Canada Child Benefit
Canada Child Benefit amounts for July 2026 to June 2027, how it is calculated, and how to apply.
The short version
- For July 2026 to June 2027, the Canada Child Benefit pays up to $8,157 a year for each child under 6 and $6,883 for each child aged 6 to 17. It's tax-free, paid around the 20th of each month.
- It shrinks once adjusted family net income passes $38,237, and faster above $82,847. Both parents' 2025 returns decide the July 2026 to June 2027 payments.
- Both parents must file every year, even with no income, or payments stop.
- Apply when a child is born or moves in; most provinces let you do it on the birth registration.
- A child with the disability tax credit can add the Child Disability Benefit: up to $3,480 a year. Separated parents sharing custody each get half; see shared custody.
Canada Child Benefit: Eligibility and Payments
For a lot of families, the CCB is the biggest number in the whole tax system, bigger than any refund. And it's calculated entirely from the tax return, which means a return filed late, or a spouse who “doesn't need to file,” can stop it cold. Here's how it works and how to keep it flowing.
Who Gets It
- You live with a child under 18 and are primarily responsible for their care and upbringing.
- You're a resident of Canada for tax purposes.
- You or your spouse is a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or a temporary resident who has lived in Canada for the previous 18 months with a valid permit in the 19th month, or an Indigenous person under the Indian Act.
When a child lives with each of two separated parents at least 40% of the time, each parent gets half of what they'd receive if the child lived with them full time.
How Much: The Formula
| Adjusted family net income (2025) | Reduction from the maximum |
|---|---|
| Up to $38,237 | None: full benefit |
| $38,237 to $82,847 | 7% (1 child), 13.5% (2), 19% (3), 23% (4+) of income over $38,237 |
| Over $82,847 | $3,123 + 3.2% (1 child), $6,022 + 5.7% (2), $8,476 + 8% (3), $10,260 + 9.5% (4+) of income over $82,847 |
Examples, July 2026 to June 2027:
- One child under 6, family income $60,000: about $6,634 a year ($553 a month).
- Two children (ages 4 and 9), family income $90,000: about $8,610 a year ($717 a month).
Because it's based on net income, anything that lowers net income raises the CCB: RRSP and FHSA contributions, child care expenses and union dues. For a family in the phase-out range, that's a hidden extra return on every deduction; see marginal tax rate.
What should your CCB be?
Tell the assistant your children's ages, province and your family net income. It works out your Canada Child Benefit, any provincial child benefit, and what an RRSP contribution would add.
Applying
- Newborn: in most provinces, tick the box on the birth registration and the CCB application goes to CRA automatically.
- Otherwise: apply in My Account, or with form RC66. New to Canada? See taxes for newcomers. Payment stopped? See why benefits stop; dates are on benefit payment dates.
- New to Canada: apply as soon as you arrive; extra forms may be needed for income before you came.
- Apply quickly. Late applications can be paid back, but if the period you're claiming started more than 11 months ago, CRA asks for extra proof such as proof of birth and residence. The longer you wait, the more paperwork it takes.
Keeping It Right
- File every year, both of you, by April 30. Late returns delay or stop July's payment. See filing taxes late.
- Report changes in marital status, custody or address. Separating and not telling CRA is how overpayments happen.
- Overpaid? CRA recovers it from future benefits or refunds. If you think the calculation is wrong, you can ask for a review or object; the tax document analyzer reads the benefit notice.
CCB and Your Taxes
The CCB isn't taxable and doesn't go on your return; see non-taxable income. The other benefits paid from the same return are on Canadian tax benefits.
Just had a baby? The full checklist, including RESP grants, is on having a baby: tax and benefits. Marriage, common-law and separation all change the CCB; see life events and taxes.
Canada Child Benefit Questions
How much is the Canada Child Benefit for July 2026 to June 2027?
Up to $8,157 per year for each child under 6 and $6,883 for each child aged 6 to 17, reduced once adjusted family net income exceeds $38,237.
Is the Canada Child Benefit taxable?
No. The CCB is tax-free and is not reported on your return.
Do both parents have to file taxes to get the CCB?
Yes. Both you and your spouse or common-law partner must file every year, even with no income, for the benefit to be calculated.
How is CCB calculated with shared custody?
If a child lives with each of two separated parents at least 40% of the time, each parent receives 50% of what they would get if the child lived with them full time.
When is the Canada Child Benefit paid?
CRA generally pays the CCB on the 20th of each month. If the monthly amount is under $20, it is paid as one lump sum in July.
Sources: CRA, How we calculate your CCB (July 2026 to June 2027); T4114 Canada Child Benefit booklet. Examples calculated by us. Checked October 2026.
Last reviewed October 5, 2026 against CRA and Government of Canada sources. How we check our facts.