The Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB) provides financial support to lower- and middle-income families with children under 18. In 2024, eligible families can receive up to $1,469 annually for the first child, with additional benefits for more children. However, the program follows a strict eligibility and payment schedule, and there is no direct payment in December 2024.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify, families must be residents of Alberta, have at least one child under 18, and meet income thresholds. The base benefit starts reducing when the net income exceeds $27,024, while the working benefit reduces after $45,285. Eligibility is automatically assessed through tax returns, so families must file their income tax on time.
Payment Dates and Amounts
The ACFB payments are issued quarterly. In 2024, payments are scheduled for February 27, May 27, August 27, and November 27. There is no scheduled payment in December, so families should plan accordingly for holiday expenses.
The benefit consists of two components:
- Base Component: Provides $1,469 for the first child and $735 for each additional child.
- Working Component: Adds up to $752 for the first child and smaller amounts for additional children, encouraging workforce participation.
How to Receive the Benefit
There is no separate application for the ACFB. Eligibility is determined based on annual tax returns and qualification for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). Families must ensure the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has their current information to avoid delays in payments.
Conclusion
The Alberta Child and Family Benefit is an important financial aid program for families. With no payment in March 2025, families should manage their budgets accordingly. Staying informed about eligibility criteria and payment dates ensures uninterrupted support.
