Extended Universal Child Care Benefit in effect this month

Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB) — (Cultura/Liam Norris)

[Updated on July 20, 2015 at 9:08 a.m.]

Starting later this month, families will receive $160 a month for each child under six (previously $100 a month) and new benefit of $60 per month for each child between the ages of six and 17 under the extended Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB).

Since these payments are retroactive to Jan. 1, 2015, families with two children under six years old can expect $1,040 lump sum payment via cheque or direct deposit as early as July 20.

Wondering what to do with extra cash? Consider starting or topping up your Registered Education Savings Program (RESP) to save for your child’s future education. The federal government’s Canada Education Savings Grant program pays a 20% grant on contributions, up to a maximum of $500 per year.

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RESP Calculator »

The UCCB was first introduced in 2006 as a taxable benefit designed to help Canadian families through direct financial support regardless of whether children are enrolled in formal daycare programs. The above enhancements were announced in the 2015 federal budget.

Check the CRA website to see if you qualify for the UCCB. Be sure to apply if you do (and you’ve never applied before)!

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The original version of this article correctly stated that families with two children under six years old can expect a $1,040 lump sum payment. A later version of this article misstated, at one point, that families with two children under six years old can expect a $2,240 lump sum payment. It’s indeed $1,040, not $2,240.

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Kelly says:

December 5, 2023 at 2:05 am

My 18 year old is still in highschool until June 2024. Is there any way to get financial support until the time that they graduate ? My CCB was cut off on their 18th birthday. I realize that it is supposed to end when they turn 18, but I wonder if there is any kind of financial support available at all for parents of children who are still finishing school and are not quite ready to commit to a fulltime job yet.
The loss of the monthly CCB support I have been receiving over the years is tremendous and has had a devastating impact on our household! Is there support of any kind out there i wonder? Even if it was just until the child can join the work force themselves (which will be once they graduate in June 2024)
I already work fulltime and can barely make ends meet – in fact I’m not making ends meet and I am reaching out for any help that I can get before things get any worse .
Any guidance in this department would be greatly appreciated !I

Mom

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