Federal Retirees’ statement on Budget 2026

A strong plan for Canada’s economic future must include retirement security, support for veterans and policies that promote healthy aging.

Budget 2026 places a strong emphasis on Canada’s economic future and includes some welcome measures for Canadians. While these are positive steps, Federal Retirees remains firm in its belief that planning for Canada’s future must also include sustained, long-term investments in retirement security, health and well-being as our population ages.

Every Canadian deserves the opportunity to age in dignity, to have a healthy retirement and to know their retirement income is secure. We acknowledge the government’s efforts to improve affordability while underscoring the importance of prioritizing Canadians on fixed or limited incomes.

One in five Canadians is now aged 65 or older, and that share is projected to approach one in four by 2040. As Canada’s demographics continue to shift, addressing gaps in health care, housing and community supports must be part of any long-term strategy for economic growth and prosperity.

The proposed changes to the Canada Caregiver Credit would make it fully refundable, providing up to $1,260 for eligible caregivers and benefiting approximately 585,000 people.

“We’re particularly pleased to see this change and government action to provide caregivers with needed financial supports, which Federal Retirees has advocated for,” said Anthony Pizzino, CEO of Federal Retirees. “Strengthening Canada’s economy and supporting an aging population aren’t competing priorities. We expect the government to recognize that connection in its decisions and ensure older Canadians aren’t left behind.”

Federal Retirees is carefully reviewing the 2026 federal budget to determine the full scope of its impacts on aging Canadians. Watch for a closer look at Budget 2026 in the coming days, including what it means for our members and advocacy priorities.