What is the Canada Child Benefit?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment from the federal government to eligible families with children under 18. It replaced the old Child Tax Benefit in 2016 and is significantly more generous — particularly for lower and middle-income families.
The CCB is income-tested, meaning the amount you receive decreases as your net family income increases. Families with lower incomes receive the maximum benefit. Above certain income thresholds the benefit phases out gradually — it does not cut off abruptly.
Tax-free and automaticCCB payments are completely tax-free — you do not report them as income on your tax return. However, you must file your taxes every year to continue receiving CCB, even if you had no income. The CRA uses your previous year's net family income to calculate your benefit.
CCB calculator for 2026
Use this calculator to estimate your monthly and annual CCB for the 2025–2026 benefit year. Enter your net family income from your 2024 tax return.
This is an estimate onlyThe actual CCB calculation uses a detailed formula from the CRA. This calculator gives a close estimate but your exact amount may differ. Use the GovGuide tool for a full personalised benefit analysis including provincial supplements.
2026 CCB rates and income thresholds
The CCB benefit year runs from July to June. The 2025–2026 benefit year uses your 2024 net family income. Amounts are indexed to inflation annually.
| Net family income | Child under 6 (annual) | Child 6–17 (annual) |
|---|---|---|
| $0 – $36,502 | $7,787 | $6,570 |
| $36,502 – $80,000 | Phases out gradually | Phases out gradually |
| $80,000 – $120,000 | Reduced further | Reduced further |
| Above $120,000 | Small amount or $0 | Small amount or $0 |
Who qualifies for the CCB?
To receive the CCB you must meet all of the following:
- You live with a child under 18 and are primarily responsible for their care
- You are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or temporary resident who has lived in Canada for the previous 18 months
- You or your spouse/common-law partner have filed a Canadian tax return for the previous year
Both you and your spouse or common-law partner must file taxes every year to continue receiving CCB — even if one partner had zero income.
How to apply for CCB
Most parents are automatically enrolled for CCB when they register the birth of their child through their provincial vital statistics office. If you were not automatically enrolled, apply through one of these methods:
- Online through My CRA Account at canada.ca — fastest method
- Complete Form RC66 (Canada Child Benefits Application) and mail it to your CRA tax centre
- Apply at a Service Canada centre in person
Apply as soon as possible after your child is born or after you become the primary caregiver — CCB is not retroactive beyond 11 months.
CCB payment dates 2026
CCB is paid on the 20th of each month (or the previous business day if the 20th falls on a weekend or holiday). Remaining 2026 payment dates are: April 17, May 20, June 20, July 18, August 20, September 19, October 20, November 20, December 12.
Provincial supplements — extra money most families miss
On top of the federal CCB, most provinces offer additional child benefit payments that are calculated and paid automatically alongside your CCB. These include Ontario's Child Benefit, Alberta Child and Family Benefit, BC Family Benefit, and others. Use GovGuide to check exactly which provincial supplements you qualify for.