This fall, many Toronto residents might notice a nice little boost to their bank accounts with a number of government benefit payments rolling out. However, keeping track of these can be confusing, especially when deposit dates shift or familiar credits appear under new names. For Torontonians managing the rising cost of living, knowing when to expect these payments can make it easier to plan a household budget.
From monthly child benefits to provincial tax credits, here is a breakdown of the key government payments to watch for this fall, including important dates, eligibility details, and how much eligible Canadians could receive.
1. Canada Child Benefit (CCB): What Parents Need to Know
For families with children, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) provides tax-free monthly payments to help cover the costs of raising kids. The benefit is income-tested, with payment amounts depending on factors such as family income, the number of children in the household, and their ages.
The October payment is scheduled for October 20 – so check your bank account today!
How Much Can You Receive?
Eligible families may receive up to the following amounts:
- Children under 6: Up to $8,157 annually per child, or approximately $679.75 per month.
- Children aged 6 to 17: Up to $6,883 annually per child, or approximately $573.58 per month.
Families with an adjusted family net income of $38,237 or less may qualify for the maximum benefit. Payments gradually decrease as family income rises above the applicable threshold.
Remaining 2026 CCB Payment Dates
Mark these upcoming dates on your calendar:
- November 20, 2026
- December 11, 2026
December’s payment is scheduled earlier than usual to accommodate the holiday season.
2. The GST/HST Credit has been Renamed
If you were expecting a GST/HST credit deposit and noticed a different description in your banking records, that’s because it has been renamed the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB).
From single individuals and growing families to modest-income households, residents will receive automatic direct deposits, extra financial relief, and combined payouts from related provincial and territorial programs.
How Much Can You Receive?
Eligible residents may receive up to the following amounts:
- Single individual: Up to $679 per year (or up to $950 total depending on combined household scaling)
- Married or common-law partner: Up to $890 per year
- Eligible child under 19: $234 per child
- Family of four (two adults, two children): Up to $1,890 total for the benefit year (including structured enhancements)
Keep an eye on your bank account for your quarterly deposits, look out for combined provincial credits attached to your total payout, or check your account online to confirm your family’s payment amounts. The Canada Revenue Agency issues these payments four times a year to help manage everyday budget demands.
CGEB 2026 payment dates
- January 5, 2026 (GST/HST credit)
- April 2, 2026 (GST/HST credit)
- June 5, 2026 (One-time GST/HST credit top-up)
- July 3, 2026 (First CGEB quarterly payment)
- October 5, 2026 (CGEB quarterly payment)
3. Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB): Monthly Payments for Ontario Residents
Ontario residents may also qualify for the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB), a provincial program designed to help offset certain household expenses, including energy costs, property taxes, and sales tax.
The benefit combines three credits: the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, the Northern Ontario Energy Credit, and the Ontario Sales Tax Credit. Eligibility and payment amounts vary depending on factors such as income, residency, and housing circumstances.
For eligible recipients, payments are generally issued monthly, providing additional support throughout the year.
How Much Can You Receive?
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC):
- Up to $1,307 for ages 18 to 64
- Up to $1,488 for ages 65 and older
- Up to $290 for residents of a public long-term care home or a designated reserve
- Up to $25 for students living in a designated college, university, or private school residence
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC):
- Up to $378 per adult and per child in a family
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC): (For Northern Ontario residents only)
- Up to $189 for single individuals with no children
- Up to $290 for couples or single parents
Upcoming OTB Payment Dates
The next scheduled payments are:
- November 10, 2026
- December 10, 2026
To receive the benefit, eligible residents generally need to file their annual income tax return and meet the applicable program requirements. Your tax return helps determine whether you qualify and how much you may receive.
If you are unsure whether you qualify, check your CRA account or the Government of Ontario’s official benefit information for details specific to your circumstances.
