Canada Issues New Child Benefit Payments Starting February 20

Canadian families are preparing for the arrival of the second Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment of 2026, scheduled for February 20. This federal program offers valuable financial support to those raising children under 18 years of age. As living costs continue to rise, the CCB serves as a vital resource for many households across the country.

Understanding Canada Child Benefit

The Canada Child Benefit, or CCB, is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), providing tax-free monthly payments to eligible families. This initiative is designed to assist in covering the significant costs associated with child-rearing. Notably, the CCB is structured to grant higher payments to lower- and moderate-income households through a phased reduction system.

Key Features of CCB

• Tax-free payments, allowing families to retain the full amount.
• Income-tested calculations to ensure support aligns with family income levels.
• Annual recalculation of benefit amounts based on inflation, adjusted every July.

Payment Schedule for 2026

The CCB payments are regularly issued around the 20th of every month. The upcoming payment date is February 20, 2026, marking the second disbursement of the year. Below is the complete schedule for 2026 CCB payments:

CCB Payment Amounts for February 2026

The payment amount received on February 20, 2026, is determined by the previous benefit year’s rates, specifically from July 2025 to June 2026. The maximum amounts for eligible families are:

• Children under 6 years: Up to $7,997 annually (approximately $666.41 per month).
• Children aged 6 to 17 years: Up to $6,748 annually (approximately $562.33 per month).

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the CCB, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Live with a child under 18 years.
• Hold primary responsibility for the child’s care and upbringing.
• Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
• Have an eligible immigration status, including Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Families experiencing shared custody may have payments split between two households based on specific arrangements, ensuring equitable support.

Impending Changes: July 2026 Increases

A significant increase in CCB amounts is expected in July 2026, reflecting rising living costs. The new maximum annual benefits will be:

• Children under 6: Up to $8,157 (approximately $679.75 per month).
• Children aged 6 to 17: Up to $6,883 (approximately $573.58 per month).

These updates will also include adjustments to the income thresholds, ensuring that more families qualify for maximum support.

Final Thoughts

As families anticipate the next Canada Child Benefit payment on February 20, 2026, it is crucial to stay informed about payment amounts, eligibility criteria, and upcoming changes. Maintaining accurate records and filing taxes promptly helps maximize benefits for all eligible households. For further details, check your information through CRA My Account.