Minister Metlege Diab highlights Canada Child Benefit payments increasing in 2026–2027

Minister Metlege Diab has announced that the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments will be increasing in 2026-2027, providing more financial support to families across the country. The CCB is a monthly tax-free payment designed to help families with the costs of raising children. Approximately 96,000 families in Nova Scotia will benefit from more generous payments starting this month.

This increase in CCB payments is part of the Government of Canada's efforts to lower costs for families and strengthen the program. The CCB has been a crucial source of financial support for families since its introduction, and this increase will help families manage everyday expenses such as groceries, clothing, and child care. Compared to previous years, the CCB has undergone several changes, including increases in payment amounts and expansions in eligibility criteria. The current increase is a continuation of these efforts to support families and reduce financial pressures.

Starting this month, the CCB will provide families with up to $8,157 per child under the age of 6 and up to $6,883 per child aged 6 to 17. This represents an increase of up to $160 per child under age 6 and up to $135 per child aged 6 to 17 compared to the previous year. In Nova Scotia alone, the CCB provides over $761 million in benefits to approximately 96,000 families each year. Across the country, the CCB supports about 3.6 million families, helping them care for nearly 6 million children through roughly $30 billion in annual tax-free payments.

"Starting Monday, the Canada Child Benefit is going up for 3.6 million Canadian families" said Minister Metlege Diab, highlighting the impact of the increased payments. This increased monthly payment will help cover everyday expenses like school supplies, and will be a welcome relief for many families struggling to make ends meet.

The increased CCB payments will benefit families with children under the age of 18, particularly those with lower incomes. Families who are already receiving CCB payments will see an increase in their monthly payments, while new applicants will be eligible for the increased amounts. This change will be especially beneficial for newcomer families, who often face significant challenges in adjusting to life in Canada, including finding affordable housing, accessing childcare, and navigating the education system.

For families who are eligible for the CCB, the next step is to check their payment amounts and ensure they are receiving the correct benefits. Families can do this by logging into their Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) account or by contacting the CRA directly. Additionally, families can visit the official Government of Canada website to learn more about the CCB and how to apply. By taking these steps, families can ensure they are receiving the financial support they need to care for their children and build a better life in Canada.