$1,428 Canada Workers Benefit in 2025 – If you’re a working Canadian earning a low income, the $1,428 Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) in 2025 could be a vital financial boost. Designed to supplement the earnings of individuals and families in the workforce, the CWB is a refundable tax credit offered by the Canadian government to encourage and support employment.

Whether you’re just starting your job, juggling multiple part-time roles, or supporting a family, understanding how the Canada Workers Benefit works could put more money in your pocket—without needing to apply separately for it.
$1,428 Canada Workers Benefit in 2025
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Maximum Benefit (2025) | Up to $1,518 for single individuals and $2,616 for families |
Advance Payment Option | Yes, up to 50% in three installments |
Disability Supplement | Additional benefit for those approved under the Disability Tax Credit |
Income Threshold (Singles) | Benefit starts reducing above $24,975, eliminated above $35,095 |
Income Threshold (Families) | Benefit starts reducing above $28,494, eliminated above $45,934 |
Official Website | Canada.ca – Workers Benefit |
The $1,428 Canada Workers Benefit in 2025 offers essential support for low-income workers through a refundable tax credit. With benefits up to $1,518 for singles and $2,616 for families, this guide breaks down how to qualify, claim, and boost your payout using the advance payment and disability supplement options. Learn how to maximize your benefit, file accurately, and stay ahead with tips tailored for Canadians.
If you’re a working Canadian earning a low income, the $1,428 Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) in 2025 could be a vital financial boost. Designed to supplement the earnings of individuals and families in the workforce, the CWB is a refundable tax credit offered by the Canadian government to encourage and support employment.
What is the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)?
The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit that helps low-income workers by reducing the amount of tax owed and providing extra cash when income is low. This means even if you don’t owe any taxes, you may still receive the benefit as a tax refund.
In 2025, the maximum basic amount is:
- $1,518 for eligible single individuals without children.
- $2,616 for families, including couples and single parents.
This benefit is automatically calculated when you file your tax return, so there’s no need for a separate application.
Why the CWB Matters in 2025
With inflation still affecting the cost of essentials like food, rent, and utilities, the CWB offers working Canadians direct financial support to help close the gap. The program not only incentivizes employment but also helps reduce poverty rates, particularly among working single adults and families with children.
According to the CRA, over 3.2 million Canadians benefited from the CWB in recent years, making it one of the most impactful income supplements for working-class Canadians.
Who is Eligible for the Canada Workers Benefit?
To qualify for the CWB in 2025, you must meet the following criteria:
General Eligibility
- Be a resident of Canada throughout the year.
- Be 19 years or older on December 31, 2025, or live with a spouse, common-law partner, or child.
- Have employment or business income during the year.
Income Requirements
The benefit amount decreases as your income rises. Here are the thresholds:
- Single individuals: Benefits start reducing after $24,975 and cut off at $35,095.
- Families: Reduction begins after $28,494 and cuts off at $45,934.
If you’re close to these limits, even a small decrease in income could make you eligible.
Who is Not Eligible?
You are not eligible if:
- You are enrolled as a full-time student for more than 13 weeks (unless you have a dependent).
- You are incarcerated for 90 days or more.
- You are exempt from paying Canadian income tax, like foreign diplomats.
What is the Disability Supplement?
If you’re eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), you can receive an additional CWB disability supplement:
- Up to $737 for individuals or families.
To receive it:
- You must qualify for the DTC.
- Your income must be below specific thresholds (e.g., $40,805 for singles in 2025).
- Ensure you’ve completed the T2201 Disability Tax Credit Certificate and submitted it to the CRA.
Learn more: Disability Tax Credit – Canada.ca
How to Apply for the Canada Workers Benefit in 2025?
Good news—you don’t need to fill out a special application form! The process is built into your tax filing:
Step-by-Step Guide to Claim CWB
- Collect your income information (T4 slips, self-employment earnings, etc.).
- When filing your return, complete Schedule 6 (Canada Workers Benefit).
- Enter the final benefit amount from Schedule 6 on Line 45300 of your tax return.
- Submit your return electronically or by mail.
If you’re using a tax software like TurboTax, Wealthsimple Tax, or a tax professional, they’ll help calculate and apply the CWB automatically.
How Advance Payments Work?
The CWB advance payment option helps you receive money during the year rather than waiting until tax time. You can get up to 50% of your total benefit in three equal payments.
Advance Payment Schedule (Tentative)
- April 2025
- July 2025
- October 2025
To qualify for advance payments:
- You must file your 2024 tax return before November 1, 2025.
- Your income must meet eligibility guidelines.
This can be especially helpful to cover monthly bills, groceries, or emergencies.
Real-Life Example: How Much Will You Get?
Let’s break it down with an example.
Case: Jasmine, a single retail worker in Ontario
- Annual income: $22,000
- No children or disability
Based on her income, Jasmine could qualify for the full $1,518 under the CWB in 2025. If she opted for advance payments, she would receive about $506 every few months, with the rest included in her tax refund.
Provincial and Territorial Variants
Some provinces and territories offer their own supplementary programs that work alongside the CWB. For example:
- Quebec has its Work Premium (prime au travail).
- Alberta and BC may offer top-ups or similar provincial credits.
Check your province’s official website or speak to a local tax advisor for specific eligibility and bonus amounts.
Tips to Maximize Your Benefit
- File your taxes on time – even if you earn very little!
- Use certified tax software or a professional to ensure accurate calculations.
- Keep income just below the threshold to qualify for higher payouts.
- If eligible, apply for the Disability Tax Credit to boost your benefit.
- Track advance payments to plan your cash flow better.
- Stay informed by signing up for updates from the CRA’s My Account portal.
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FAQs
Do I need to apply separately for the CWB?
No. The benefit is calculated automatically when you file your income tax return.
Can I receive the CWB if I’m self-employed?
Yes, as long as you report business or self-employment income and meet the other eligibility criteria.
Will the CWB affect my other government benefits?
Generally, no. The CWB is not considered taxable income and does not reduce other federal benefits like the GST/HST credit or CCB.
When will I receive the CWB payments?
If you opt for advance payments, you’ll receive them in April, July, and October. The remainder will be added to your tax refund.
What if I make a mistake on my return?
If you accidentally omit the CWB or make an error, you can file an adjustment through the CRA My Account online or by submitting a T1 Adjustment Request.