Canada Workers Benefit: Who Qualifies and What Students Should Know
By Ravi’s Accurate Tax Services | Updated October 8, 2026
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit for workers and families earning a low income. It includes a basic amount and a disability supplement for eligible people. The amount depends on your income, family circumstances and province or territory.
Basic eligibility
You generally need working income, income below the applicable limit, and Canadian residency throughout the year. You must be at least 19 on December 31, or live with your spouse, common-law partner or child.
Students: check the 13-week rule
If you attended a designated educational institution full-time for more than 13 weeks in the year, you are generally ineligible unless you have an eligible dependant on December 31. Working part-time while studying does not remove this restriction. A tuition carry-forward alone does not establish your current student status.
Claiming and advance payments
Claim the CWB when filing your tax return. Eligible recipients may also receive automatic advance payments based on their previous return. These are advances of the benefit, not a separate bonus.
Before you file
Tell our team about your work, school attendance, residency dates and family situation. We will review your eligibility.
Ravi’s Accurate Tax Services | 647-300-1516 / 905-798-3785
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Sources: CRA Canada Workers Benefit — Who is eligible; CRA Accessing your benefits and credits.
General information; eligibility must be checked for your tax year and personal circumstances.
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