Karen Minn
British Columbia families are set to receive a major financial boost beginning in July 2025, thanks to an update in the BC Family Benefit program.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that eligible households will receive $260 per child monthly, offering consistent support amid the rising cost of living and childcare expenses.
This move is expected to benefit thousands of low- and middle-income families, especially those navigating challenges tied to raising children in urban centers like Vancouver, Victoria, and Surrey.
What Is the BC Family Benefit 2025?
The BC Family Benefit is a monthly financial assistance program designed to help families with children under 18. It aims to:
- Reduce child poverty
- Provide economic relief for everyday expenses
- Support household stability
- Deliver funds directly and consistently via CRA deposits
Starting in July 2025, the enhanced version increases monthly support to $260 per eligible child, helping working families afford essentials such as food, rent, school supplies, and transportation.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2025 BC Family Benefit, families must meet the following conditions:
- Be residents of British Columbia
- Have one or more children under 18
- Fall within the low-to-moderate income range
- File a tax return annually, even if no income is reported
Important: This benefit is non-taxable and automatically calculated based on the most recent tax return.
Monthly Payment Amounts Based on Family Structure
Here is a breakdown of how much you can expect:
| Family Type | Monthly Amount (Per Child) | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Single-parent household, 1 child | $260 | Net income under approx. $35,000 |
| Dual-income family, 2 children | $520 | Combined income under approx. $55,000 |
| Family with 3+ children | $780+ | Amount increases with each eligible child |
Confirmed Payment Dates: July to December 2025
Eligible families will receive payments monthly on the following dates:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| July 2025 | July 19, 2025 |
| August 2025 | August 20, 2025 |
| September 2025 | September 19, 2025 |
| October 2025 | October 18, 2025 |
| November 2025 | November 20, 2025 |
| December 2025 | December 18, 2025 |
What You Should Do Now
To prepare for the new benefit:
- Review your CRA account to ensure your banking details and family information are up to date
- File your taxes for 2024 if you haven’t already
- Track your deposits around the scheduled payment dates
- Reach out to CRA if your payments are delayed or missing
Remember: Payments will show up as direct deposits, and no separate application is needed if you meet the criteria.
Other Financial Supports That May Help
Families receiving the BC Family Benefit may also qualify for other forms of assistance:
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – federal-level support
- Climate Action Tax Credit (CATC) – issued alongside provincial benefits
- Rental Assistance Programs – tailored for low-income households
- Disability Benefits – if your child or household member qualifies
Combining these supports could offer significant annual financial relief.
The $260-per-child monthly payment under the BC Family Benefit Canada 2025 is a welcome relief for British Columbia families facing inflation, housing pressures, and the costs of raising children.
With direct CRA payments, structured schedules, and simple eligibility requirements, this benefit will improve financial stability for thousands of households.
Families are encouraged to keep their tax records up to date, monitor deposits closely, and explore other supports they may qualify for.
FAQs
When will the new $260 monthly payments begin?
Payments begin in July 2025, with scheduled monthly deposits continuing through December. Eligible families will receive their first payment on July 19, 2025.
Do I need to apply separately for the BC Family Benefit?
No. If you meet eligibility criteria and file your taxes annually, the CRA will automatically calculate and deposit the payment.
Can I receive this benefit along with the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
Yes. The BC Family Benefit is a provincial support, while the CCB is federal. Eligible families can receive both.