As Canadians prepare for 2026, economic pressures from housing costs, food inflation, and utility bills persist. In this context, Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) benefit payments are crucial for families, workers, seniors, and low-income individuals to maintain financial stability.
Annually, the CRA distributes tax credits and benefits to help offset daily expenses, support children, supplement incomes, and ensure financial security in retirement. These payments are tax-free and follow predictable schedules, aiding millions of Canadians in financial planning.
Below is a comprehensive guide to major CRA benefits, eligibility criteria, benefit amounts, and confirmed payment dates for 2026.
What Are CRA Benefit Payments?
The CRA manages Canada’s primary income support and affordability programs, recalculating benefits yearly based on tax data and adjusting for inflation. Benefit frequencies vary from monthly to annually, depending on the program. Eligibility hinges on residency, family composition, and previous year’s income. Temporary residents must file taxes and have 18 months of residency plus valid status in the 19th month.
Direct deposit and cheques are payment methods, with direct deposit being faster and more reliable.
Goods and Services Tax and Harmonized Sales Tax Credit
The GST/HST credit offers quarterly tax-free payments to low- and moderate-income Canadians, reimbursing a portion of GST/HST paid on purchases. This credit is widely accessed and includes provincial credits like the Ontario Sales Tax Credit.
- Eligibility criteria include being a Canadian tax resident, at least 19 years old (or with a spouse or child), filing annual taxes, and meeting CRA income thresholds.
- For the July 2025 to June 2026 cycle, maximum annual amounts are set at $533 for singles, $698 for couples, and $184 per child under 19. Payments are adjusted for inflation, with increased amounts expected in July 2026.
GST Payment Dates In 2026
- January 5, 2026
- April 2, 2026
- July 3, 2026
- October 5, 2026
Advanced Canada Workers Benefit
The Advanced Canada Workers Benefit provides advance payments up to 50% of the Canada Workers Benefit to qualifying low-income workers. Recipients receive three advance payments throughout the year, rather than during tax season.
- To qualify, individuals must earn over $3,000 in employment or self-employment income, be at least 19 years old, fall below CRA income thresholds, file taxes, and opt in through CRA My Account.
- Maximum annual CWB amounts are up to $1,590 for single workers and $2,739 for families, with half paid in advance through ACWB installments.
ACWB Payment Dates In 2026
- January 12, 2026
- July 10, 2026
- October 9, 2026
Canada Carbon Rebate
The Canada Carbon Rebate allocated federal carbon pricing revenues to residents in participating provinces, with an added rural supplement for smaller or remote communities. However, the carbon pricing system was repealed, making the April 2025 payment the final installment. No rebate payments are anticipated in 2026.
Canada Child Benefit
The Canada Child Benefit remains a significant monthly payment for families with children under 18.
