The Canadian government has always focused on making sure that children have the financial support they need to live healthy and safe lives. While many families know about the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), there is another program that supports children who do not live with their parents. This is called the Children’s Special Allowance (CSA).
In 2025, the allowance amount has been set at $666.41 per month per child. This benefit is mainly for children in foster care or under the custody of government-approved institutions. In this article, we explain what the CSA is, who can get it, the payment schedule, and the latest updates.
What is the CRA Children’s Special Allowance?
The Children’s Special Allowance (CSA) is a program managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It gives a monthly, tax-free payment to foster homes, child welfare agencies, and institutions that are officially responsible for children’s care.
Unlike the Canada Child Benefit, which is paid directly to parents, the CSA is only for children who are in the care of child welfare organizations or recognized institutions.
Key Details of CSA 2025
Here are the important details for 2025:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Department | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Program | Children’s Special Allowance (CSA) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Monthly Amount | $666.41 per child |
| Beneficiaries | Children in foster care & government care |
| Payment Type | Tax-free monthly deposit |
| Payment Mode | Direct bank transfer |
| Official Website | www.canada.ca |
Who Can Receive the $666.41 CSA?
Not every child is eligible for this payment. The rules are clear:
- The child must be under 18 years old.
- The child must spend at least one month in a foster home, child welfare agency, or institution approved by the government.
- The agency or institution must be recognized by provincial or territorial authorities.
- The child should not be receiving another child benefit under their parents.
- The application must be submitted by the agency, not by the parents.
Payment Schedule for CSA 2025
Every eligible child will receive $666.41 each month. The payments are made on fixed dates.
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| September | 19 |
| October | 20 |
| November | 20 |
| December | 19 |
How to Apply for CSA 2025
Parents cannot apply directly for this program. Instead, child welfare organizations handle everything.
- The child welfare agency registers the child with the CRA.
- CRA checks if the child qualifies.
- If approved, payments are released automatically each month.
- Money is deposited into the organization’s or foster family’s account.
- Funds must be used for the child’s needs, such as food, clothes, education, and healthcare.
- Agencies must keep proper records, and CRA can check (audit) to make sure money is used correctly.
Latest Updates for 2025
- The $666.41 amount is based on the maximum Canada Child Benefit for children under six.
- Children aged 6–17 years or those with a disability supplement may have slightly different amounts.
- The actual payment always depends on CRA’s approval and the child’s eligibility.
- CRA advises checking their official website for the most accurate information.
The CRA Children’s Special Allowance 2025 is a very important program that ensures children in foster care or under government custody are not left behind. With $666.41 provided every month for each child, the program supports their food, clothing, healthcare, and education.
This allowance helps give children a fair start in life, even if they are not living with their parents. Agencies and foster families should stay updated with CRA rules to make sure every eligible child gets this much-needed support.
FAQs
How much is the CSA payment in 2025?
Each eligible child will receive $666.41 per month, tax-free.
Who can apply for the CSA?
Only child welfare agencies, foster homes, or institutions can apply. Parents cannot apply directly.
When will the CSA be paid?
Payments are made every month, usually on the same dates as the Canada Child Benefit.