If you receive the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) from the federal government, you might notice a little bit more on your next cheque.

Families Minister Jean-Yves Duclos has announced that the CCB will be increased to keep up with the cost of living; that means that there is now a maximum annual benefit of  $6,496 for every child under six, and $5,481 for those between six and 17.

Duclos said that the increase will mean more money for Canadian families starting tomorrow, and that the government is committed to quote ensuring that this tax-free benefit continues to help the middle class and people who are working hard to join it.

Employment and Social Development Canada says that CCB provides over $23B annually to 3.7M families and that the program has helped lift over half a million people out of poverty.

The CCB has helped nine out of ten Canadian families give their children a better start in life, and the program has been recognized by organizations such as the International Fund and the Bank of Canada as a key contributor when it comes to strengthening the middle class.