The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a monthly tax-free payment to eligible families with children under 18. It is one of the largest financial supports available to Canadian parents.
2026 CCB payment dates
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January 2026 | January 20 |
| February 2026 | February 20 |
| March 2026 | March 20 |
| April 2026 | April 17 |
| May 2026 | May 20 |
| June 2026 | June 20 |
| July 2026 | July 18 |
| August 2026 | August 20 |
| September 2026 | September 18 |
| October 2026 | October 20 |
| November 2026 | November 20 |
| December 2026 | December 12 |
Payments are deposited directly or mailed by cheque on these dates.
CCB amounts for 2026
The benefit year runs July 2025 to June 2026 (based on 2024 income) and July 2026 to June 2027 (based on 2025 income).
| Child’s Age | Maximum Annual Amount | Maximum Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 years | $7,787 | $648.92 |
| 6 to 17 years | $6,570 | $547.50 |
These are the maximums for families with income below $36,502. Payments phase out as income rises.
How the phase-out works
CCB is reduced as family net income increases above $36,502. The reduction rate depends on the number of children.
| Children | Reduction Rate Above $36,502 | Further Reduction Above $79,087 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 child | 13.5% | 5.7% |
| 2 children | 19% | 11% |
| 3 children | 22.5% | 14.5% |
| 4+ children | 25.5% | 17% |
Example: A family with 2 children and $60,000 net income would see their benefit reduced by 19% of ($60,000 − $36,502) = 19% × $23,498 = $4,464 annual reduction from the maximum.
Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
If your child has an approved Disability Tax Credit certificate, you also receive the Child Disability Benefit — up to $3,322/year (from July 2025) paid on the same schedule as CCB.
July is the key month
CCB is recalculated every July based on the previous year’s tax return:
| CCB Period | Based On |
|---|---|
| July 2025 – June 2026 | 2024 tax return |
| July 2026 – June 2027 | 2025 tax return |
If you do not file your tax return by early July, the CRA may pause your CCB payments until the return is assessed. File as early as possible in spring to avoid interruption.
How to apply for CCB
CCB requires an initial application — it is not automatic:
- New newborn: Register the birth with your province — many provinces have an “express” registration process that also applies for CCB
- Existing child or adoption: Apply through My CRA Account or mail Form RC66
- New to Canada: Apply as soon as you meet the residency requirements
Reporting changes that affect CCB
You must notify the CRA if:
- Your marital status changes (marriage, separation, divorce)
- A child leaves your care
- Your eligible child turns 18
- You move (update your address in My CRA Account)
Failure to report can result in overpayments that the CRA will recover.
Key takeaway
CCB is paid on the 20th of each month (or the nearest business day). Make sure your tax return is filed each year before the July recalculation, update your address and direct deposit in My CRA Account, and report any family changes promptly.