The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that the next Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment will be issued around February 20, 2026, following the regular monthly schedule. For eligible families, updated benefit levels for the 2025–2026 cycle could result in annual increases of up to $1,780, depending on income and number of children.
This is not a one-time bonus. The “$1,780 boost” reflects higher indexed annual maximums compared to previous payment levels. Families already receiving CCB will automatically see adjusted amounts in their monthly deposits if they qualify.
Eligibility and payment amounts are based primarily on 2024 income tax returns, which determine CCB payments for the July 2025 to June 2026 benefit year.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment administered by the Canada Revenue Agency to help families cover the cost of raising children under 18.
The amount is calculated using:
- Number of children
- Age of each child
- Adjusted family net income
- Marital status
Lower-income families receive higher payments, while benefits gradually decrease as income rises.
Why February 2026 Is Getting Attention
February falls within the 2025–2026 benefit year, when updated indexed payment levels are fully in effect.
The widely cited “up to $1,780” increase represents the maximum potential annual gain for some lower-income families with multiple young children — not a flat payment for all households.
For families facing high grocery, childcare and housing costs, even moderate increases in monthly CCB can significantly ease financial pressure.
What the $1,780 Boost Actually Means
The $1,780 figure refers to a maximum potential annual increase compared to prior benefit levels.
How it works:
- Children under age 6 qualify for the highest annual CCB maximum
- Children aged 6–17 qualify for slightly lower annual maximums
- Payments are indexed to inflation annually
Example Scenario
A lower-income family with two children under 6:
- Receives the full annual maximum for both children
- Benefits from indexation adjustments
- Sees combined annual increases approaching $1,780
Families with one child will see smaller increases. Larger families could see higher cumulative totals.
February 2026 CCB Payment Date
The CCB is typically paid on the 20th of each month.
For February 2026, payment is expected around:
February 20, 2026
If the date falls on a weekend or statutory holiday, payment is usually issued on the previous business day.
Families enrolled in direct deposit will receive funds automatically. Cheque recipients may experience mailing delays.
Who Qualifies for the February 2026 Payment?
Eligibility follows standard CCB rules.
To qualify, you must:
- Live with a child under 18
- Be primarily responsible for their care
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Have filed your 2024 tax return
Both parents must file, even if one has no income.
How Income Affects CCB Amounts
The CCB is income-tested.
- Lower-income families receive the maximum benefit
- Payments gradually decrease as family income rises
- There is no sudden cutoff — reductions are applied on a sliding scale
Adjusted family net income is calculated using both spouses’ tax returns if applicable.
If family income decreased in 2024, higher payments may apply in 2025–2026.
Payment Structure by Child Age
Although exact annual maximums are updated each year:
Children Under 6
- Highest annual benefit amounts
Children Aged 6–17
- Slightly lower annual maximums
Families with children in both age groups receive combined calculated totals.
Is This a One-Time Payment?
No.
The February 2026 payment is part of the regular monthly CCB cycle. The increase reflects higher indexed benefit levels for the current benefit year — not a lump-sum bonus.
What Families Should Do Now
To avoid delays:
- File 2024 tax returns
- Confirm direct deposit information in CRA My Account
- Update marital status changes
- Report custody arrangement updates
- Keep mailing address current
Unfiled taxes remain the most common reason for delayed CCB payments.
Common Reasons for Payment Delays
Even though the February payment is scheduled, delays can occur if:
- Tax returns were filed late
- Banking information changed
- Marital status was not updated
- Residency documentation is under review
- Custody verification is incomplete
Families should monitor CRA My Account for notices.
How the CCB Supports Canadian Families
The CCB helps cover essential costs such as:
- Groceries
- Childcare
- School supplies
- Clothing
- Transportation
- Housing
For many households, it remains the largest predictable monthly child-related support.
Impact by Income Group
Low-Income Families
- Receive the full indexed maximum
- Benefit most from annual increases
- May see significant annual gains approaching $1,780
Middle-Income Families
- Receive reduced amounts compared to lower-income households
- Still benefit from indexation increases
- Payments remain tax-free
Interaction With Other Benefits
The CCB does not reduce eligibility for:
- Provincial child benefits
- GST/HST credits
- Child disability benefits
Payments operate independently within the federal benefit system.
FAQ
When will the February 2026 CCB payment arrive?
Around February 20, 2026, following the standard monthly schedule.
Is everyone receiving $1,780?
No. That figure represents the maximum potential annual increase for some lower-income families.
Do I need to apply?
No, if you already receive CCB and have filed your tax return.
What tax year determines eligibility?
Your 2024 tax return determines payments for July 2025 to June 2026.
Is the boost a one-time payment?
No. It reflects higher indexed benefit levels, not a lump sum.
Can payments be delayed?
Yes, if tax returns or personal information are not up to date.
Does CCB affect other benefits?
No. It does not reduce GST/HST credits or most provincial child benefits.