Canada February 2025 Benefits Payments | Dates & Eligibility Guide

Did you know that millions of Canadians rely on federal and provincial benefits each month to support their financial well-being?

Whether it’s the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), Old Age Security (OAS), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), or the Goods and Services Tax (GST) credit, these payments help individuals and families cover essential expenses.

The Government of Canada provides a structured schedule for distributing benefits, ensuring recipients receive their payments on time.

As we step into February 2025, many Canadians are eager to know when their benefit payments will arrive and whether they are eligible for financial assistance.

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of benefit payment dates, eligibility criteria, and application processes for various federal and provincial programs.

Let’s explore the exact dates, eligibility requirements, and steps to receive your February 2025 benefits.

What Are the Canada Benefits Payments in February 2025?

The Canada Benefits Payments include a variety of financial assistance programs aimed at different segments of the population. These payments are issued by CRA and Service Canada to eligible individuals, covering families, seniors, low-income workers, and veterans.

Canada Benefits Payments in February 2025

• Canada Child Benefit (CCB): Financial support for families with children under 18.
• Old Age Security (OAS) & Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): Monthly payments for seniors aged 65 and older.
• Canada Pension Plan (CPP): Retirement and disability benefits for eligible individuals.
• Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit: Quarterly tax-free payments to offset sales tax.
• Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB): Financial relief for Ontario residents through various tax credits.
• Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR): Formerly the Climate Action Incentive Payment, supporting eligible taxpayers.
• Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB): A tax credit for low-income workers.
• Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB): Support for eligible families in Alberta.
• Veteran Disability Pension: Assistance for veterans with disabilities.

Each program has specific eligibility criteria and payment schedules, ensuring financial aid reaches those who need it the most.

What Are the Canada Benefits Payment Dates for February 2025?

Benefit Program	Payment Date (February 2025)
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)	February 20, 2025
Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)	February 10, 2025
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)	February 26, 2025
Old Age Security (OAS)	February 26, 2025
Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB)	February 27, 2025
Veteran Disability Pension	February 27, 2025

Who Is Eligible for the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Payments in February 2025?

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) provides monthly financial support to eligible Canadians in the form of retirement, disability, children’s, and survivor benefits. The CPP payment for February 2025 is scheduled for February 26, 2025.

To qualify for CPP retirement benefits, individuals must meet specific criteria based on their age, work history, and contributions to the plan.

Eligibility Criteria for CPP Retirement Pension

To receive CPP retirement benefits, you must:

• Be at least 60 years old at the time of applying.
• Have made at least one valid contribution to the CPP.
• Contributions can come from employment income in Canada or credits from a former spouse/common-law partner after a relationship ends.

These contributions determine the monthly amount you will receive in retirement. The longer and higher you contribute, the larger your CPP pension will be.

Can You Work While Receiving CPP Retirement Pension?

Yes, you can continue working even while receiving your CPP retirement pension without reducing your benefit amount. Additionally, your CPP retirement income may increase if you contribute to the CPP Post-Retirement Benefit (PRB).

Key Points About Working While Receiving CPP:

• If you are under 70 years old, you can still make CPP contributions.
• These contributions increase your retirement income through the CPP Post-Retirement Benefit.
• The PRB is automatically paid to you the following year and continues for life.
• If you are 65 or older, you can choose to stop contributing to CPP.
• At 70 years old, CPP contributions stop automatically, even if you continue working.

By continuing to contribute, individuals can maximize their retirement income while remaining active in the workforce.

CPP Eligibility for Special Circumstances

1. If You Lived and Worked in Quebec

If you worked in Quebec, you may have contributed to the Québec Pension Plan (QPP) instead of the CPP. The CPP and QPP coordinate to ensure that all contributors receive their rightful retirement benefits.

You should contact Retraite Québec if:

• You only worked in Quebec.
• You worked in Quebec and another province/territory and currently live in Quebec.
• You worked in Quebec but now live outside Canada, and your last residence in Canada was in Quebec.

If eligible, your retirement benefits will come from QPP instead of CPP.

2. If You Lived and Worked in Another Country

Canada has international social security agreements with many countries, allowing individuals to qualify for pensions from both Canada and another country.

If you worked in Canada and another country, you might be able to receive both a CPP pension and a foreign pension based on your work history in each location.

To check if your country has an agreement with Canada, visit the Service Canada website or contact their office for assistance.

What Happens If You Die Before Receiving CPP Retirement Pension?

If an individual passes away before applying for their CPP retirement pension, certain rules apply:

• If under 70 years old, the CPP retirement pension cannot be transferred to anyone else.
• If over 70 years old, the deceased’s estate can apply within one year of their passing.
• The estate may receive up to 11 months’ worth of pension payments.
• The family of the deceased may be eligible for other CPP benefits, such as:
  • CPP Survivor’s Pension (for a spouse or common-law partner).
  • CPP Death Benefit (a one-time payment to the estate).
  • CPP Children’s Benefit (for dependent children of the deceased).

If a loved one passes away before receiving CPP, it is essential to contact Service Canada to check for potential survivor benefits.

How to Apply for CPP Retirement Benefits?

Applying for CPP is a straightforward process that can be done online or by mail.

Steps to Apply for CPP:

1. Log in to My Service Canada Account (MSCA).
2. Complete the CPP retirement pension application.
3. Submit required documents such as proof of age and identity.
4. Wait for processing and approval from Service Canada.

Once approved, you will start receiving monthly CPP payments based on your contributions and chosen retirement age.

When Will Old Age Security (OAS) Benefits Be Paid in February 2025?

The Old Age Security (OAS) program is a federal pension that provides financial support to seniors aged 65 and above. It is not based on employment history, meaning even individuals who have never worked or are still working can qualify for OAS.

For February 2025, OAS payments will be issued on February 26, 2025. This includes additional benefits such as the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), Allowance, and Allowance for the Survivor for eligible recipients.

Do You Qualify for Old Age Security (OAS)?

To qualify for Old Age Security (OAS), you must meet certain age and residency requirements.

Eligibility for Canadians Living in Canada

You may qualify for OAS if you:

• Are 65 years old or older.
• Are a Canadian citizen or legal resident when your OAS pension is approved.
• Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since turning 18.

Eligibility for Canadians Living Outside Canada

If you are living outside Canada, you must:

• Be 65 years old or older.
• Have been a Canadian citizen or legal resident on the day before leaving Canada.
• Have lived in Canada for at least 20 years since turning 18.

Special Considerations for Canadians Working Abroad

Canadians working outside Canada for a Canadian employer (such as the Canadian Armed Forces or financial institutions) may count their time abroad as Canadian residence if they meet one of the following conditions:

• Returned to Canada within six months after ending their employment.
• Turned 65 while still employed and maintained residence in Canada during their time abroad.

To qualify, applicants must provide:

1. Proof of employment from their employer.
2. Proof of returning to Canada, unless they turned 65 while still working abroad.

OAS Eligibility Under International Agreements

If you have lived or worked in another country, you may still qualify for OAS if:

• You have lived in a country that has a social security agreement with Canada.
• You have contributed to that country’s social security system.

Canada has international agreements with several countries, allowing individuals to combine residency periods from both Canada and another country to meet eligibility requirements.

Extra OAS Payments Based on Income and Age

In addition to the standard Old Age Security pension, eligible seniors may qualify for additional financial assistance based on their income and marital status.

1. Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)

The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a tax-free monthly payment for low-income seniors receiving OAS pensions.

Who Qualifies for GIS?

You may be eligible if you:

• Are 65 years or older.
• Receive OAS pension.
• Are a Canadian citizen or legal resident.
• Live in Canada.
• Have an income below the maximum annual GIS threshold, which varies based on marital status.

GIS payments are reviewed annually based on your tax return. If you do not file taxes, you may not receive GIS benefits.

2. Allowance for Spouses of GIS Recipients

The Allowance is a benefit for low-income individuals aged 60 to 64 whose spouse or common-law partner receives the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).

Who Qualifies for the Allowance?

• Your spouse/common-law partner receives GIS.
• You are 60 to 64 years old.
• You are a Canadian citizen or legal resident.
• You have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since turning 18.
• Your combined income with your spouse is below the annual maximum threshold.

If you qualify, you will receive payments until you turn 65, at which point you will transition to the OAS pension and GIS (if eligible).

3. Allowance for the Survivor

The Allowance for the Survivor is for individuals aged 60 to 64 who have lost their spouse or common-law partner and have not remarried or entered a new relationship.

Who Qualifies for the Allowance for the Survivor?

• Your spouse or common-law partner has passed away.
• You are 60 to 64 years old.
• You are a Canadian citizen or legal resident.
• You have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since turning 18.
• Your annual income is below the maximum threshold.

This benefit provides temporary financial relief until the recipient reaches age 65 and becomes eligible for OAS and GIS.

One-Time Payments for Seniors in 2025

The Canadian government occasionally offers one-time payments to seniors, especially those in lower income brackets or older age groups.

One notable past payment was the One-Time Payment for Older Seniors, provided to individuals born before June 30, 1947. While no official announcement has been made regarding similar payments in 2025, it’s essential to monitor Government of Canada updates for any new financial assistance programs.

How to Apply for OAS Benefits?

Applying for Old Age Security can be done online or by mail. In some cases, Service Canada automatically enrolls eligible seniors, but others may need to apply manually.

Steps to Apply for OAS:

• Check if you are automatically enrolled: Service Canada may send you a notification letter before your 65th birthday.
• Apply online through My Service Canada Account (MSCA).
• Submit a paper application if you are not eligible for online enrollment.
• Provide supporting documents, such as proof of residency if required.
• Wait for approval and receive payments directly into your bank account.

If you have not received an automatic enrollment letter by age 64, it is recommended to apply six months before your 65th birthday.

How Can You Check the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Payment Date?

The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment provided to eligible families to help with the cost of raising children under 18 years old.

It is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and is designed to provide financial support based on family income and number of children.

The CCB payment for February 2025 is scheduled for February 20, 2025. Families who are eligible will receive their payments via direct deposit or cheque, depending on their preference.

Understanding who qualifies for CCB, how payments are calculated, and what to do if payments are delayed is essential for families relying on this benefit.

Who Can Get the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?

To qualify for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), you must meet all of the following conditions:

1. You live with a child under 18 years old.

2. You are primarily responsible for the child’s care and upbringing.

3. You are a resident of Canada for tax purposes.

4. You or your spouse/common-law partner fall under one of the following categories:

• Canadian citizen.
• Permanent resident.
• Protected person (approved by the Immigration and Refugee Board).
• Registered under the Indian Act.
• Temporary resident who has lived in Canada for at least 18 months and holds a valid permit in the 19th month.

Who Is Considered “Primarily Responsible” for the Child?

The person primarily responsible for the child’s care should apply for CCB. Primary responsibility includes:

• Supervising the child’s daily activities and needs.
• Ensuring the child’s medical needs are met.
• Arranging childcare when necessary.

Who Should Apply for CCB in Two-Parent Households?

• If a female parent lives with the child, she is presumed to be the primary caregiver under the Income Tax Act and should apply.
• If the other parent is primarily responsible, they must submit a signed letter from the female parent confirming this arrangement.
• If the child has same-sex parents, only one parent should apply for all children in the household.

Child Custody Arrangements and CCB Payments

Child custody arrangements can impact CCB eligibility. The CRA considers custody arrangements to determine whether one or both parents can receive payments.

1. Shared Custody (40% to 60% of Time With Each Parent)

• The child lives with both parents equally or nearly equally (between 40% and 60% of the time).
• Both parents should apply for CCB separately.
• Each parent receives 50% of the benefit amount based on their own income.

Example: If a child lives with Parent A for one week and with Parent B for one week, both parents are eligible for 50% of the CCB each month.

2. Full Custody (More Than 60% of Time With One Parent)

• The child lives with one parent more than 60% of the time.
• Only the parent with full custody should apply for the CCB.
• The parent with less than 40% custody is not eligible for CCB payments.

Example: If a child lives with Parent A from Monday to Friday and stays with Parent B only on weekends, Parent A qualifies for the full CCB amount.

3. Temporary Changes in Custody

If custody changes temporarily (e.g., summer vacation), the parent caring for the child during that time can apply for CCB.
When custody returns to the original parent, they must reapply to restart payments.

How Is CCB Calculated?

The CCB amount is based on:

• Adjusted family net income from the previous tax year.
• Number of eligible children under 18.
• Eligibility for the Child Disability Benefit (if applicable).

CCB Payment Adjustments Every July

CCB payments are recalculated every July based on the previous year’s income.

• July 2024 – June 2025 payments: Based on 2023 family income.
• July 2023 – June 2024 payments: Based on 2022 family income.

This means that if your income changes in 2023, your CCB payments will be adjusted starting in July 2024.

Children With Disabilities and the Child Disability Benefit (CDB)

If your child is eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), you may also receive the Child Disability Benefit (CDB).

• The maximum CDB for July 2024 – June 2025 is $3,322 per year ($276.83 per month per child).
• If your total CCB for the year is less than $240, you will receive a lump sum payment in July instead of monthly installments.

How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?

You can apply for CCB:

1. Online via CRA My Account

• Fastest method (processing time: 8 weeks).
• Submit a CCB application through the Birth Registration Service (if applicable).

2. By Mail (Paper Application)

• Processing time: 11 weeks.
• Download Form RC66: Canada Child Benefits Application.
• Mail the completed form to CRA’s tax centre.

Who Qualifies for the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) This Month?

The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a monthly tax credit payment that helps eligible Ontarians with energy costs, property taxes, and sales tax. It combines three separate credits:

1. Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
2. Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
3. Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)

The OTB is funded by the Province of Ontario and is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Payments are typically issued on the 10th of each month, starting from July 2025 based on your 2024 income tax return.

For February 2025, there will be no OTB payment because OTB payments for the year start in July 2025. However, if you qualify for OTB, your monthly payments will continue from that point forward.

How Are Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) Payments Issued?

• OTB payments are issued monthly on the 10th, unless the 10th falls on a weekend or statutory holiday, in which case the payment is sent on the last working day before the 10th.
• Annual OTB amounts are divided into 12 payments, except for individuals who opt for a one-time lump sum payment.
• If your OTB entitlement is $360 or less, you will receive it as a lump sum in July rather than monthly payments.
• If you filed your 2024 tax return after June 19, 2025, your OTB payments may be delayed.

How to Apply for Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)?

There is no separate application for the Ontario Trillium Benefit. To receive it, you must:

1. File your 2024 income tax and benefit return by the deadline.
2. Complete Form ON-BEN (Ontario Benefits) when filing your return.
3. If eligible, the CRA will automatically calculate your OTB entitlement.

Even if you have no income, you should still file a tax return to ensure you receive the OTB payment if you qualify.

Canada Benefits Full Payment Dates for 2025

Below is a month-by-month breakdown of all federal and provincial benefits payments in Canada for 2025.

Month	CCB	OAS & GIS	CPP	GST/HST Credit	OTB	CCR	ACWB	ACFB	Veteran Disability Pension
January	20 Jan	29 Jan	29 Jan	3 Jan	10 Jan	15 Jan	10 Jan	–	30 Jan
February	20 Feb	26 Feb	26 Feb	–	10 Feb	–	–	27 Feb	27 Feb
March	20 Mar	27 Mar	27 Mar	–	10 Mar	–	–	–	28 Mar
April	17 Apr	28 Apr	28 Apr	4 Apr	10 Apr	15 Apr	–	–	29 Apr
May	20 May	28 May	28 May	–	9 May	–	–	27 May	29 May
June	20 Jun	26 Jun	26 Jun	–	10 Jun	–	–	–	27 Jun
July	18 Jul	29 Jul	29 Jul	4 Jul	10 Jul	15 Jul	11 Jul	–	30 Jul
August	20 Aug	27 Aug	27 Aug	–	8 Aug	–	–	27 Aug	28 Aug
September	19 Sep	25 Sep	25 Sep	–	10 Sep	–	–	–	26 Sep
October	20 Oct	29 Oct	29 Oct	3 Oct	10 Oct	15 Oct	10 Oct	–	30 Oct
November	20 Nov	26 Nov	26 Nov	–	10 Nov	–	–	27 Nov	27 Nov
December	12 Dec	22 Dec	22 Dec	–	10 Dec	–	–	–	23 Dec

Conclusion

The Canada February 2025 Benefits Payments play a crucial role in supporting families, seniors, and low-income individuals across the country.

Understanding eligibility criteria, payment dates, and how to check your benefits ensures you receive financial assistance on time. Whether you rely on CPP, OAS, CCB, GST/HST, or OTB, staying informed helps you manage your finances efficiently.

To avoid payment delays, ensure your tax return is filed, direct deposit is set up, and your CRA information is updated. If you experience any issues, check CRA My Account or contact Service Canada for assistance.

FAQs

Can I receive multiple benefits at the same time?

Yes, you can qualify for multiple benefits such as OAS, CPP, and CCB if you meet the eligibility criteria for each program.

What should I do if my income changes during the year?

Your benefits will be recalculated every July based on the previous year’s income, so ensure you file your tax return on time.

How can I update my banking details for direct deposit?

Log in to CRA My Account, navigate to Direct Deposit, and update your banking information to receive payments securely.

Do I need to reapply for benefits every year?

Most benefits are automatically renewed, but you must file your tax return annually to continue receiving payments like CCB and OTB.

What happens if my payment date falls on a weekend or holiday?

If a payment date falls on a weekend or public holiday, the benefit is issued on the last business day before the due date.