Raising a family in Ontario can be challenging, especially with the high costs of housing, daycare, and other essentials. Thankfully, the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) offers crucial financial support to help families provide for their children. This non-taxable monthly payment supports approximately one million children in over 500,000 families each year.
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Here’s everything you need to know about the Ontario Child Benefit 2025, including how to qualify, how much you can receive, and tips to increase your payments.
What is the Ontario Child Benefit?
The Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) is a tax-free monthly payment designed to assist low- to moderate-income families with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age. Importantly, the benefit is available regardless of whether parents are employed.
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Who is Eligible for the Ontario Child Benefit?
To qualify for the Ontario Child Benefit 2025, you must meet these requirements:
- Be an Ontario resident.
- Be the primary caregiver of a child under 18 years old.
- Be eligible for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
- Have filed your previous year’s tax return (your spouse or common-law partner must also file if applicable).
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How to Apply for the Ontario Child Benefit
There are two main ways to apply for the Ontario Child Benefit:
- Newborn Registration Service: If you’ve just welcomed a newborn, you can apply while registering your child’s birth through Ontario’s online service.
- Canada Revenue Agency (CRA): If you’re not registering a newborn, you can apply online using the CRA’s My Account for Individuals or by completing the relevant form.
Important: If you’ve already applied through Ontario’s newborn registration service, there’s no need to reapply through the CRA. Doing so may delay your application.
You only need to apply once for each child under 18 years old.
How Much Can You Receive from the Ontario Child Benefit?
For the July 2024 to June 2025 benefit year, families can receive up to $140 per month per child (or $1,680 annually).
You may still qualify for a partial benefit if your adjusted family net income exceeds $25,646.
How Does the Ontario Child Benefit Work with the Canada Child Benefit?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to families raising children under 18. To qualify for the Ontario Child Benefit, you must first meet the eligibility criteria for the CCB.
For the 2024-25 benefit year, CCB payments provide up to:
- $7,787 annually per child under six years of age.
- $6,570 annually per child aged six to 17.
The total benefit amount depends on:
- The number of children in your care.
- The age of your children.
- Your marital status.
- Your adjusted family net income from the previous year.
How is the Ontario Child Benefit Paid Out?
Once you’re approved for both the CCB and OCB, you’ll receive these payments as a single monthly deposit. Payments are sent directly to your bank account around the 20th of each month.
Your first payment should arrive within:
- Eight weeks if you apply online.
- Up to 11 weeks if you apply by mail.
Pro Tip: Ensure you file your taxes on time each year to avoid disruptions in your payments.
How to Increase Your Ontario Child Benefit Payments
The amount you receive from the Ontario Child Benefit depends on your adjusted family net income. Here are a few strategies to increase your payments:
- Reduce Your Taxable Income: Lowering your taxable income can increase your benefit amount.
- Claim childcare expenses as a tax deduction.
- Utilize tax credits like adoption expenses, medical expenses, education fees, and donations.
- Maximize Tax Deductions: Work with a tax professional to ensure you’re claiming all eligible deductions and credits.
- File Taxes on Time: Late tax filings can delay your payments.
Can You Get a Loan While Receiving the Ontario Child Benefit?
Yes, you can apply for loans while receiving the Ontario Child Benefit. OCB payments are considered a source of income, which can improve your chances of loan approval. However, ensure you borrow responsibly and explore financial alternatives if possible.
The Ontario Child Benefit 2025 is a valuable resource for families, providing critical financial support to help raise children. By understanding eligibility requirements, maximizing your benefits, and filing your taxes on time, you can make the most of this program.
Don’t wait—apply today to take full advantage of the Ontario Child Benefit!