational expenses.
Payment Schedule for 2025
The CPP Children’s Benefit is disbursed monthly. The scheduled payment dates for 2025 are:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | 29th |
| February | 26th |
| March | 27th |
| April | 28th |
| May | 28th |
| June | 26th |
| July | 29th |
| August | 27th |
| September | 25th |
| October | 29th |
| November | 26th |
| December | 22nd |
Payments are typically deposited directly into the beneficiary’s bank account on these dates.
Application Process
For Children Under 18:
- The parent or guardian should apply on behalf of the child.
- Applications can be submitted online through the My Service Canada Account (MSCA) or by completing the paper form ISP1152.
For Children Aged 18 to 25:
- The child must apply themselves.
- They need to complete the ISP1402 form and provide proof of school attendance.
Note: It is essential to apply as soon as possible, as retroactive payments are limited to 12 months.
The CPP Children’s Benefit provides crucial financial support to children and young adults under 25 who have lost a parent or whose parent is receiving CPP disability benefits.
By understanding the eligibility criteria, benefit amounts, and payment schedules, families can ensure they receive the support they are entitled to.
Timely application and adherence to the requirements are essential to maximize the benefits available.
FAQs
Can a child receive the benefit if they are studying part-time?
Yes, children aged 18 to 25 attending a recognized school or university part-time are eligible to receive half of the full benefit amount, which is $150.89 per month in 2025.
What happens if the child stops attending school?
If a child aged 18 to 25 ceases to attend school full-time or part-time, they are no longer eligible for the benefit, and payments will stop the month after school attendance ends.
Are the benefit amounts taxable?
No, the CPP Children’s Benefit is not considered taxable income.