Canada Child Benefit payments increase for 3.6 million families starting July
Monthly tax-free payments rise up to $160 per child under 6 and $135 for children aged 6-17 as government adjusts for inflation.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
The Canada Child Benefit increased on July 1, 2026, providing more support to families raising children across the country.
For the 2026-2027 benefit year, families can now receive up to $8,157 annually for each child under 6, and up to $6,883 for each child aged 6 to 17. These amounts represent increases of up to $160 per child under 6 and up to $135 per child aged 6 to 17 compared to the previous year.
These maximum amounts apply to families with an adjusted net income under $38,237. Above that threshold, the benefit tapers off gradually, with the reduction rate climbing the more children a family has.
Nationally, the CCB now reaches about 3.6 million families raising 6 million children, with the federal government putting the total value of the program at roughly $30 billion a year in tax-free support. The benefit does not count as income and does not need to be reported on tax returns. Both parents in shared custody arrangements can claim 50% of what they would receive under full custody, based on their own income.
By the numbers
How much did the Canada Child Benefit increase per child on July 1, 2026?
The Canada Child Benefit increased by up to $160 per child under 6 and up to $135 per child aged 6 to 17 on July 1, 2026, compared to the previous year.
How many families receive the Canada Child Benefit?
About 3.6 million families raising 6 million children across Canada receive the Canada Child Benefit.
What is the income threshold for the maximum Canada Child Benefit?
The maximum Canada Child Benefit applies to families with an adjusted net income under $38,237; above that threshold, the benefit tapers off gradually.
