Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)

FederalTax creditChecked October 2, 2026

The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit for people who work and earn a low income. You claim it on your tax return, and part can be paid in advance.

How much

For the 2025 tax year: basic amount up to $1,633 (single) or $2,813 (family); ends above about $37,742 (single) or $49,393 (family) adjusted net income. A disability supplement of up to $843 is available if you qualify for the DTC. Amounts differ in some provinces/territories.

When it's paid

Claimed on your tax return (line 45300). Eligible people automatically get up to 50% in advance payments in July, October and January.

Who qualifies

You have working income
Your net income is below the threshold for your situation
You are a resident of Canada for the whole year
You are 19 or older, or live with a spouse/partner or child
You were not a full-time student for more than 13 weeks (unless you have an eligible dependant)

How to apply

File your tax return and complete Schedule 6
Report working income for you and your spouse/partner
Claim the disability supplement if approved for the DTC
Advance payments are set up automatically if you qualify

What to have ready

T4 slips or self-employment income records
Spouse/partner income
DTC approval (for the supplement)

Common mistakes to avoid

Not completing Schedule 6
Both spouses claiming the family amount
Forgetting that advance payments reduce the refund at tax time

Still being confirmed: 2026 tax-year amounts not yet confirmed; student and age rules are from prior CRA guidance. Check the official page for the latest details.

Official sources

Last checked against these pages on October 2, 2026.

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BenefitCanada is independent and not affiliated with any government. This guide summarizes official sources in plain language; rules and amounts change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.