The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that the next Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment will be issued on Friday, February 20, 2026. For eligible families, monthly amounts can reach $666.41 per child under age 6 and $562.33 per child aged 6 to 17 for the current benefit year.
With grocery, rent and childcare costs remaining elevated, the February deposit represents a key source of tax-free monthly income support for households across Canada.
Payments are calculated using your 2024 tax return, which determines eligibility and amounts for the July 2025 to June 2026 benefit period.
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.
Launched in 2016, it replaced previous child benefit programs and is now one of Canada’s largest direct supports for families.
Payment amounts are based on:
- Adjusted family net income
- Number of children
- Age of each child
- Marital status
Lower-income families receive the maximum benefit, while higher-income households receive reduced amounts on a sliding scale.
Who Is Eligible for the February 2026 CCB Payment?
To qualify, you must:
- Live with a child under 18
- Be primarily responsible for their care
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, qualifying temporary resident (18+ months), or registered under the Indian Act
- Have filed your 2024 tax return
Both spouses or common-law partners must file taxes, even if one has no income.
There is no strict income cut-off, but payments gradually decrease as income rises.
How Much Is the February 2026 CCB?
For the current benefit year (ending June 2026):
- Up to $666.41 per month for each child under 6
- Up to $562.33 per month for each child aged 6 to 17
Families with a 2024 adjusted family net income of $37,487 or less receive the maximum.
Payments decrease gradually as income increases.
Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
If your child qualifies for the Disability Tax Credit, you may also receive the Child Disability Benefit, which adds up to:
- $284.25 per month per eligible child
This amount begins to phase out once family income exceeds $81,222.
Provincial and Territorial Top-Ups
In addition to the federal CCB, many provinces and territories offer child benefit programs administered through the CRA system.
Depending on where you live, provincial payments can add:
- Up to $300 or more per child per month
These amounts are included in the same monthly deposit as your CCB.
When Will the February 2026 Payment Arrive?
The CRA typically issues CCB payments on the 20th of each month.
For February 2026, the payment date is:
Friday, February 20, 2026
If the 20th falls on a weekend or holiday, payment is issued on the previous business day.
Direct deposit recipients will receive funds in their bank accounts automatically. Cheque payments may take longer to arrive.
Remaining CCB Payment Dates for 2026 (Current Benefit Year)
- Friday, March 20
- Monday, April 20
- Wednesday, May 20
- Friday, June 19
After June 2026, payment amounts will be recalculated for the next benefit year using updated tax information.
How to Apply for the CCB
The CRA recommends applying as soon as:
- A baby is born
- A child begins living with you
- You gain custody
- Custody arrangements change
Application Options
- At birth registration — Provide your SIN and consent to share information with the CRA.
- Online through CRA My Account — Select “Apply for child benefits.”
- By mail — Submit Form RC66 to your tax centre.
When you apply, the CRA automatically assesses eligibility for related provincial and territorial programs.
Is the CCB Taxable?
No.
The Canada Child Benefit is completely tax-free. You do not report it as income, and it does not reduce your tax refund or increase taxes owed.
How to Estimate Your February 2026 Payment
The CRA offers an online CCB calculator that allows you to estimate:
- Adjusted family net income
- Number and ages of children
- Provincial top-ups
While it does not guarantee exact figures, it provides a reliable estimate of upcoming payments.
Common Reasons for Payment Delays
Even though the February payment is scheduled, delays may occur if:
- 2024 tax returns were filed late
- Direct deposit information is outdated
- Marital status changes were not reported
- Residency or custody documentation is under review
Families should check CRA My Account if payment does not arrive on time.
Why the CCB Remains Critical in 2026
The CCB helps families cover:
- Groceries
- Childcare
- Clothing
- School supplies
- Transportation
- Housing costs
As cost-of-living pressures continue, the February 2026 payment provides predictable monthly support that many families rely on.
FAQ
When is the February 2026 CCB payment?
Friday, February 20, 2026.
How much can I receive?
Up to $666.41 per child under 6 and $562.33 per child aged 6–17, depending on income.
Is the CCB taxable?
No. It is completely tax-free.
Do both parents need to file taxes?
Yes. Both spouses or partners must file their tax returns.
What if my child qualifies for the Disability Tax Credit?
You may receive up to $284.25 extra per month per eligible child.
Are there provincial child benefits?
Yes. Many provinces offer additional payments included in the same deposit.
Why didn’t I receive my payment?
Check for unfiled taxes, outdated banking details, or unreported status changes in CRA My Account.