National Child Benefit

The National Child Benefit (NCB) provides support to families with low income and children. Designed to help reduce child poverty in Canada, the initiative assists parents with the cost of raising children, encourages families to participate in the workforce and reduces any overlap in similar government programs.

It is a joint initiative of the federal, provincial and territorial governments across Canada.

How Does The National Child Benefit Help Families Low-Income In Alberta?

Families with low income receive monthly cash payments through the Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB) based on family net income and number of children. The payments are adjusted yearly to reflect increases in the cost of living. In Alberta, the amount of base CTB also varies by age.

What Benefits Does The National Child Benefit Include?

The federal contribution to the NCB includes the Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB), which provides monthly payments to families low-income with children. The CCTB includes the basic Child Tax Benefit (CTB) and the National Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS) targeted at families with the lowest incomes. Qualifying families must file income tax returns and apply to receive CCTB benefits.

To determine the amount of benefits you may be entitled to receive, visit the Canada Revenue Agency's Child and Family Benefits On-Line Calculator.

What Services Are Available To Albertans Under The National Child Benefit?

Savings generated through the NCB are re-invested in Alberta initiatives to help support families with low-income and their children. These initiatives include:

Document Title and Description	Date (dd/mm/yy)	Format
Alberta Child Health Benefit
Increased shelter rates and back-to-school allowances under the Alberta Works Income Support program
Increased Child Care subsidies
Protection of children involved in prostitution
Youth transitions