The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a tax-free payment designed to assist Ontario residents with moderate incomes in managing annual expenses. This program combines several provincial tax credits into one seamless payment administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). If you qualify, you could receive financial support to offset costs like property taxes, energy expenses, and more. Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, payment schedules, and the benefits you might receive in 2025.
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2025 OTB Payment Dates
Although OTB payments are issued by the CRA on behalf of the Ontario government, they appear in your bank account under the label “Canada Pro Deposit.” These payments are made monthly, typically on the 10th of the month, unless that day is a weekend or statutory holiday.
2025 OTB Payment Schedule
Month | Payment Date |
---|---|
January | January 10 |
February | February 10 |
March | March 10 |
April | April 10 |
May | May 9 |
June | June 10 |
July | July 10 |
August | August 8 |
September | September 10 |
October | October 10 |
November | November 10 |
December | December 10 |
For those not using direct deposit, cheques are mailed out on the same schedule, but delivery may take up to 10 business days.
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Choosing Lump Sum or Monthly Payments
If your total OTB entitlement exceeds $360, you can opt for monthly payments or a single lump-sum payment in June 2025. If your annual entitlement is under $360, you will receive a one-time payment. For entitlements between $2 and $10, the minimum payment is adjusted to $10.
How the Ontario Trillium Benefit Works
The OTB consolidates three key tax credits:
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
To qualify, you must file your annual income tax return and complete the ON-BEN application form each tax year. The CRA determines eligibility and payment amounts based on these filings.
1. Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
This credit assists with property taxes and energy costs. To qualify, you must:
- Be an Ontario resident as of December 31, 2023.
- Meet at least one of the following:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Be a parent living with your child.
- Be married, in a common-law relationship, or previously married/common-law.
Additional 2023 requirements:
- Paid property taxes or rent on your primary residence.
- Paid home energy costs while living on a reserve.
- Covered accommodation costs in a public long-term care home.
2. Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
Designed for Northern Ontario residents, this credit offsets higher energy costs in the region. Eligibility criteria include:
- Ontario residency as of December 31, 2023.
- Living in a qualifying Northern Ontario area (e.g., Algoma, Cochrane, Kenora, Thunder Bay).
- Meeting one of the following conditions:
- Paid rent or property taxes on your primary residence.
- Paid for home energy costs on a reserve.
- Covered accommodation costs in a public long-term care home.
3. Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
This credit offsets sales tax costs. To qualify, you must:
- Be an Ontario resident as of December 31, 2023.
- Be 18 years or older, a parent, or married/common-law.
Maximum OTB Credit Amounts
The maximum amounts you may receive depend on your specific circumstances and the type of credit.
Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
Category | Maximum Amount |
Single Person | $180 |
Family | $277 |
Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
Category | Maximum Amount |
Ages 18-64 | $1,248 |
Age 65 or older | $1,421 |
Living on a reserve/care home | $277 |
In a school residence | $25 |
Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
Category | Maximum Amount |
Individual | $360 |
Spouse/Common-law partner | $360 |
Dependent child (under 19) | $360 |
Inflation Adjustments for 2025
The OTB payment amounts for the benefit year (July 2024 – June 2025) reflect recent inflation adjustments. Any further increases will apply to the July 2025 – June 2026 benefit year.
Final Thoughts
The Ontario Trillium Benefit provides much-needed financial relief for Ontario residents with moderate incomes. By consolidating key credits, it helps cover energy costs, property taxes, and sales taxes. Ensure you file your income tax return and ON-BEN application to access these benefits in 2025. If you’re eligible, the OTB can ease financial burdens and support your household budget.
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