Canadian families across the country are preparing for the first Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment of 2026, scheduled to arrive on January 20, as part of the federal government’s ongoing support for parents and guardians raising children under the age of 18.
What is the Canada Child Benefit scheme?
This tax-free monthly benefit, administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), is one of the most significant cash supports available to families, helping with everyday costs like food, clothing and childcare.
The Canada Child Benefit is income-tested, meaning the amount a family receives depends largely on their adjusted family net income (AFNI) and the number and ages of their children. Although the maximum benefit amounts apply to lower-income households, payments gradually decrease as income rises above set thresholds.
Do you qualify for the payment?
The CRA has confirmed that CCB payments will continue monthly throughout 2026, with dates including February 20, March 20 and beyond, typically landing around the 20th of each month. Families will also see a new payment schedule continue through December 11, 2026.
To qualify for the benefit, applicants must live with a child under 18, be primarily responsible for the child’s care, and be a resident of Canada for tax purposes. Eligible statuses include Canadian citizens, permanent residents, protected persons and qualifying temporary residents who meet certain residency requirements.
How much money will you get?
For the benefit period covering July 2025-June 2026, the maximum annual CCB amounts are $7,997 per child aged under six years (about $666.41) per month and $6,748 per child aged six to 17 (about $562.33 per month).
Families with higher incomes may receive reduced payments based on CRA’s formula, which begins reducing benefits once AFNI exceeds approximately $37,487.
In addition to the base CCB, families with children eligible for the Disability Tax Credit may also receive the Child Disability Benefit (CDB). For July 2025-June 2026, the CDB can add up to $3,411 annually per eligible child, or about $284.25 each month, according to official data.