Key Dates To Watch In 2026
Canada is set to introduce several federal and provincial changes in 2026 affecting taxes, paycheques, banking fees, road safety, travel perks, and government spending.
Here are 10 new laws and rules that will impact daily life in 2026:
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Automatic Tax Filing for Low-Income Canadians
Starting in the 2026 tax year, the CRA will implement automatic filing for lower-income Canadians to ensure they receive all eligible benefits.
Eligibility will focus on low-income individuals missing out on benefits like the Canada Child Benefit and GST/HST credit due to non-filing.
It is crucial to keep personal information updated for accurate benefit allocation.
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Middle-Class Tax Cut and New Federal Brackets
The federal middle-class tax cut, effective halfway through 2025, will be fully applied in 2026.
New federal tax brackets for 2026 will see reduced rates for different income thresholds.
The Basic Personal Amount (BPA) will also be adjusted, and the TFSA contribution limit for 2026 remains $7,000.
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Employment Insurance Changes
Starting January 1, 2026, the maximum insurable earnings for Employment Insurance will rise to $68,900.
Both employee and employer annual premiums will increase accordingly.
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Canada Strong Pass Returns
The Canada Strong Pass program will return in 2026, offering discounts and free access to national parks and select attractions during specific windows.
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First-Time Home Buyer Rebate
A proposed federal measure aims to remove GST for first-time homebuyers of new homes under $1,000,000, with potential rebates for homes up to $1,500,000.
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Ontario’s Licence Suspension Law
Ontario will implement stricter licence suspension laws for impaired driving causing death, motor vehicle theft, and racing-related offences.
The Safer Roads and Communities Act, 2024 outlines these penalties, subject to proclamation for full enforcement.
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