The Children’s Special Allowance (CSA) is a tax-free monthly payment provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to support the care of children under 18 who are under the responsibility of federal and provincial agencies or institutions. This program helps cover essential living expenses for children who cannot live with their parents. If you’re managing an eligible agency, understanding CSA eligibility, payment details, and application procedures is crucial to ensure financial support for the children in your care.
2025 CRA Children’s Special Allowance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Provides financial support to agencies caring for children under 18 |
| Eligibility | Federal/provincial agencies, institutions, Indigenous governing bodies |
| Payment Amounts | $648.91/month for children under 6, $547.50/month for ages 6-17 |
| Additional Support | Extra $276.83/month for eligible children with disabilities |
| Payment Schedule | Monthly, typically on the 20th of each month |
| Application | Managed by agencies, not individual caregivers |
| Official Website | CRA Children’s Special Allowance |
The Children’s Special Allowance (CSA) is a vital financial resource for organizations that care for children in need. By ensuring proper eligibility, timely application, and accurate reporting, agencies can secure the necessary funds to provide children with a stable and supportive environment.
For more details and to apply, visit the CRA Children’s Special Allowance Official Page.
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Understanding the 2025 CRA Children’s Special Allowance (CSA)
The CSA program is designed to ensure equal financial support for children under institutional care, similar to the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) received by parents. Unlike personal benefits, the CSA is paid directly to agencies and institutions, which use these funds to provide food, shelter, education, and healthcare for children in their care.
Who Qualifies for CSA?
To qualify for Children’s Special Allowance (CSA), the applicant must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Must Be an Approved Institution or Agency
- The recipient must be a federal/provincial agency, an institution, or an Indigenous governing body responsible for child welfare.
- Individual caregivers or foster parents cannot receive CSA directly. Instead, the institution responsible for the child receives and manages the funds.
- Child Must Be Under Care & Maintenance
- The agency must have full responsibility for the child’s well-being, including providing housing, food, healthcare, and education.
- A child who still resides with their parents does not qualify.
- Child Must Be Under 18 Years Old
- The allowance is only available for children under the age of 18.
2025 CRA Children’s Special Allowance: 2025 CSA Payment Details
The Children’s Special Allowance (CSA) rates are adjusted annually to reflect inflation. For July 2024 – June 2025, the payments are as follows:
Monthly CSA Payments
- Children under 6 years: $648.91 per month
- Children aged 6 to 17 years: $547.50 per month
Additional Payments for Disabled Children
- If a child qualifies for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB), they receive an extra $276.83 per month.
These payments mirror the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), ensuring that children in institutional care receive the same level of financial assistance as those raised in family homes.
2025 CRA Children’s Special Allowance: How & When Are CSA Payments Issued?
The CSA payments are typically sent out on the 20th of each month. If the 20th falls on a weekend or public holiday, payments are processed on the previous business day.
Payment Methods
Agencies can choose between:
- Direct deposit (recommended for faster and more secure payments).
- Cheque payments (sent via mail).
To set up direct deposit, agencies must complete Form RC113 – Direct Deposit Request for Children’s Special Allowances and submit it to the CRA.
2025 CRA Children’s Special Allowance: How to Apply for CSA
If your agency is eligible, you can apply for the CSA program by following these steps:
- Obtain Required Forms
- Download Form RC64 – Children’s Special Allowances Application from the CRA website.
- Complete the Form
- Provide details about the agency, child in care, and duration of care.
- Attach Supporting Documents
- Include official records proving that the agency is responsible for the child’s care.
- Submit to the CRA
- Mail or fax the completed application form to the Canada Revenue Agency.
Reporting Changes to the CRA
Agencies must immediately inform the CRA about any changes in a child’s status to prevent overpayments or delays. The following changes should be reported:
- If a child enters or leaves care
- If an agency changes banking details for direct deposit
- If a child becomes eligible for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
Failure to update this information may lead to payment discrepancies or even legal penalties.
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2025 CRA Children’s Special Allowance (FAQs)
Can foster parents receive CSA directly?
No, foster parents do not receive CSA directly. Payments go to the agency overseeing the child’s care.
What happens if a child leaves an institution mid-month?
If a child leaves the institution before the end of the month, the agency must notify the CRA to avoid overpayments.
Does CSA affect other benefits?
No, CSA is a separate benefit and does not impact other government programs like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) or social assistance.
How long does it take for a CSA application to be processed?
Processing times vary, but agencies should expect 4-8 weeks for approval and initial payments.
Can agencies receive retroactive payments?
Yes, agencies may qualify for retroactive payments if they prove that the child was in care during a previous period but was not receiving CSA.
