As the cost of living continues to rise across Canada, financial relief programs remain a key source of support for millions of households. A new $1,350 payment administered by the Canada Revenue Agency is expected to reach eligible Canadians on January 10, 2026. The payment is being positioned as a targeted relief measure designed to support individuals and families facing higher housing, grocery, and utility costs.
This article explains who qualifies, how much eligible Canadians can expect, how the payment will be delivered, and what steps should be taken now to avoid delays.
What Is the $1,350 CRA Payment?
The $1,350 CRA payment is described as a one-time financial support measure issued through the Canada Revenue Agency. The payment is intended to supplement existing federal benefits rather than replace them.
According to current information, this payment will be issued automatically to eligible individuals based on information already on file with the CRA. There is no separate application process, which means eligibility is determined using recent tax filings and benefit records.
The payment is expected to be non-taxable, meaning recipients will receive the full amount without deductions and will not need to report it as income on their tax return.
Payment Date: Why January 10, 2026 Matters
January 10, 2026 has emerged as the expected deposit date for this payment. This timing aligns closely with CRA benefit processing schedules, which often place one-time or supplemental payments early in the month to avoid overlap with regular monthly benefits.
For Canadians enrolled in direct deposit, the funds are expected to appear automatically in their bank accounts on that date. Those who receive payments by cheque may experience a delay of several business days depending on mail delivery times.
Because January includes statutory holidays and increased banking activity, ensuring that direct deposit details are correct is especially important.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,350 Payment?
Eligibility is based on a combination of age, income, benefit status, and tax filing compliance. While exact thresholds may vary by household type, the following groups are widely expected to qualify.
Low- and Middle-Income Canadians
The payment is primarily aimed at Canadians with low to moderate incomes. Income eligibility is expected to be assessed using the most recent tax return on file, which for a January 2026 payment would typically be the 2024 tax year.
Individuals whose income falls within CRA-defined thresholds for income-tested benefits are most likely to qualify.
Seniors Receiving Federal Benefits
Seniors receiving Old Age Security, Guaranteed Income Supplement, or Canada Pension Plan benefits are expected to be among the primary recipients. Many seniors rely on fixed incomes, making them particularly vulnerable to rising costs.
For eligible seniors, the $1,350 payment is expected to be issued automatically, without affecting their regular monthly benefit amounts.
Persons With Disabilities
Canadians receiving disability-related benefits administered through the CRA or Service Canada are also expected to qualify, provided income and residency requirements are met.
The payment is intended to supplement existing disability support and is not expected to reduce eligibility for other programs.
Families and Individuals Receiving Income-Tested Benefits
Recipients of income-tested programs such as the Canada Child Benefit, GST and HST credit, or other CRA-administered credits may qualify based on household income.
Eligibility is typically assessed at the household level, meaning family income, marital status, and number of dependents can all influence qualification.
Residency and Tax Filing Requirements
To receive the $1,350 payment, individuals must:
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Have filed their most recent required tax return
- Have up-to-date personal and banking information with the CRA
Failure to meet any of these conditions could delay or prevent payment.
How the Payment Will Be Issued
Direct Deposit
Most eligible Canadians will receive the payment through direct deposit. This is the fastest and most reliable method, with funds typically available on the scheduled payment date.
Direct deposit also reduces the risk of lost or delayed cheques, which is especially important during winter months.
Cheque by Mail
Canadians who are not enrolled in direct deposit will receive a paper cheque mailed to their address on file. Delivery times may vary depending on location and postal service conditions.
It is strongly recommended to switch to direct deposit before the payment date to avoid delays.
Is the $1,350 Payment Taxable?
The payment is expected to be non-taxable. This means:
- It will not be counted as taxable income
- It should not reduce eligibility for income-tested benefits
- It does not need to be repaid
This approach mirrors previous one-time relief payments issued through the CRA.
Will This Payment Affect Other Benefits?
The $1,350 payment is designed to be separate from regular benefit programs. It is not expected to reduce:
- Old Age Security
- Guaranteed Income Supplement
- Canada Pension Plan payments
- Canada Child Benefit
- GST and HST credits
For most recipients, the payment should arrive in addition to their normal monthly benefits.
Why the CRA Is Issuing This Payment
Rising living costs continue to place pressure on households across the country. Food prices, rent, energy costs, and insurance premiums have all increased, leaving less room in monthly budgets.
The $1,350 payment is positioned as a targeted measure to provide immediate relief, especially to those most affected by inflation and limited income growth.
Rather than creating a new permanent program, one-time payments allow the government to respond quickly while using existing CRA systems to deliver funds efficiently.
What Canadians Should Do Now
To avoid missing out or experiencing delays, eligible Canadians should take the following steps as soon as possible.
Confirm Direct Deposit Details
Log in to your CRA account and verify that your banking information is accurate and up to date.
File Any Outstanding Tax Returns
Eligibility is based on information from tax filings. If you have not filed your most recent return, your payment could be delayed or denied.
Update Personal Information
Ensure your address, marital status, and dependent information are correct. These details can affect eligibility and payment processing.
Monitor CRA Communications
Official notifications will appear in your CRA account. Be cautious of emails, texts, or calls requesting personal information.
Common Questions About the $1,350 Payment
Do I need to apply?
No application is expected. The payment is issued automatically to eligible individuals.
Can couples both receive the payment?
If both individuals meet eligibility criteria, each may receive the payment separately.
What if I change my banking information after January 10?
Changes made after processing begins may not apply to this payment and could result in a mailed cheque instead.
The $1,350 CRA payment expected on January 10, 2026 represents meaningful financial relief for eligible Canadians at a time when everyday expenses remain high. While it is a one-time payment, it can provide short-term support to help manage essential costs.
Staying informed, keeping your CRA records updated, and filing taxes on time are the best ways to ensure you receive the payment without issues.