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Families & benefits

Complete Guide to Form RC66 for CCB Payments

JHG Tax TeamReviewed by the JHG Team Published 4 min read

Your Easy Guide to Applying for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) with Form RC66

The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help families with children under 18 manage the costs of raising a child. If you’re a parent, guardian, or newcomer to Canada, and haven’t applied yet, you’ll need to use Form RC66 to get started.

What is Form RC66?

Form RC66 is your official application to receive the CCB. When you fill it out, you’re not just signing up for the federal child benefit—it also automatically checks your eligibility for:

  • GST/HST Credit – Helps low- to moderate-income families cover sales taxes.
  • Climate Action Incentive Payment – A rebate to help with carbon tax costs.
  • Provincial and Territorial Child Benefits – Additional supports depending on where you live.

Who Should Apply?

You should complete Form RC66 if:

  • You’re a parent, legal guardian or primary caregiver of a child under 18.
  • You’re a new parent, moving to Canada, or recently had a change in custody or family status.

The person primarily responsible for the child’s upbringing should apply. That means the one who takes care of the child’s day-to-day needs, like meals, clothing, medical appointments and school support.

How to Apply

There are a few ways to apply:

  • Online: Log into your CRA My Account and apply electronically.
  • By paper: Download and fill out the PDF of Form RC66. You can complete it on your computer or print and fill it out by hand.
  • New to Canada? You’ll also need to fill out Form RC66SCH to confirm your status in Canada and your income history.

Benefits You May Qualify For

By applying once using Form RC66, you’ll be considered for multiple benefits:

  • Canada Child Benefit (CCB): Non-taxable monthly support based on your family’s income and number of children.
  • GST/HST Credit: Quarterly payments that help offset sales taxes.
  • Climate Action Incentive: Quarterly payments to help with rising environmental costs.
  • Regional Benefits: Additional child-related supports available in your province or territory.

How Much Could You Receive?

For the benefit year 2024-2025, the maximum annual Canada Child Benefit amounts are:

  • $7,787 per child under age 6
  • $6,570 per child aged 6 to 17

Your payments are recalculated every July based on your family’s net income from the previous tax year.

Must-Know Tips to Keep Your Payments Coming

  • File your taxes each year on time, even if you earned no income.
  • Inform the CRA about changes like a new baby, custody arrangements, or marital status.
  • Update your contact and banking info in your CRA account to avoid delays.

Keeping current with the CRA ensures you’re always getting the correct benefit amounts without interruption.

Where to Download the Forms

Download the official forms you need using the links below:

Final Thoughts

Applying for the Canada Child Benefit is quick, straightforward, and can make a big difference in your monthly budget. With just one form, you could unlock several federal and provincial financial supports for your family.

Don’t miss out—apply today and make sure your family receives what it’s entitled to!

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Frequently asked questions

What is Form RC66 Canada?

Form RC66 is the official application form from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) that you use to apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). When you submit this form, you’re also automatically considered for other benefits like the GST/HST credit and provincial child benefits.

How do I apply for Canada Child Benefit?

You can apply for the Canada Child Benefit by completing Form RC66 either online through your CRA My Account or by downloading and mailing in a paper form. You should apply if you’re a parent or primary caregiver of a child under 18 and haven’t registered yet.

Who is eligible for CCB payments in Canada?

You’re eligible for CCB payments if you’re the primary caregiver of a child under 18 and you’re responsible for their day-to-day care like meals, clothing, medical appointments, and school support. Both parents living in Canada and newcomers to Canada can apply using Form RC66.

Do I automatically get Canada Child Benefit when my baby is born?

No, the Canada Child Benefit is not automatic—you need to apply by completing Form RC66 even if you’re a new parent. The person who is primarily responsible for caring for the child should submit the application to the CRA as soon as possible after birth.

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Make sure every benefit is claimed

Benefits like the CCB depend on filing on time. We file your return and keep your benefit applications current.