How to Claim the Canada Child Benefit as a Tamil Newcomer
What Is the Canada Child Benefit?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment from the federal government to help families with the cost of raising children under 18. For the 2025–26 benefit year, families can receive up to $7,786.92 per child under age 6 and $6,570.00 per child aged 6–17 annually.
Who Is Eligible?
You may be eligible for the CCB if you:
- Live with a child under 18 who you are primarily responsible for
- Are a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or certain temporary residents
Newcomers with temporary resident status may be eligible after 18 months in Canada as temporary residents. Permanent residents are eligible immediately after filing their first Canadian tax return.
How to Apply
- File your Canadian income tax return — the CCB is calculated based on your family net income
- Apply through My Account on CRA.ca, or submit Form RC66 by mail
- Provide proof of birth for each child (birth certificate or hospital record)
- If recently arrived, provide immigration documents confirming your status
Common Mistakes That Delay Payments
- Not filing taxes — even if you had no income in Canada, you must file to receive CCB
- Not updating your marital status with CRA after marriage or separation
- Not reporting a change in custody arrangements
- Failing to update your address with CRA after moving
Need Help?
Many Tamil newcomers are unaware of the CCB or unsure how to apply. Community organisations like the Tamil Eelam Society of Canada offer free tax filing assistance and can help you apply. You can also find Tamil-speaking accountants through the Tamil Canadians directory.