As we move through 2026, knowing the exact schedule for your Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments is key for family budgeting. The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help eligible families with the cost of raising children. This guide provides the official 2026 CCB payment dates, explains how payments are delivered, and tells you how to manage your benefits.
CCB Payment Dates for 2026
The CRA issues payments on set dates each month, typically around the 20th. If a scheduled date falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is issued on the preceding business day.
Here is the complete 2026 CCB payment calendar:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January 2026 | January 20 |
| February 2026 | February 20 |
| March 2026 | March 20 |
| April 2026 | April 20 |
| May 2026 | May 20 |
| June 2026 | June 19 |
| July 2026 | July 20 |
| August 2026 | August 20 |
| September 2026 | September 18 |
| October 2026 | October 20 |
| November 2026 | November 20 |
| December 2026 | December 11 |
Important Notes:
- Delivery Method: Payments made by direct deposit will appear in your bank account on the dates above. Payments sent by cheque will be mailed on these dates and will take additional time to arrive via Canada Post.
- Annual Recalculation: Your CCB payment amount is recalculated every July based on your adjusted family net income from your previous year's tax return (2025 taxes for 2026-2027 benefit year). Filing your taxes on time is essential to avoid interruptions.
- Provincial/Territorial Benefits: Many related benefits, such as the Alberta Child and Family Benefit, are issued alongside the federal CCB on these same dates.
How to Check Your Payment Status & Manage Your CCB
The best way to stay on top of your benefits is through your CRA My Account.
- Log in to your CRA account.
- On the “Overview” page, scroll to “Benefits and Credits.”
- Here you can view your next expected payment date and amount, see your detailed payment history, and access your CCB statement of account.
Recommended Action: Sign up for direct deposit and email payment reminders through your CRA account. Direct deposit is the fastest, most secure way to receive your money, and email reminders will alert you about an upcoming payment roughly one week before it’s issued.
What to Do If a Payment Is Missing
If you haven't received your CCB on the expected date:
- Check Your CRA Account: Verify the payment status and ensure your mailing address or banking information is correct.
- Wait 5 Business Days: Allow time for processing and, if applicable, mail delivery for cheques.
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you have filed your latest tax return. The CRA uses this data to calculate benefits.
- Note the $240 Minimum: If your total annual benefit is less than $240, you will receive it as a single lump-sum payment in July instead of monthly amounts.
When Will You Get Your First Payment?
Newly eligible families will receive their first CCB payment after the CRA processes their application. Payments are retroactive to the month after the child's birth or the date eligibility began, provided the application is complete. Ensure your taxes are filed to facilitate this process.
Plan your year with confidence. Bookmark this 2026 CCB schedule, ensure you’re signed up for direct deposit, and use your CRA My Account to monitor your payments. Staying informed is the best way to maximize this important financial support for your family.
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