The federal government is rolling out new Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefits for part-time students whose parents are disabled or deceased, officials said. Starting Jan. 1, 2025, eligible students aged 18 to 24 will receive half the amount paid to full-time students.
For 2025, that works out to a monthly flat rate of $150.89 for qualified recipients, according to Employment and Social Development Canada.
Minister of Seniors Joanne Thompson made the announcement, saying, “No child should have to choose between caring for their parents and going to school.” Government officials said the measure is expected to help 6,712 beneficiaries in 2025. Students will be required to meet a minimum attendance threshold to receive the benefit.
The benefit is part of changes announced in the Fall Economic Statement and Budget 2024, which followed the 2022–2024 CPP Triennial Review by federal, provincial and territorial ministers of finance. Other CPP amendments took effect on Jan. 1, 2025, including a top-up to the death benefit for some contributors, extending eligibility for the Disabled Contributor’s Child’s Benefit when the parent reaches age 65, and ending the entitlement to a survivor’s pension after a CPP credit split.
Under the Triennial Review process, the Office of the Chief Actuary confirmed in its most recent report that the CPP is financially sustainable for the next 75 years. Federal officials said the Triennial Review is used to ensure that the CPP continues to provide support to disabled contributors and their families, as well as to families of deceased contributors.
