CRA Confirms $1590 Canada Workers Benefit – Check Eligibility Before It’s Too Late

The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is one of the most significant refundable tax credits available to low-income Canadians in 2025. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the CWB is designed to make life more affordable for workers by providing up to $1,590 for singles and up to $2,739 for families. In addition, the program includes a disability supplement, ensuring extra support for those living with disabilities.

With inflation and rising living costs placing more pressure on households, this benefit has become a crucial financial tool. More than three million Canadians rely on the CWB to cover everyday needs such as groceries, rent, transportation, and utilities.

What Is the $1,590 Canada Workers Benefit?

The CWB is not a direct welfare program but rather a refundable tax credit, meaning it reduces taxes owed and pays out cash even if you owe no taxes. It is designed to encourage low-income individuals and families to remain in the workforce while offering them additional income support.

In 2025, the maximum annual entitlement is:

• $1,590 for singles
• $2,739 for families

On top of this, eligible individuals with disabilities may receive an additional $520–$700 annually, depending on their circumstances.

Eligibility Requirements for 2025

To receive the CWB in 2025, workers must meet the following criteria:

• Residency: Must be a Canadian resident for the entire year.
• Age: At least 19 years old by December 31, 2025, unless living with a spouse or dependent child.
• Income: Must have working income of at least $3,000 in the year.
• Income thresholds:
• Singles must have a net income below $33,015.
• Families must have a net income below $45,934 (varies slightly by province).
• Exclusions:
• Full-time students without dependents are not eligible.
• Individuals incarcerated for 90+ days during the year do not qualify.
• Non-tax residents of Canada are excluded.

In families, the benefit is typically issued to the spouse with the higher income.

How Much Can You Receive?

The benefit is calculated based on working income and family composition. For 2025:

• Singles: Up to $1,590
• Families: Up to $2,739
• Disability supplement: Up to $700 extra annually
• Quarterly advance payments:
• Singles: Up to $265 each quarter
• Families: Up to $456 each quarter
• Disability supplement: Up to $130 each quarter

This means eligible households may receive payments several times a year rather than waiting until tax season.

Advance Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) 2025

To make support more accessible, the CRA issues Advance Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) payments. Instead of waiting for the annual tax refund, eligible recipients can receive the benefit in three installments:

• First installment: July 11, 2025
• Second installment: October 10, 2025
• Final installment: January 9, 2026

This system helps low-income workers manage expenses consistently throughout the year.

How to Apply for the CWB

Most eligible Canadians do not need to submit a separate application. Instead, eligibility is determined automatically when you file your income tax return.

Steps include:

• File your 2024 tax return before November 1, 2025.
• Ensure all income details, dependents, and residency information are correctly reported.
• CRA will assess eligibility and issue either the annual payment or advance installments.

For those requesting the disability supplement, additional proof such as the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) certificate may be required.

Why the CWB Matters in 2025

With inflation affecting the cost of housing, food, and utilities, programs like the CWB are vital. The benefit ensures that low-income workers do not have to choose between employment and affordability.

By offering quarterly advance payments, the government ensures families have steady financial support, reducing reliance on payday loans or other high-cost credit options.

Practical Tips to Maximize Your CWB

• Always file taxes on time to remain eligible.
• Update marital status and dependents with CRA promptly, as this affects payment amounts.
• Apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) if you qualify, to receive the disability supplement.
• Monitor CRA’s My Account online to track benefit status and upcoming payments.

FAQs About the $1,590 Canada Workers Benefit 2025

Q1: Who qualifies for the $1,590 CWB payment in 2025?
Workers aged 19+ (or younger with a spouse/child), earning at least $3,000 annually, and with net incomes below $33,015 (singles) or $45,934 (families) qualify.

Q2: Do students qualify for the CWB?
Full-time students without dependents are not eligible. However, part-time students and full-time students with children may qualify.

Q3: When are the advance CWB payments for 2025?
Advance payments are scheduled for July 11, October 10, 2025, and January 9, 2026.

Q4: How much can families receive in 2025?
Families can receive up to $2,739 annually, with quarterly advances of up to $456.

Q5: Is the CWB taxable income?
No. The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit and does not count as taxable income.