As we move through March 2025, the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) continues to provide crucial support for eligible low-income individuals and families across the country. With the first installment already paid out on January 10, 2025, many Canadians are now preparing for the upcoming second payment in July—but March is a perfect time to revisit your eligibility, review how much you’ve received, and make sure you’re on track for the rest of the year.
Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the ACWB is designed to ease the financial burden of day-to-day expenses while encouraging ongoing participation in the workforce. With inflation impacting household budgets and tax season underway, knowing where you stand with this benefit can make a big difference.
What Is the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB)?
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit aimed at supporting working Canadians with low incomes. The advanced payment system divides your annual benefit into three installments, allowing you to receive a portion of your benefit throughout the year—instead of waiting until after you file your taxes.
It includes two major components:
- Basic Amount – A general payment to assist with daily living costs
- Disability Supplement – Additional support for individuals who qualify for the disability tax credit
These quarterly payments are based on your previous tax year’s return, so accuracy and timely filing are essential.
Eligibility for the March 2025 Period
While there isn’t a separate payment in March, it’s an important month for filing your 2024 tax return and updating your eligibility status.
To qualify for the ACWB in 2025, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident for the full year
- Be 19 or older by December 31, 2024
- If younger than 19, you must live with a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child
- Have filed your 2024 tax return
- Meet the income thresholds based on your marital/family status
Here’s a breakdown of benefit eligibility and phase-out limits:
| Category | Benefit Type | Maximum Amount | Reduction Starts At | Phases Out At |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Individuals | Basic Amount | $1,518 | $24,975 | $35,095 |
| Disability Supplement | $784 | $35,098 | $40,325 | |
| Families | Basic Amount | $2,616 | $28,494 | $45,934 |
| Disability Supplement | $784 | $45,932 | $56,386 |
Who Is Not Eligible for ACWB?
You will not qualify for the ACWB if:
- You were a full-time student for more than 13 weeks in the year (unless you had a dependent)
- You were incarcerated for 90+ days in the tax year
- You are exempt from Canadian income tax due to diplomatic or international status
These exclusions are strictly enforced, so it’s important to confirm your eligibility before expecting payment.
Payment Schedule for 2025
The next ACWB payment won’t come in March, but here’s the full schedule for the year:
| Installment | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| First | January 10, 2025 |
| Second | July 11, 2025 |
| Third | October 10, 2025 |
If you received your first payment already, keep an eye on your CRA account for updates on your July installment. March is the time to file or update your 2024 taxes, especially if your income or family status has changed.
How ACWB Payments Are Calculated
The CRA uses your previous year’s income tax return to determine your payment. If you are married or in a common-law relationship, the higher-earning partner—or the one who qualifies for the disability credit—typically receives the ACWB.
Your payment depends on:
- Net income
- Marital or family status
- Province or territory
- Disability tax credit status
Since CRA uses historical data, it’s important to file your 2024 return as early as possible so your eligibility and future payments are calculated correctly.
How to Apply for ACWB in 2025
You don’t need to submit a separate application for ACWB. Here’s how to ensure you’re considered:
- File your 2024 tax return by November 1, 2025
- Complete Schedule 6 with your return (this section calculates the CWB)
- If claiming the disability supplement, submit a valid Form T2201
- Use CRA’s My Account service to monitor payment updates
Only one spouse may claim the basic benefit, but both partners can claim the disability supplement (if eligible).
Didn’t Get Your First Payment? Here’s What to Do
If your January 10 payment hasn’t arrived, take these steps:
- Check your bank account – Look for deposits made between Jan 10–20
- Wait 10 business days – Delays can occur, especially near holidays
- Log in to CRA My Account – Check for messages or payment status updates
- Contact the CRA – If no payment appears after the waiting period
Also, ensure your direct deposit information is up to date to avoid delays in future installments.
FAQs
What is the ACWB?
The Advanced Canada Workers Benefit provides quarterly tax credit payments to low-income workers to help with living expenses.
Is there a payment in March 2025?
No, the next ACWB payment will be in July 2025. March is when many Canadians file taxes to ensure continued eligibility.
How is the benefit calculated?
It’s based on your 2024 tax return, factoring in your income, family situation, and disability status.
Can students receive this benefit?
Only if you weren’t in school full-time for more than 13 weeks or had a dependent child.
What if I didn’t file my taxes yet?
You must file your 2024 return by November 1, 2025, to qualify for ACWB this year.
Can both spouses claim the benefit?
Only one can claim the basic benefit, but both may qualify for the disability supplement.
What if I don’t receive my July payment?
Wait 10 business days, then check your CRA account or call their support line for assistance.
Is the ACWB taxable?
No, the payments are not taxable and will not affect other benefit programs.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.