CRA Releases Full Pre-Christmas Payment Calendar – The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has released its full pre-Christmas payment calendar for 2025, bringing welcome clarity for millions of Canadians planning year-end expenses. According to the update, six major direct deposits are scheduled for 26 December 2025, covering key federal benefits and credits. This timing is especially important for households managing holiday costs, rent, and utilities during the final week of the year. For Canadian seniors, families, and low- to middle-income individuals, understanding which payments are coming and who qualifies can help with better financial planning across Canada.
CRA pre-Christmas payments for Canadian residents explained
The CRA pre-Christmas payments scheduled for 26 December 2025 include several core benefit programs that support Canadian residents throughout the year. These deposits are timed to ensure beneficiaries receive funds without disruption due to statutory holidays. For many households across Canada, these payments form a crucial part of monthly income, particularly for seniors, families with children, and individuals receiving income-tested credits. The CRA typically processes these benefits automatically for those who have filed their tax returns and set up direct deposit. Canadian residents are encouraged to check their CRA My Account to confirm eligibility, banking details, and benefit status ahead of the December release.
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Six CRA direct deposits affecting Canadian seniors and families
The six direct deposits arriving just after Christmas are designed to provide continuity in federal support for Canadian seniors and families. Programs such as pensions, child benefits, and refundable tax credits are included in this coordinated payment window. For older Canadians, timely deposits help cover healthcare, groceries, and housing costs during a period when expenses often rise. Families across the country also rely on these deposits to manage childcare and daily living needs. The CRA advises Canadians to allow one to three business days for funds to appear, depending on their financial institution.
| Payment Type | Target Group | Deposit Date |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | Eligible retirees | 26 December 2025 |
| Old Age Security (OAS) | Canadian seniors | 26 December 2025 |
| Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | Low-income seniors | 26 December 2025 |
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Families with children | 26 December 2025 |
| GST/HST Credit | Eligible individuals | 26 December 2025 |
Canada Revenue Agency holiday deposit timing and planning
The Canada Revenue Agency schedules holiday-period payments carefully to avoid delays caused by bank closures and federal holidays. By setting the deposit date for 26 December 2025, the CRA ensures that eligible Canadians receive their benefits as soon as possible after Christmas Day. This approach helps reduce financial stress during the year-end period. Canadians who rely on cheques instead of direct deposit may experience longer delivery times, which is why the CRA continues to encourage electronic payments. Reviewing tax filings and benefit eligibility before year-end is essential for uninterrupted payments.
What Canadians should do before December 2025 payments
Before the December 2025 payments are issued, Canadians should take a few proactive steps to avoid issues. Updating banking information in the CRA My Account is critical, especially for those who recently changed financial institutions. Filing any outstanding tax returns is also necessary, as benefit eligibility is based on the most recent tax information. Canadian benefit recipients should monitor official CRA notices and avoid misinformation circulating online. Being prepared ensures that funds arrive on time and can be used effectively during the holiday and early January period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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1. Which CRA payments are scheduled for 26 December 2025?
CPP, OAS, GIS, CCB, GST/HST Credit, and related federal benefits are scheduled for that date.
2. Do Canadians need to apply again to receive these payments?
No, eligible individuals receive payments automatically if their tax filings are up to date.
3. Will cheques arrive on the same day as direct deposits?
No, cheque payments may take longer due to postal delivery times.
4. How can Canadians confirm their payment details?
Payment details can be confirmed through the CRA My Account online portal.
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