The Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB) has increased, and the next payment will be sent to eligible families on August 27, 2024. This benefit is a vital support system designed to assist low- and middle-income families in Alberta through four quarterly payments.
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Increased ACFB Payment Amounts
- For the first child: The base annual payment has increased from $1,410 to $1,469, which amounts to $122.41 per month.
- For each additional child: The payment has risen from $722 to $735, which equates to $61.25 per month.
- Working income component: Eligible families may also receive an additional amount, which has increased from $722 to $752, or $62.66 per month, for the first child.
Understanding the ACFB
The ACFB combines the former Alberta Family Employment Tax Credit (AFETC) and the Alberta Child Benefit (ACB) into one streamlined payment. This benefit is fully funded by the Alberta government, in addition to the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), and aims to help families with the costs of raising children.
ACFB Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ACFB, families must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: The applicant must be a resident of Alberta.
- Age of Children: The benefit is available for families with children under the age of 18.
- Income: The family’s net income must fall within specific thresholds.
- Tax Filing: Both parents or guardians must file their income tax returns annually. The CRA uses tax return information to calculate the benefit.
- CCB Eligibility: Being eligible for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is typically required for ACFB eligibility.
How Much ACFB Payment You Can Get
The amount a family receives under the ACFB depends on family income, the number of children, and marital status. The ACFB is divided into two components:
- Base Component: Provided to all eligible families, with amounts decreasing as income increases.
- Working Component: Additional support for employed families with low income, also decreasing as income rises.
Here’s an estimate of the maximum ACFB payment for the period from July 2024 to June 2025:
| Number of Children | Base Component (Max.) | Working Component (Max.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 child | $1,469 | $752 |
| 2 children | $2,204 | $1,437 |
| 3 children | $2,939 | $1,847 |
| 4 or more children | $3,674 | $1,982 |
ACFB Income Criteria
The ACFB is income-tested, meaning the benefit decreases as family income increases. The key income thresholds are:
- Maximum Benefit: Families with a net income up to $27,024 receive the full benefit.
- Reduced Benefit: Families with an income between $27,024 and $45,285 may receive a partial benefit.
- No Benefit: Families with a net income above $45,285 may not qualify for the ACFB.
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ACFB Payment Dates 2024
The ACFB is paid quarterly, with the following payment dates for 2024:
- February 27
- May 27
- August 27
- November 27
How to Apply for ACFB
Applying for the ACFB involves filing your income tax returns, as the CRA uses this information to determine eligibility and payment amounts. If eligible, you will be automatically enrolled when you file your taxes. You can manage your ACFB payments through the CRA’s My Account portal.
Key Actions:
- Tax Filing: Ensure both parents or guardians file their income tax returns.
- Automatic Enrollment: Eligible families are automatically enrolled when they file their tax returns.
- CRA My Account: Check eligibility, payment details, and update your information through the CRA’s My Account portal.
Managing Your ACFB Payments
Using the CRA’s My Account portal, you can:
- Check Payment Dates: View upcoming and past payments.
- Update Information: Ensure accurate benefit calculations by updating income, number of children, or marital status.
- View Benefit Statements: Access detailed statements of your ACFB payments.
- Direct Deposit: Set up direct deposit for faster and more secure payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I receive ACFB if I am not receiving the CCB?
No, eligibility for the CCB is usually required to receive the ACFB. - How do I know if my ACFB payment is correct?
Verify your payment amount through the CRA’s My Account portal or contact the CRA if you suspect an error. - Can I receive retroactive payments if I forget to apply?
Filing your taxes late may delay your payments, but you may still receive retroactive payments if you were eligible. - What happens if my income changes during the year?
Update your information with the CRA to ensure your benefit amounts are recalculated accurately. - Do I need to reapply for ACFB every year?
No, your eligibility is reviewed annually based on your tax return, but you must file your taxes on time each year.
The Alberta Child and Family Benefit is essential for supporting families with children in Alberta. Staying informed about eligibility, income thresholds, and payment schedules can help maximize the benefits your family receives. For the latest information, refer to the official Alberta government website or CRA resources.