Benefit cheque payment arrives this week for eligible residents in Ontario

Some Ontario families can expect a benefit payment this week from the federal government.

The Canada Child Benefit, a tax-free monthly payment to help with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age, should arrive this week.

The child benefit payment dates for the rest of 2024 are Oct. 18, Nov. 20 and Dec. 13.

Parents or guardians need to apply for the benefit and should do so once their child is born or starts to live with the family.

You must be a Canadian resident and be primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child.

The amount of the benefit is calculated each July and depends on the family’s net income. Payments could be anywhere from around $240 for the year to over $500 a month, depending on the family’s income, the number of children and accommodation costs.

The amount is adjusted with inflation.

If the total benefit amount for the year is less than $240, families receive one lump sum payment in July.

To apply or for more information, see the Canada Revenue Agency page here.