The Child Disability Benefit (CDB) is a monthly, tax-free payment that supports Canadian families raising children under 18 who have a severe and long-term physical or mental disability. It is part of the broader Canada Child Benefit (CCB) program and is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
For the 2025–2026 benefit year (July 2025 to June 2026), the maximum CDB payment is $284.25 per month per eligible child for families whose adjusted family net income (AFNI) falls below the federal threshold. This benefit helps cover extra expenses such as specialized care, medical equipment, therapies, and day-to-day support for children with disabilities.
Payment Schedule and Amount for November 2025
Families already receiving the Canada Child Benefit and who have a child approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) will automatically receive the CDB top-up each month.
CDB Payment Table (November 2025 – January 2026)
| Month | Payment Date | Amount (CAD) | Eligibility Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 2025 | ~20 Nov 2025 | $284.25 | Child under 18 with approved DTC |
| December 2025 | ~20 Dec 2025 | $284.25 | Continued eligibility |
| January 2026 | ~20 Jan 2026 | $284.25 | Renewal or ongoing eligibility |
| Application Review | Ongoing | Varies | New applicants |
| Retroactive Payment | Upon approval | Up to 12 months | Late filing or new DTC approval |
Payments are made by direct deposit alongside the regular CCB payment. Families should ensure that banking information and tax returns are up to date to avoid delays.
Eligibility Rules for the CDB
To qualify for the Child Disability Benefit, families must meet two sets of eligibility criteria — one under the Canada Child Benefit and one under the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
CDB Eligibility Conditions
- The child must be under 18 years old.
- The child must have a severe and prolonged physical or mental impairment, certified by a medical practitioner on Form T2201 (Disability Tax Credit Certificate) and approved by the CRA.
- The family must already be eligible for the Canada Child Benefit (resident in Canada, primary caregiver, etc.).
- The family’s adjusted family net income (AFNI) must be below the annual threshold (around $75,000–$81,222 for 2025–26).
- Both parents (or the single parent, if applicable) must file annual tax returns, even if they have no income, so that CRA can assess eligibility.
When income rises above the threshold, the CDB gradually reduces rather than ending abruptly, ensuring continued support for families as earnings change.
How to Apply and Ensure You Receive Full Benefits
In most cases, no separate application is required for the CDB. If you already receive the Canada Child Benefit and your child has been approved for the Disability Tax Credit, the CRA automatically adds the monthly CDB payment.
Steps to Confirm or Apply
- Obtain DTC Approval:
Have your child’s doctor or qualified medical professional complete Form T2201 and submit it to the CRA for approval. - Be Enrolled in the CCB:
Ensure you are receiving the Canada Child Benefit for your child. - File Taxes Every Year:
Your annual tax return determines eligibility and payment amounts. - Update CRA Information:
Keep your direct deposit, address, and marital status details current to prevent delays. - Monitor Through CRA “My Account”:
You can check payment history and confirm if the CDB top-up has been added to your CCB deposit.
Families are encouraged to apply early or update their information promptly to avoid missing out on full payments or retroactive entitlements.
Retroactive Payments
If your child becomes approved for the Disability Tax Credit after you’ve already been receiving the Canada Child Benefit, the CRA may issue retroactive CDB payments for eligible months (up to 12 months prior to the application date).
Why the CDB Matters
The Child Disability Benefit provides meaningful monthly support to families managing the additional costs of caring for children with disabilities. From specialized therapy and adaptive devices to daily assistance and care, this financial aid helps ensure that every child can thrive in a safe, stable, and supportive environment.
By keeping tax filings up to date, confirming eligibility, and ensuring DTC approval, families can secure the full benefit amount and maintain consistent support throughout the year.
The Canada Child Disability Benefit (CDB) offers up to $284.25 per month for each eligible child under 18 who qualifies for the Disability Tax Credit. Integrated with the Canada Child Benefit, it helps families manage rising living and care costs.
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) November 2025 payment of about $758 will be deposited on November 26, 2025, according to the Government of Canada. Eligibility depends on age (60–70) and contribution history, with payments issued monthly via direct deposit to registered beneficiaries.
By maintaining current tax and direct deposit information, applying for DTC certification, and staying within income thresholds, parents can ensure they receive this valuable support consistently and on time. For families caring for children with disabilities, the CDB provides both financial stability and vital peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What happens if my family income goes above the threshold?
If your adjusted family net income exceeds the threshold (approximately $75,000–$81,222), your CDB amount is gradually reduced, typically by about 3.2% of income above the limit for one-child families in 2025–26.
Q2: Do I need to apply separately for the CDB if I already get the CCB?
No. If you already receive the Canada Child Benefit and your child is approved for the Disability Tax Credit, you’ll automatically receive the CDB top-up from the CRA.
Q3: Can I receive retroactive CDB payments if I apply late?
Yes. If you qualify and your DTC is approved later, the CRA may issue retroactive payments for up to 12 months, covering eligible past periods.
