As 2025 comes to an end, millions of Canadians are preparing for essential federal benefit payments set to arrive in December 2025.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Government of Canada have released the official payment schedule for the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
These payments provide crucial financial support during the busy holiday season and help families, seniors, and low-income households cover year-end expenses.
This guide breaks down all confirmed December 2025 payment dates, eligibility rules, and what recipients can expect.
Quick Summary of CRA Benefit Payments for December 2025
| Benefit Program | Payment Date (Dec 2025) | Details & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Of | Tax-free payment for families with children under 18; amount based on income and number of children. |
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | December 22, 2025 | Monthly payment for contributors; includes retirement, disability, survivor, and children’s benefits. |
| Old Age Security (OAS) | December 22, 2025 | Monthly payment for seniors 65+; may include GIS, Allowance, or Survivor benefits. |
CRA December 2025 Payments – Full Breakdown
1. Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – December 12, 2025
The CCB continues to be one of the most important supports for Canadian families. Payments are tax-free, and the amount depends on:
- Number of children
- Age of each child
- Household net income
- Marital status
For many families, this December payment helps cover holiday expenses, winter clothing, school needs, and rising living costs.
Key Points:
- Paid once per month
- December deposit date: December 12
- Must file taxes yearly to stay eligible
- Amount reassessed every July based on income
2. Canada Pension Plan (CPP) – December 22, 2025
The CPP supports retirees and individuals who contributed to the pension plan during their employment years. It also covers disability, survivor, and children’s benefits.
What to Expect in December 2025:
- Payment date: December 22
- Deposited via direct deposit or mailed cheque (direct deposit is faster)
- Amount varies based on contribution years and earnings
- Higher benefits are paid to those who delayed CPP beyond age 65
Who Qualifies?
- Canadians who contributed to CPP
- Retirees aged 60–70
- Disabled contributors & their children
- Surviving spouses or common-law partners
3. Old Age Security (OAS) – December 22, 2025
The OAS program provides monthly income support to seniors aged 65 and older. Payments are based on residency, not work history.
What’s Included in December 2025:
- OAS pension
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Allowance (for low-income seniors aged 60–64)
- Allowance for Survivor
December 2025 Payment Details:
- Deposit date: December 22
- Amount depends on age and residency length in Canada
- GIS depends on household income, so filing taxes is mandatory
Why December Payments Matter
December is one of the most financially demanding months of the year. With increased household costs, holiday spending, heating bills, and winter expenses, timely CRA benefits help Canadians:
- Cover end-of-year essentials
- Reduce financial stress
- Prepare for January 2026 payments
- Manage holiday and winter budgets
CPP and OAS recipients especially benefit from the December 22 payment, which arrives just days before Christmas and year-end expenses.
December 2025 is a crucial month for many Canadians — with multiple benefit payments arriving from the CRA just in time for year-end and holiday expenses.
Whether you’re raising children, planning retirement, or simply managing household costs, the December schedule brings reliable support.
Keeping your tax returns filed and personal info up to date ensures you receive the right amount at the right time.
With careful planning, these payments can help you cover essentials like food, heating, holiday needs, and more — offering a welcome financial boost before the new year begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does CPP and OAS arrive on the same date in December 2025?
CPP and OAS follow a synchronized federal schedule in December, making December 22, 2025 the shared date for both national senior benefits.
Do I need to reapply each year for CPP or OAS?
No. Once approved, CPP and OAS continue automatically, as long as you remain eligible and your information is updated with the government.
Why is my CCB amount different from last year?
CCB amounts change every July based on your latest tax return, household income, marital status, and number of children.