How to add direct deposit for Canada Child Benefit

Please be advised that this site is not affiliated with the Canada Revenue Agency office.
It was created to provide general Canada Child Benefits information only.

Direct deposit is fast, convenient and secure. Register for direct deposit to ensure you get your payments on time in the event of an emergency or unforeseen circumstances!

If you receive one of the following payments from the CRA and have a Canadian bank account, you can sign up for direct deposit:

income tax refund
goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax credit and any similar provincial and territorial payments
Canada child benefit and any similar provincial and territorial payments
Canada workers benefit
deemed overpayment of tax
Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit, Canada Recovery Benefit, Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit

Note: If you have already signed up for direct deposit with the CRA, we will use the existing bank account information for any payments you are entitled to receive. If you have enrolled for direct deposit for the first time, you may still receive your next refund or benefit payment by cheque.

Ways to sign up for direct deposit or update your account information

Through financial institutions

You can sign up for direct deposit or change your account information through many Canadian financial institutions; banks, credit unions, trust companies. Pleaes visit your financial institution’s website for further details and instructions.

Once you provide consent through one of these financial institutions, your CRA direct deposit information will be updated the following business day. We encourage you to visit your financial institution’s website for information on how to sign up.

Online – My Account Portal

You can sign up yourself if you are registered for My Account. If you are not yet registered, why wait? My Account can help you quickly and easily manage your tax affairs online, including signing up for direct deposit or changing your account information.

You can also see if you have any uncashed cheques that are older than six months.

Online – mobile application

To start or update direct deposit information, use MyCRA.

By phone

To sign up for direct deposit or to change your account information, call CRA at 1-800-959-8281. You will need your:

social insurance number
full name and current address, including postal code
date of birth
most recent income tax and benefit return and information about the most recent payments you received from the Canada Revenue Agency
banking information: three-digit financial institution number, five-digit transit number, and your account number

Note: Do not close your old bank account until your first payment has been deposited to your new bank account as it may already be in process.

Does the CRA offer direct deposit to bank accounts outside of Canada?

No, the CRA does not currently issue payments to bank accounts outside of Canada. If you have a Canadian bank account, please refer to the direct deposit page.

How do you find your account information?

Your account information is on your personal cheques or online banking portal. If you can’t find the information, contact your financial institution.

How can you update your account information?

You can update your account information:

through your Canadian financial institution,
through CRA’s MyAccount,
through MyCRA on mobile,
or by calling 1-800-959-8281.

More information about those options is available on the direct deposit page.

If you want to learn more about the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB), including who qualifies, how much you could receive, and when payments are issued, visit Tax Service Canada’s Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Guide. This comprehensive resource explains the eligibility requirements, payment amounts for individuals and families, application details for new residents, and important CRA payment dates. With the CGEB replacing the GST/HST Credit in July 2026 and providing increased support to millions of Canadians, staying informed can help ensure you receive every benefit you are entitled to.

If you receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), now is the time to ensure your benefits continue without interruption. GIS eligibility is reviewed annually, and failing to file your income tax return or complete any required renewal steps could result in your payments being reduced or stopped starting in July 2026. Service Canada uses your most recent income information to determine your eligibility and payment amount for the 2026–2027 benefit year. To avoid delays or disruptions to your monthly GIS payments, review the renewal requirements today. Visit the GIS Renewal page for a complete guide and important updates.

Never miss an Old Age Security payment by bookmarking our dedicated 2026 OAS Payment Schedule page today. Managing your retirement budget is much easier when you know exactly when your funds will arrive in your account. By saving this link, you’ll have instant, one-click access to the most up-to-date distribution dates and any schedule adjustments throughout the year. Stay organized and gain peace of mind by keeping this essential resource right at your fingertips. Bookmark us now and ensure you’re always prepared for your upcoming monthly payments!