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2026 payroll calendar
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Payroll and Holiday Closures Calendar
ADP Canada’s payroll calendar is a valuable resource for monitoring pay periods and holiday closures. It outlines the week numbers for processing, and details both federal and provincial Canadian holidays so you can plan your payroll effectively — whether you operate on a weekly, biweekly or semimonthly payment schedule.
Download the Payroll and Holiday Closures Calendar
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How many pay periods are there in a year?
There can be as many as 53 pay periods in a year or as few as 12. The frequency is determined by the employer unless the workplace or employees are in a province or territory that has specific payday requirements. It is important for business owners to strike a balance between the cost of running payroll and the financial needs of their staff.
There are four types of pay periods a business can use to pay employees:
- Weekly: 52 pay periods each year
- Biweekly: 26 pay periods each year
- Semimonthly: 24 pay periods each year
- Monthly: 12 pay periods each year
How many weekly pay periods are there in a year?
Weekly pay leads to 52 pay periods each year and is often used by companies that have hourly employees.
Learn more about weekly pay and its benefits to employers and employees.
How many biweekly pay periods are there in a year?
There are 26 pay periods in a year on a biweekly schedule; however, in certain years, there can be 27 pay periods, which may lead to higher payroll expenses.
Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of biweekly pay.
How many semimonthly pay periods are there in a year?
Employers opting for a semimonthly pay schedule can choose to pay their employees either on the 1st and 15th of the month or on the 16th and last day of the month. The final decision on the pay date rests with the employer unless the workplace or employees are in a province or territory with specific payday regulations. This pay structure results in 24 pay periods annually and is typically associated with salaried employees.
This resource offers practical information concerning the subject matter and is provided with the understanding that ADP Canada is not rendering legal or tax advice or other professional services.
