Ben Nguyen 
The Manitoba Child Benefit (MCB) is a provincial child benefit program related to the federal Canada Child Benefit, though it is not administered by the Canada Revenue Agency. The MCB provides financial assistance to lower-income families in Manitoba who are raising children. This article offers parents a comprehensive guide to the MCB, including eligibility requirements, benefit amounts, how to apply, and more. With supplementary programs like Children’s Opti-Care, the MCB administered by the Manitoba government can make a real difference for families striving to make ends meet. Read on to learn everything you need to know to take advantage of this valuable government benefit.
What is the Manitoba Child Benefit?
The Manitoba Child Benefit is a monthly payment made to eligible lower-income families to help with the costs of raising children under 18 years old. The tax-free supplement is administered by the Manitoba provincial government as an income-tested benefit.
In addition to the basic MCB payment, the program also includes the Children’s Opti-Care component, which provides financial assistance to pay for prescription eyeglasses for children in families receiving the MCB.
The MCB is an important program for lower-income working families in Manitoba who do not receive provincial Employment and Income Assistance. It provides a tax-free monthly payment to help these families provide for their children.
Who is Eligible for the Manitoba Child Benefit?
To receive the Manitoba Child Benefit, families must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Reside in Manitoba
- Have one or more dependent children under 18 years old
- Receive the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) from the federal government
- Have a total family income below the thresholds for full or partial MCB payment
- Not receive provincial Employment and Income Assistance, with the exception of only the health-related portion
Families living on First Nations reserves or receiving income assistance from federal programs or bands are generally not eligible.
Eligibility is based on total family income from the previous tax year – the same assessment used for the Canada Child Benefit. Families must re-apply each year to continue receiving benefits.
How Much is Child Benefit in Manitoba?
The Manitoba Child Benefit consists of a base annual amount per child, with the full base amount provided to families below a certain income threshold. Partial benefits are paid on a sliding scale to families with incomes above the threshold but still below set maximums.
For the July 2024 – June 2025 benefit year, the base annual MCB is $420 per eligible child. The table below shows the maximum income cut-offs for full and partial MCB for families with up to 6 children for the current benefit year:
| Number of Children under 18 years of age | Maximum Benefits paid with Annual Family Incomes of $15,000 or less | Partial Benefits Paid with Annual Family Incomes of |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $420 | $15,001 to $20,435 |
| 2 | $840 | $15,001 to $20,435 |
| 3 | $1,260 | $15,001 to $20,435 |
| 4 | $1,680 | $15,001 to $22,242 |
| 5 | $2,100 | $15,001 to $24,052 |
| 6 | $2,520 | $15,001 to $25,864 |
For example, a single parent with 3 children and a family income of $14,000 would receive a full MCB of $1,260 for the year.
The income cut-offs are adjusted annually. Families with incomes above the maximum thresholds would not qualify for even partial MCB payments.
Manitoba Children’s Opti-Care Program
An important component of the Manitoba Child Benefit is the Children’s Opti-Care program, which provides financial assistance to lower-income families who receive the MCB to help pay for prescription eyeglasses for their children.
Here are key details about Children Opti Care:
- For families receiving MCB. Covers a portion of children’s prescription eyeglasses costs
- Provides up to $84 per child per year for basic eyeglasses
- Additional coverage may be available if the child has specialized optical needs
- Families must pay any eyeglass costs above Children’s Opti-Care benefits
- Can make one claim per child every 3 years or more frequently if prescription changes
To receive Children’s Opti-Care benefits, families must submit Children’s Opti-Care Claim Form along with detailed receipts within 14 months of purchasing children’s eyeglasses.
How to Apply for the Manitoba Child Benefit
Families can apply for the Manitoba Child Benefit anytime during the year by submitting an application form.
Here is the step-by-step process:
- Print the MCB application form, which is available online on the provincial website, or pick up a copy from any Manitoba Housing office.
- Complete the application fully and accurately for the current benefit year. Provide details for both parents/guardians and all dependent children.
- Attach your most recent Canada Child Benefit Notice showing your family income assessment. Alternatively, you can check a box authorizing the MCB program to receive your CCB income details directly from the CRA.
- Mail or deliver the completed, signed application form along with your CCB notice or CRA authorization to:
Provincial Services , 100-114 Garry St, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4V4
Applications can be submitted by mail or dropped off in-person. If approved, payments will be issued monthly by direct bank deposit starting the month your application is received.
When and How are Benefits Paid Out?
The Manitoba Child Benefit provides qualifying families with monthly payments deposited directly into their bank account. Here are key details:
- Benefits are paid monthly by direct deposit (Download a MCB direct deposit form here)
- The first payment will be issued at the end of the month the application is received if approved
- Families must reapply each new benefit year, applications accepted year-round
- For continued eligibility, families must complete and submit application forms annually
The benefit year runs from July 1 to June 30. To continue receiving benefits monthly without interruption, families must submit their renewal application forms prior to the end of the current benefit year.
Reporting Changes to Maintain Manitoba Child Benefit Eligibility
Since the MCB is an income-tested benefit, families receiving payments must promptly report certain changes in their circumstances to the program office. This ensures continued eligibility and that payment amounts accurately reflect the household situation.
The following changes must be reported immediately:
- Marital status, including marriage, common-law relationship, separation, divorce, death of a spouse/common-law partner
- Dependent status, such as a child turning 18 or leaving the household
- Additions, such as the birth of a child
- Income increases, including employment, EI, CCB changes, or other new income sources for parent(s)
- Decreases in income
- Address changes, both current and future, if known in advance
- Application or receipt of provincial Employment and Income Assistance
- Leaving the province for over one month with children
Promptly reporting changes ensures accurate adjusted benefit payments. Failure to report could result in overpayment and then suspension of benefits until the excess amounts are repaid.
Other Manitoba Family Benefits
In addition to the MCB, several other key programs provide financial assistance to lower-income families in the province.
Employment and Income Assistance
The provincial Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) program provides financial help to cover basic needs and some health care costs for lower-income households without children as well as families in financial need. It consists of three main components:
- EIA for Single Parents
- EIA Disability Assistance
- EIA General Assistance
EIA also includes employment and training assistance to participants able to work.
Child Care Subsidy
The Child Care Subsidy Program provides financial assistance to eligible lower-income families to cover part of their childcare costs. Approved families can receive full or partial subsidies based on factors like net family income, number of children, and childcare days required.
Children’s Disability Services
The Children’s Disability Services (CDS) program provides support and services for families caring for children under 18 with disabilities and developmental conditions. It helps families meet additional needs associated with raising a child with physical or mental disabilities. CDS can provide access to specialized consultants, financial assistance for disabilities-related costs, and referrals to other resources.
See also: Average Household Income in Canada
Contact Information for Manitoba Child Benefit
For questions, application details, or to report changes, contact the MCB program office:
Manitoba Child Benefit (MCB)
100 – 114 Garry Street
Winnipeg, MB R3C 4V4
Phone: 204-948-7368
Toll Free: 1-877-587-6224
Email: incsup@gov.mb.ca
Website: https://www.gov.mb.ca/fs/eia/mcb.html
Other Provincial Child Benefits
In addition to the Manitoba Child Benefit and federal Canada Child Benefit, other provinces offer their own child benefit programs:
Understanding The New Brunswick Child Tax Benefit
Northwest Territories Child Benefit and Cost of Living Offset
New Brunswick Child Tax Benefit
BC Family Benefit 2024/2025 Overview
Summary
The Manitoba Child Benefit provides meaningful financial assistance to lower-income working families raising children under 18 in the province. The tax-free monthly payments support these families in covering some of the many costs associated with caring for children. Families can potentially receive $420 annually per child, with the full base amount provided to households below certain income thresholds.
By understanding eligibility requirements, maximum benefit amounts, how and when to apply, and what changes must be reported, Manitoba parents can take full advantage of this financial support. Combined with other programs like Children’s Opti-Care and EIA, the MCB is an essential part of the social safety net helping lower-income families across Manitoba.
FAQs about the Manitoba Child Benefit
What is the Manitoba Child Benefit?
The Manitoba Child Benefit (MCB) is a monthly payment from the Manitoba government to help lower-income families with the costs of raising children under 18 years old.
Who is eligible for the Manitoba Child Benefit?
You may be eligible for the MCB if you live in Manitoba, have dependent children under 18, receive the Canada Child Benefit, and have a total family income below the thresholds for full or partial benefits.
How much is the Manitoba Child Benefit?
The base MCB amount is $420 annually per child for 2024-2025, with full benefits for families earning $15,000 or less. Partial MCB benefits are paid up to income levels ranging from $15,001 to $25,864 depending on number of children.
How do I apply for the Manitoba Child Benefit?
You can apply by submitting a completed MCB application form online or by mail, along with proof of income such as your Canada Child Benefit Notice. Both parents/guardians must sign the application.
When do I receive my Manitoba Child Benefit payments?
The MCB is paid monthly by direct deposit. You must reapply each benefit year.
Do I report changes for the Manitoba Child Benefit?
Yes, you must promptly report any changes in your marital status, dependents, income, address or receipt of EIA to the MCB office to ensure you receive the correct payments.
What is the Children's Opti-Care program?
Children’s Opti-Care helps pay for eyeglasses for children in families getting the MCB. You can get up to $84 per year per child, and must submit claims within 14 months of purchase.
Can I receive the MCB if I live on reserve?
No, First Nations persons living on reserve and receiving federal or band income assistance are generally not eligible for the MCB.
Is the Manitoba Child Benefit taxable?
No, the Manitoba Child Benefit payments are not taxable. The MCB is a tax-free monthly payment.
Where do I get more information on the Manitoba Child Benefit?
You can get details on eligibility, payment amounts, how to apply, and more at the MCB website https://www.gov.mb.ca/fs/eia/mcb.html or by contacting the office at 204-948-7368.
