Canada Child Benefit to Increase in 2026
Updated on December 21, 2025, 9:40 AM EST (Toronto Time)
The Canada Child Benefit is scheduled to rise again in 2026, providing higher tax-free monthly payments to numerous families nationwide.
This increase aligns with the government’s annual inflation indexation for income-tested benefits, ensuring that the assistance adjusts to the increasing cost of living.
Given the current challenges of housing affordability, elevated grocery prices, and high childcare costs, the 2026 Canada Child Benefit increase comes at a critical juncture for households.
Enhanced base benefit amounts, widened income thresholds, and adjusted phase-out levels will collectively amplify financial aid for families raising children.
CCB payments will be automatically updated for families who have timely filed their taxes.
What is the Canada Child Benefit?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly allowance intended to aid eligible families in covering the expenses of raising children under eighteen.
Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency, it stands as one of Canada’s most substantial and impactful social benefit programs.
The amount of benefit received hinges on various factors, including household income, the number of children, and each child’s age.
Families with lower to middle incomes receive higher payments, while higher-income households receive reduced amounts through a structured phase-out mechanism.
Unlike taxable benefits or deductions, the CCB is directly disbursed to families, exempt from taxation, thereby serving as a more effective measure of support against the cost of living.
Eligibility Requirements
- Reside with a child under eighteen
- Be primarily responsible for the child’s care and upbringing
- Be a tax-resident of Canada
- Meet immigration or residency status criteria
Eligibility undergoes annual reassessment contingent on tax filings.
CCB Eligibility for New Permanent Residents
New permanent residents can apply for the Canada Child Benefit immediately upon arrival in Canada.
No waiting period is imposed once permanent resident status is conferred.
Eligible families can submit applications promptly after landing, provided they fulfill residency and caregiving prerequisites.
For many newly settled families, the CCB serves as a vital financial backing during the settlement phase, particularly while seeking employment and arranging childcare.
CCB Eligibility for Temporary Residents
Temporary residents may also qualify for the CCB, subject to stricter conditions.
To qualify as an eligible temporary resident, you must:
- Have resided in Canada for the prior eighteen months
- Possess a valid permit in the nineteenth month that does not mention “does not confer status” or “does not confer temporary resident status”
Temporary residents meeting these criteria and primarily responsible for a child under eighteen could be eligible for the Canada Child Benefit.
Failure to fulfill either condition will render the individual ineligible until the requirements are met.
New CCB Payment Schedule for 2026
Here are the confirmed CCB payment dates for 2026:
- January 20, 2026
- February 20, 2026
- March 20, 2026
- April 20, 2026
- May 20, 2026
- June 19, 2026
- July 20, 2026
- August 20, 2026
- September 18, 2026
- October 20, 2026
- November 20, 2026
- December 11, 2026
Canada Child Benefit Increase Timing in 2026
The Canada Child Benefit increments will be effective starting July 1, rather than January 1.
Since the CCB operates on a benefit-year cycle running from July to June, for the 2026 benefit year:
- New payment amounts commence in July 2026
- Payments persist until June 2027
- Eligibility and payment calculations are based on the previous year’s tax return
Families already receiving the CCB need not reapply for the benefit.
