Tax Checksbenefits
My child benefits changed - did my income trigger a clawback?
Benefit adjustments usually hit long after the money is spent.
Is this you?
- I receive Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- My income increased due to side income, bonuses, or corrections
- My spouse or partner also has income
"Only my income matters for child benefits."
CCB is calculated using Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI). Your spouse's income directly affects your benefit, even if your own income didn't change.
Why guessing is risky
- Benefits are recalculated on the July-June cycle, not the tax year
- A 2024 income increase often causes a July 2025-June 2026 clawback
- CRA commonly reclaims overpaid benefits with interest
Safe to ignore if
- Both partners' incomes were stable and fully reported
- Benefit notices matched expectations
Stop and check if
- Household income changed
- My spouse's income increased
- I received a benefit adjustment notice
Resolve the doubt
Calculate my CCB clawback risk (2 minutes)We'll tell you if this needs reporting and what to do next.
"Most people uncover one income adjustment that explains the change before penalties apply."