Canadians are preparing for a series of Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) payments in the first two months of 2026. These scheduled payments include regular benefit deposits for seniors, families, and other eligible individuals. Knowing when these deposits will arrive is essential for budgeting, planning expenses and avoiding surprises. This article provides a detailed breakdown of every major CRA payment expected in January and February 2026, explains who qualifies for each, outlines the eligibility criteria, and offers tips to make sure you receive your payments on time.
Why CRA Payment Dates Matter
The Canada Revenue Agency manages a wide range of social benefits and tax credit payments. Many Canadians rely on these funds to cover essential costs, including housing, food, utilities and healthcare. Unlike payroll income, CRA benefit dates are fixed in advance, which allows recipients to plan ahead.
For seniors, families with children, and low-income individuals, aligning bill payments and spending with the CRA schedule can make a meaningful difference in financial stability. Missing a payment date because of outdated banking information or unfiled tax returns can also create complications.
January 2026 CRA Payment Dates
The first month of the year is busy for CRA payments. Several major deposits are expected including pension benefits and targeted benefit increases. Here are the full details you need to know.
January 7, 2026: Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and Related Supplements
On January 7, 2026, eligible families will see the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) deposited. The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment that supports families with children under age 18. Eligibility is based on family net income from your most recent tax return.
The payment date also applies to related supplements such as the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) for families with children who have severe and prolonged disabilities.
To receive the payment:
- Your 2024 tax return must be filed and assessed.
- You need to be living with the eligible child.
- You must be resident in Canada for tax purposes.
If your direct deposit information is outdated, the payment may be delayed or mailed as a cheque.
January 8, 2026: Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
January 8 is a key date for many seniors. The Old Age Security (OAS) pension, along with the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for low-income seniors, is expected to be directly deposited on this date.
OAS provides a monthly benefit to seniors aged 65 and over who meet residency requirements. GIS is an income-tested top-up for OAS recipients with limited income.
To qualify for these payments:
- You must be 65 or older as of January 2026.
- You must have filed your 2024 tax return if you received GIS in 2025.
- Your address and banking information must be current.
Seniors receiving both OAS and GIS will see them deposited together on this date if they are enrolled in direct deposit.
January 14, 2026: Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Payment
For Canadians receiving Canada Pension Plan retirement, disability or survivor benefits, January 14 is the scheduled payment date. CPP provides income based on your contributions during your working years. The amount you receive depends on your earnings history and the age at which you start collecting.
CPP payments are taxable and may affect eligibility for other benefits. Making sure your personal information and direct deposit details are correct is crucial to avoid delays.
January 15, 2026: GST/HST Credit
The Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) credit is a quarterly, tax-free payment for low and modest income individuals and families. The first payment of 2026 is scheduled for January 15.
To receive the GST/HST credit:
- Your 2024 tax return must be filed and assessed.
- You must be a resident of Canada.
- You must meet the income thresholds set by the CRA.
This credit is issued quarterly, so the January payment kicks off the 2026 schedule.
January 28, 2026: Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit designed for low-income individuals and families who are in the workforce. The CWB can help supplement earnings for those who qualify.
The first installment for 2026 is expected on January 28. To be eligible:
- You must have filed your 2024 tax return.
- Your income must fall within the qualifying range.
- You must be a resident of Canada.
The CWB can be split into advance payments made during the year. Missing a payment may require an adjustment when your tax return is assessed.
February 2026 CRA Payment Dates
The next month brings more deposits for various benefit programs. Staying on top of these dates helps you manage your finances into February and beyond.
February 6, 2026: Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and Related Supplements
The second monthly CCB deposit for 2026 is expected on February 6. As with the January payment, eligible families will receive their tax-free benefit for children under 18.
If you have recently filed your taxes or had changes in family status, it is important to confirm that CRA has your updated information.
The Child Disability Benefit (CDB) and other child-related supplements are included on this date for qualified families.
February 9, 2026: Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement
The February payment for OAS and GIS is expected on February 9. This date is consistent with the semi-monthly pension schedule.
Seniors should check their statements to confirm that the new January 2026 benefit amounts have been applied if there was an adjustment at the start of the year.
February 13, 2026: Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
CPP funds will be deposited again on February 13 for those receiving retirement, disability, or survivor benefits. This payment reflects the monthly support that many Canadians depend on.
Ensuring your personal and banking information is accurate will reduce the risk of delays.
February 16, 2026: GST/HST Credit
The second quarterly GST/HST credit for 2026 is scheduled for February 16. This tax-free credit supports lower income households and is based on your income from the previous tax year.
Filing your 2024 tax return on time increases your chances of receiving the full amount.
February 25, 2026: Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) Second Payment
The second installment of the Canada Workers Benefit for 2026 is expected on February 25. Advance payments help individuals and families throughout the year, with a final reconciliation when your tax return is assessed.
Staying current with CRA communications can alert you to any income or eligibility changes that might affect future payments.
What To Do Before Payment Dates
Receiving CRA payments smoothly often depends on proper preparation. Here are steps to ensure your deposits show up on time:
Confirm Direct Deposit Information
Make sure your banking details with CRA are accurate. Incorrect or outdated information can delay payments or trigger mailed cheques.
File Your 2024 Tax Return
Most benefits are tied to your most recent tax filing. Filing on time ensures eligibility and accurate payment amounts.
Update Your Personal Information
If you have moved or changed your contact information, notify CRA as soon as possible. Outdated details can cause delays or misdirected documents.
Monitor Your CRA Account
Logging into your CRA My Account before each payment date helps confirm upcoming deposits and catch potential issues before they affect your finances.
Eligibility Highlights for Major Programs
Understanding who qualifies for each benefit helps you know what to expect and why certain payments appear on specific dates.
Canada Child Benefit
The CCB is available to families with children under 18, based on family net income and residency.
Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement
OAS is for seniors aged 65 and over who meet residency requirements. GIS is an income-tested top-up for low-income seniors.
Canada Pension Plan Benefits
CPP benefits are based on contributions during working years. Eligibility includes retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.
GST/HST Credit
Available to lower- and modest-income individuals and families, this credit provides quarterly tax-free support.
Canada Workers Benefit
The CWB supports working individuals and families with low income, and it helps make paid work more financially rewarding.
January and February 2026 bring a packed schedule of CRA payments. For many Canadians, these payments are essential to monthly budgets, retirement planning, and household cash flow management. Knowing the key dates and eligibility criteria ahead of time allows recipients to plan out expenses, confirm their information with CRA, and resolve any issues before payments are due.
Staying organized and proactive can prevent late deposits and ensure that your benefits arrive when expected. As always, if there are questions about eligibility or payments, contacting CRA directly or reviewing your CRA My Account can provide tailored information specific to your situation.