The Canada Child Benefit (CCB), a crucial federal program that supports millions of Canadian families, is undergoing significant changes in 2025. For families who experience the tragic loss of a child, the updated rules provide extended financial support, reflecting a compassionate shift in government policy. Here’s a detailed look at what has changed and why it matters.
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Key Change: Extended CCB Eligibility After a Child’s Passing
As of January 2025, families who lose a child will now be eligible to receive CCB payments for up to six months following the child’s death. This extension replaces the previous rule, which ceased payments the month after a child’s passing.
To benefit from this new policy, the parent or legal guardian must notify the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) of the child’s death before the end of the following month. For example, if a child passes away in January, the CRA must be informed by the end of February to process the extension.
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Why the Change Was Made
The decision to extend CCB payments was proposed in the federal budget as part of a broader effort to provide financial relief to grieving families. The change addresses concerns raised by families, advocacy groups, and policymakers over the years.
In 2021, a petition tabled in the House of Commons called for an extension of CCB payments after a child’s death, citing the significant financial burden grieving families face, including funeral and burial expenses.
The petition emphasized:
“Losing a child generates unexpected monetary expenses for grieving families, most of whom had already been struggling with the cost of caring for a seriously ill child.”
The six-month extension far exceeds the two-month extension originally requested in the petition, reflecting the government’s recognition of the need for more substantial support.
Inclusion of the Child Disability Benefit
Families who receive the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) will also benefit from the new policy. Payments under the CDB will continue for the same six-month period following the child’s death. The CDB, typically disbursed alongside the CCB, supports families caring for children with disabilities and recognizes the additional challenges they face.
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Financial Relief During a Difficult Time
Losing a child not only brings immense emotional pain but also financial challenges. Funeral costs, burial expenses, and other end-of-life costs can be overwhelming. By extending CCB payments, the government aims to provide a small measure of relief during this devastating period.
The updated rules also align with the overarching spirit of the CCB program—to support families in raising children. While the loss of a child marks the end of this journey, the government acknowledges that the financial responsibilities of grieving families do not stop abruptly.
Annual CCB Adjustments in July 2025
In addition to this new policy, families should be aware that the maximum annual CCB amounts are adjusted annually in July. These adjustments are tied to inflation and are meant to ensure the program continues to meet the needs of Canadian families.
The extension of CCB eligibility following the loss of a child demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting families during one of life’s most challenging moments. By addressing the financial burden associated with such a loss, this policy change provides families with the time and resources to focus on healing.
For families navigating this difficult time, understanding the updated rules and notifying the CRA promptly can ensure they receive the support they are entitled to. As the CCB evolves to better meet the needs of Canadians, this update stands as a testament to the program’s vital role in fostering stability and care for families nationwide.
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