The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will continue providing parental benefits in 2025, offering financial support to new parents taking time off work to care for their child. These benefits, available through Employment Insurance (EI), help families by replacing a portion of their income during parental leave.
What Are CRA Parental Benefits?
Parental benefits are designed to assist parents with financial stability while they take leave from work following childbirth or adoption. The benefits fall under two main categories: standard and extended.
The standard parental benefit provides 55% of weekly earnings for up to 40 weeks, with a limit of 35 weeks per parent. The extended parental benefit offers 33% of weekly earnings for up to 69 weeks, with a maximum of 61 weeks per parent. Parents can decide which option suits their needs based on their financial situation and time off required.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify, applicants must be the biological, adoptive, or legally recognized parents of a newborn or newly adopted child. They must have accumulated at least 600 insured work hours in the last 52 weeks or since their previous EI claim. Additionally, they should have reduced their work hours and contributed to Employment Insurance through their job.
How Much Can You Receive?
The payment amount depends on the parent’s earnings and the type of benefit chosen. Standard benefits offer 55% of average weekly earnings, with a maximum of approximately $668 per week (subject to updates in 2025). Extended benefits provide 33% of weekly earnings, up to $401 per week. The government revises these amounts annually to reflect economic conditions.
Payment Dates for 2025
Parental benefits are deposited every two weeks. Once an application is approved, the first payment typically arrives within 28 days. The exact payment schedule depends on the processing time and the applicant’s selected benefit type.
How to Apply?
Applications can be submitted online through the Government of Canada website or in person at a Service Canada office. Required documents include proof of birth or adoption and employment records. Processing can take up to four weeks before payments begin.
Final Thoughts
CRA Parental Benefits provide essential financial relief for parents during the early months of child-rearing. With adjustments expected in 2025, staying updated on eligibility requirements and payment rates ensures timely access to these benefits. Planning ahead and applying as soon as possible will help parents receive uninterrupted support.