New Canada Child Benefit Payment Coming Early in 2026
Some Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments in 2026 are scheduled earlier than the 20th. This is normal.
The CRA usually pays CCB on the 20th of each month, but when the 20th falls on a weekend (or payment timing would be affected), the payment date can move to an earlier business day. The CRA publishes the official schedule in advance.
Which CCB payments are “early” in 2026?
According to the CRA benefit payment dates calendar, these CCB payments in 2026 are earlier than the 20th:
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June 19, 2026 (instead of June 20)
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September 18, 2026 (instead of September 20)
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December 11, 2026 (instead of December 20)
Other 2026 CCB payment dates listed by CRA include: January 20, February 20, March 20, April 20, May 20, July 20, August 20, October 20, November 20.
Why does the payment date change?
The main reason is scheduling. If the usual payment timing would fall on a non-business day period, CRA may issue the payment on the nearest earlier business day.
This is not a “bonus” payment and it usually does not mean your benefit amount increased. It is simply the scheduled payment date.
How to check your CCB payment status (step-by-step)
If you think your payment is late or missing, the CRA recommends checking these items first:
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Sign in to your CRA account and check the payment status
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Confirm your personal information is up to date (address, marital status, banking info)
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Review CRA’s “reasons for stopped or changed payments” guidance in the CCB payment dates page
Official page (CCB payment dates + what to do if you didn’t get paid):
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/canada-child-benefit/payment-dates.html
How to make sure you get paid on time (direct deposit)
Direct deposit is the fastest and most reliable method. CRA confirms you can sign up:
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through your CRA account, or
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through your Canadian bank or credit union.
Official CRA direct deposit page:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/about-canada-revenue-agency-cra/direct-deposit/individuals.html
Important CRA note: You can no longer start or update CRA direct deposit by phone.
Reality check
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An “early” payment date in 2026 is usually just a calendar shift, not extra money.
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If your banking details or address are outdated, your payment can be delayed—so keep your CRA info current.
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Always rely on CRA’s official calendar for dates.
Official CRA benefit payment dates list (includes CCB):
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/benefit-payment-dates.html
