If you’re raising a child with a disability in Canada, you know how quickly the costs can add up. The $284 monthly Child Disability Benefit (CDB) in 2025 is meant to give families a bit of relief.
Here’s everything you need to know about who qualifies, how to apply, when you get paid, and how much support you could receive this year.
What is the $284 Child Disability Benefit and why it matters
The Child Disability Benefit is a monthly, tax-free payment that helps families caring for a child with a long-term disability.
In 2025, eligible families can receive up to $284 per month for each child. That’s a total of $3,408 for the year. The payment is added automatically to your regular Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
The goal is to help with the extra costs related to disability care things like therapy, equipment, transportation, or daily living support.
How the Child Disability Benefit works in 2025
The benefit depends on two main factors:
- You must already be receiving the Canada Child Benefit
- Your child must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Once both are in place, the CDB is added to your monthly CCB payments. You don’t need to apply for it separately.
The amount you receive depends on your family’s net income. In 2025, the full amount of $284 per month is available to families with an income below $75,537. Above that amount, the benefit is reduced gradually.
Child Disability Benefit eligibility in 2025
Here’s a quick table to show the basic eligibility requirements:
| Requirement | What you need to know |
|---|---|
| Canada Child Benefit | You must already be receiving the CCB |
| Disability Tax Credit (DTC) | Your child must be approved by CRA |
| Family income | Under $75,537 for full benefit in 2025 |
| Residency | You and the child must live in Canada |
If you’re not sure whether your child qualifies for the DTC, speak with a medical professional. The form (T2201) needs to be certified by a doctor or specialist.
When Child Disability Benefit payments are made in 2025
CDB payments follow the same schedule as the Canada Child Benefit. They are sent out once a month, either by direct deposit or cheque.
Here’s the 2025 payment schedule:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 20 |
| February | February 20 |
| March | March 20 |
| April | April 18 |
| May | May 20 |
| June | June 20 |
| July | July 19 |
| August | August 20 |
| September | September 20 |
| October | October 18 |
| November | November 20 |
| December | December 20 |
If you use direct deposit, the payment should appear in your account on that day. Mailed cheques can take a few extra days.
How to apply for the Child Disability Benefit
You don’t need to fill out a separate form for the Child Disability Benefit, but you do need to complete these steps:
Step 1: Apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- Use CRA Form T2201
- A medical professional must complete and sign the form
- Submit it online via CRA My Account or by mail
Step 2: Make sure you’re receiving the Canada Child Benefit
- If you’re not already getting the CCB, apply using CRA Form RC66
- You can also apply online through CRA My Account
Once the DTC is approved and you’re receiving the CCB, the CDB is added automatically.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Here are a few common reasons families miss out on this benefit:
- Not applying for the Disability Tax Credit
- Letting the DTC expire without renewing it
- Not filing taxes the CRA needs your tax info to calculate your benefits
- Not updating your marital status or address with CRA
To avoid missing payments, make sure everything with the CRA is current and complete.
Best steps to make the most of the Child Disability Benefit
Apply for the DTC early, especially if your child has just received a diagnosis
Set up CRA My Account so you can track your benefits and payment status easily
Ask your child’s doctor to be detailed when filling out the DTC form vague responses may delay approval
File your taxes on time every year, even if your income is low or you don’t owe anything
The latest updates for 2025
For 2025, the monthly benefit has increased slightly due to inflation. Families earning $75,537 or less may receive the full $284 per month, which is up from last year.
No major program changes were introduced this year. However, the government continues to review how it supports children with disabilities as part of its larger disability inclusion plans.
Conclusion
The $284 monthly Child Disability Benefit in 2025 is a valuable support for families raising children with disabilities. It’s tax-free, automatic once you qualify, and can add up to over $3,400 a year.
If your child isn’t already approved for the Disability Tax Credit, that’s the first step. Once you’ve got that and the CCB in place, the benefit will start coming in automatically.
Don’t wait even one missed payment is money left on the table.
FAQs
When are Child Disability Benefit payments made in 2025?
Payments are made monthly, following the same schedule as the Canada Child Benefit usually around the 20th of each month.
What is the maximum amount for the Child Disability Benefit in 2025?
The maximum is $284 per month per child, which totals $3,408 per year.
Why didn’t I receive my Child Disability Benefit?
Your child may not be approved for the Disability Tax Credit, or your CRA account info (like tax returns or income) may not be up to date.
How do I apply for the Disability Tax Credit?
Submit Form T2201 with your child’s doctor’s certification. You can apply online through CRA My Account or send it by mail.
Can I get the Child Disability Benefit if I don’t receive the Canada Child Benefit?
No. The CDB is only paid to families who already receive the Canada Child Benefit.
