Tax Rates and Income Brackets for Individuals in Canada
(2026)
Understanding how income tax rates and brackets work is essential for effective tax planning in Canada. Your federal and provincial tax rates determine the percentage of tax you pay on different portions of your taxable income. Canada uses a progressive tax system, meaning higher portions of income are taxed at higher rates, and each province/territory adds its own tax on top of the federal amount.
Federal Tax Rates for 2026
For the 2026 tax year, the federal personal income tax brackets are structured as follows:
- 14.0% on the first $58,523 of taxable income
- 20.5% on the portion over $58,523 up to $117,045
- 26.0% on the portion over $117,045 up to $181,440
- 29.0% on the portion over $181,440 up to $258,482
- 33.0% on the portion over $258,482
These rates apply to your federal tax payable after deductions and the basic personal amount.
Provincial and Territorial Tax Rates
In addition to federal tax, each province and territory applies its own income tax rates. Below is a comparison of the lowest and highest marginal tax rates by province.
| Province / Territory | Lowest Rate | Highest Rate |
|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | 5.06% | 20.50% |
| Alberta | 10.00% | 15.00% |
| Saskatchewan | 10.50% | 14.50% |
| Manitoba | 10.80% | 17.40% |
| Ontario | 5.05% | 13.16% |
| Quebec | 14.00% | 25.75% |
| New Brunswick | 9.40% | 19.50% |
| Nova Scotia | 8.79% | 21.00% |
| Prince Edward Island | 9.80% | 16.70% |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | 8.70% | 21.80% |
| Yukon | 6.40% | 15.00% |
| Northwest Territories | 5.90% | 14.05% |
| Nunavut | 4.00% | 11.50% |
How Income Tax Brackets Work
Canada’s progressive tax system ensures fairness by taxing income in stages. For example, if your taxable income falls into a higher bracket, only the portion above the previous threshold is taxed at the higher rate. This is known as your marginal tax rate.
Basic Personal Amount
The basic personal amount allows most Canadians to earn a portion of income tax-free. This amount is indexed annually. Federal and provincial credits reduce the total tax payable but do not reduce taxable income.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do tax brackets change every year?
Yes. Most federal and provincial tax brackets are indexed annually to inflation and updated by the CRA.
Is my entire income taxed at the highest rate?
No. Only the income within each tax bracket is taxed at that bracket’s rate.
Why do provinces have different tax rates?
Each province and territory sets its own tax rates to fund local programs and services.
How can I reduce my taxable income?
Common strategies include RRSP contributions, eligible deductions, and tax credits.
Planning Tips
- Consider RRSP or TFSA contributions to reduce taxable income
- Use income-splitting strategies where eligible
- Review provincial credits and benefits that may lower total tax payable
Additional Read: FREE income tax clinic
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