The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that the February 2026 Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment may arrive earlier than usual for some families due to calendar adjustments. When the regular payment date falls near a weekend or statutory holiday, the CRA issues deposits on the previous business day to avoid delays.
For families relying on monthly child benefit support, even a slight shift in deposit timing can make a difference for rent, childcare and grocery payments. Updated 2026 CCB amounts also remain in effect for the current benefit year, based on 2024 tax returns.
Eligible families do not need to reapply if their information is current and taxes are filed.
What Is the Canada Child Benefit?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment issued by the Canada Revenue Agency to help families cover the cost of raising children under 18.
The benefit amount is calculated using:
- Adjusted family net income (2024 tax return for the 2025–2026 benefit year)
- Number of children
- Age of each child
- Marital status
Lower-income families receive higher payments. Benefits gradually decrease as income rises.
Also Read:
Canada Launches Updated Seniors Support Program With $1250 Payment: Who Qualifies and How to Apply
February 2026 CCB Payment Date
CCB payments are typically issued on the 20th of each month.
If February 20 falls on a weekend or holiday, the deposit is released on the previous business day. This year, the CRA has confirmed that February deposits may arrive slightly earlier depending on banking schedules.
What Families Should Do
- Log into CRA My Account to confirm your deposit date
- Verify direct deposit banking information
- Allow extra time if receiving a mailed cheque
Direct deposit recipients will see funds appear automatically in their bank accounts.
Updated Canada Child Benefit Amounts for 2026
For the current benefit year (July 2025 to June 2026), maximum monthly amounts are:
- Up to $666.41 per month for each child under age 6
- Up to $562.33 per month for each child aged 6 to 17
Families with adjusted net income of $37,487 or less (based on 2024 income) qualify for the maximum amount.
Payments are tax-free, meaning the full amount is deposited without deductions.
How New CCB Amounts Are Calculated
Your monthly payment depends on:
- Total family income
- Number of eligible children
- Each child’s age
If your child turns 6 or 18, your payment adjusts automatically the following month.
Families may also receive:
- Provincial or territorial child benefit top-ups
- Child Disability Benefit (if applicable)
These are included in the same monthly deposit.
Who Qualifies for February 2026 CCB Payments?
To receive the CCB, you must:
- Live with a child under 18
- Be primarily responsible for the child’s care
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Have filed your 2024 tax return
- Meet citizenship or residency requirements
Both spouses or partners must file taxes annually, even if one has no income.
Why Filing Taxes Is Critical
The CRA calculates CCB eligibility using your most recent assessed tax return.
Common reasons for delayed payments include:
- Late or unfiled 2024 tax returns
- Unreported marital status changes
- Custody arrangement updates not submitted
- Outdated banking details
Keeping information current ensures uninterrupted monthly support.
What the Early February Payment Means for Families
An earlier deposit can:
- Help cover rent due at the start of the month
- Support childcare and school expenses
- Improve short-term budgeting flexibility
Because the CCB is predictable and tax-free, it remains one of the most stable income supports available to families.
Payment Method
CCB payments are issued by:
- Direct deposit (fastest method)
- Mailed cheque
Families are encouraged to enrol in direct deposit to avoid postal delays.
Key Details at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| February Payment Date | Around February 20, 2026 (may arrive earlier due to calendar adjustments) |
| Maximum Under Age 6 | $666.41 per month |
| Maximum Age 6–17 | $562.33 per month |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
| Eligibility Based On | Residency, child’s age, 2024 tax return |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are CCB payments coming early in February?
If the regular payment date falls near a weekend or holiday, the CRA issues deposits on the previous business day.
How are the new CCB amounts calculated?
They are based on your 2024 adjusted family net income and the number and ages of your children.
Do I need to reapply for the February payment?
No. If you are already approved and file your taxes annually, payments continue automatically.
What if I don’t receive my payment?
Check CRA My Account first. If the deposit has not arrived after the confirmed date, contact the CRA.
Is the CCB taxable?
No. The Canada Child Benefit is completely tax-free.
Can provincial child benefits be included?
Yes. Provincial and territorial top-ups are included in the same monthly deposit.
Will the amount change during the year?
Yes, if your income changes or if your child changes age category.