Canada Workers Benefit payments for October go out soon — Here's how much you can get
Check to see if you're eligible! 👇
You could be eligible for over $500 in advance CWB payments this month.
October has arrived, and with it comes a slew of federal benefit payments Canadians can receive this month, including payments from the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit.
This refundable tax credit is designed to help lower-income individuals and families across the country, giving them a financial boost to cope with the rising cost of living.
For eligible Canadians, the upcoming government benefit payment could put extra cash in their pockets this fall, helping with everyday expenses. With payments being made automatically, it's one less thing to worry about as you plan your budget for the season.
Here's everything you need to know about the October 2024 Canada Workers Benefit payment, including how much you could receive and how it works.
What is the Canada Workers Benefit?
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit that helps individuals and families across Canada who are working but earning a low income. It's designed to give workers a bit of extra financial support by providing a basic amount, as well as a disability supplement for those who qualify.
What is the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit?
The Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) lets eligible individuals receive part of their Canada Workers Benefit ahead of tax time.
Instead of waiting until you file your tax return, you can automatically get up to 50% of your total CWB in three payments throughout the year. These payments are spread out to help you manage everyday expenses, and you don't need to apply for the advanced payments — if you're eligible, the payments are issued automatically.
Who is eligible for the Canada Workers Benefit?
To qualify for the CWB, you must meet a few basic conditions. First, you need to have earned a working income, and your net income must be below the limit set for your province or territory. You also need to be a resident of Canada throughout the year, and either be 19 or older on December 31 or live with a spouse, common-law partner or child.
However, there are some situations that make you ineligible. You won't qualify if you were a full-time student for more than 13 weeks of the year (unless you had an eligible dependant on December 31), if you were in prison for at least 90 days during the year or if you don't have to pay Canadian taxes because of your role as a diplomat or similar position.
How to apply for the Canada Workers Benefit
Applying for the Canada Workers Benefit is simple — you just need to claim it when you file your taxes. If you file your return electronically, your certified tax software will guide you through the steps to claim the CWB. If you prefer to file a paper return, make sure to fill out and submit Schedule 6, which is specifically for the Canada Workers Benefit.
If you're also eligible for the disability supplement, the process is similar, but keep in mind that if you have an eligible spouse, only one of you can claim the basic amount, while both of you can claim the disability supplement on separate forms if you're both eligible.
You don't need to apply separately for the advance payments under the ACWB program — these will be sent out automatically if you're eligible. Just make sure to file your tax return before November 1 of the benefit period to receive those payments.
How much is the Canada Workers Benefit?
The amount you can receive from the CWB depends on your income and where you live in Canada.
- If you're single without children, the maximum basic amount you can get is $1,518. This starts to decrease if your income is over $24,975, and you won't get anything if your income is above $35,095.
- If you have a spouse, common-law partner or child, the maximum amount is $2,616. This amount is reduced if your family's net income is more than $28,494, and no amount is paid if your family income is over $45,934.
There's also a disability supplement available, which adds up to $784 for both individuals and families. For singles, this starts to be reduced at an income of $35,098 and for families at $45,932.
Given that the ACWB quarterly payments are for around 1/6 of your yearly entitlement, for the October 2024 payment, eligible recipients could receive up to:
- $253 if you're single
- $436 if you have a spouse or common-law partner
- $130.66 extra if you qualify for the disability supplement
These amounts may vary slightly if you live in Quebec, Alberta or Nunavut, as they have different maximums and income thresholds. You can always use the CRA's benefit calculator to get a more accurate estimate based on your specific situation.
Is the Canada Workers Benefit taxable?
No, the Canada Workers Benefit is not taxable. As a refundable tax credit, it's actually designed to reduce the amount of tax you owe, or give you a refund if you don't owe any tax.
When are the Canada Workers Benefit payment dates?
The next Advanced Canada Workers Benefit payment date is October 11, 2024.
This is the final payment for 2024, with the following payment scheduled for January 10, 2025.
AI tools may have been used to support the creation or distribution of this content; however, it has been carefully edited and fact-checked by a member of Narcity's Editorial team. For more information on our use of AI, please visit our Editorial Standards page.
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