Starting November 1, 2026, Alberta stays on Alberta Time (UTC-6) year-round. That means no more changing clocks twice a year, but it can cause unexpected problems with Microsoft Outlook calendars and scheduled meetings.
Here’s what you need to know, and a few simple steps to make sure your business is ready.
What’s changing?
Beginning November 1, Alberta will remain on Alberta Time (UTC-6) permanently. We won’t turn our clocks back an hour this fall, and we won’t change them again next spring. Alberta will now match Saskatchewan year-round.
For most of us, that’s welcome news.
However, computers, phones and calendar apps have been programmed to expect these seasonal changes. Without the proper updates, some devices and applications will keep following the old rules.
The result? A meeting scheduled for 9:00 AM might suddenly appear at 10:00 AM on someone’s calendar.
Microsoft Outlook may need some attention
Microsoft has added Alberta’s new time zone to Windows in its October 2026 security update. Installing that update is only part of the solution.
Existing Outlook appointments, especially recurring meetings, may still be tied to the old time zone. Meetings scheduled after November 1 can then appear an hour earlier or later than intended.
You might also notice a meeting showing the correct time in Outlook on the web but a different time on your computer or phone.
This can be particularly disruptive for businesses coordinating appointments with clients, vendors, and employees in different locations.
What should you do before November 1?
There are four things worth checking.
1. Make sure your computer is up to date
Install the latest Windows updates, including the October 2026 security update. Then check your time zone under Settings > Time & language > Date & time.
It should be set to: (UTC-06:00) Mountain Time (Alberta)
If you don’t see this option, your computer probably still needs the update.
2. Check your Outlook calendar settings
Even with the correct time zone in Windows, Outlook may need to be updated separately.
In New Outlook or Outlook on the web:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Calendar > View.
- Find the Time zones section.
- Select (UTC-06:00) Mountain Time (Alberta).
- Save your changes.
In Classic Outlook, the setting is under File > Options > Calendar > Time zones.
3. Update your phone
iPhones and Android phones get time zone changes through their operating system updates. Install the latest update and confirm your phone is set to update its time zone automatically, so the Outlook mobile app shows the same times as your computer.
4. Review your upcoming meetings
This is probably the most important step.
Once your Microsoft 365 account, Outlook on the web and Outlook desktop are all updated, take a few minutes to review meetings scheduled after November 1. Pay particular attention to recurring appointments such as weekly team meetings, client check-ins and other regular bookings.
If something looks wrong:
- Check the time zone on that specific event.
- Edit the whole series for recurring meetings, not just a single occurrence.
- Remember only the organizer can fix it. For meetings with other people, the organizer needs to make the correction and send an updated invitation.
One caution: changing the time zone on a recurring series can reset any individually modified occurrences. Review those changes carefully.
What if your calendar is already showing the wrong time?
If meetings appear an hour off, especially when comparing Outlook on your computer, phone and web browser, don’t assume the meeting has been moved.
More likely, one application is using Alberta’s new time zone while another is still following the old rules. Check that your devices and apps are updated, confirm their time zone settings, and verify the meeting’s intended time before changing anything.
A small change that could create some confusion
For most businesses, the transition should be straightforward. Organizations with several employees, shared calendars, recurring meetings or remote staff may see some confusion while different systems catch up.
A little time spent checking settings now can save missed appointments and scheduling headaches in November.
Frequently asked questions
When does Alberta’s time zone change take effect?
November 1, 2026. Clocks will not fall back, and Alberta stays on UTC-6 year-round from then on.
What should my Windows time zone be set to?
(UTC-06:00) Mountain Time (Alberta). It’s added by Microsoft’s October 2026 Windows security update.
Why is one meeting showing an hour off?
Usually one device or app hasn’t been updated yet, or the meeting was created under the old time zone. Update your devices first, then have the meeting organizer correct the series.
Need a hand?
At SureFire IT Solutions, we help Edmonton-area businesses keep their technology working reliably so their teams can focus on their work.
If you’re unsure whether your computers or Microsoft 365 environment are ready for Alberta’s time zone change, our team can help. Contact SureFire IT Solutions or call 780.490.6705.