Every year, many Canadians receive a notice from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) regarding benefits and credits. If you’ve recently received an OTB Notice CRA 2025, you might be wondering what it means, whether you need to take action, and how it impacts your payments.
Table of Contents
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB), the notice from CRA, and how it affects your financial planning for 2025.
What is the OTB Notice CRA 2025?
The OTB notice CRA 2025 refers to the Ontario Trillium Benefit notice issued by the Canada Revenue Agency for the 2025 benefit year. This notice provides details on:
- Your eligibility for the benefit
- The total amount you will receive
- The monthly payment schedule
- Any changes or adjustments to your entitlement
The notice is typically sent after you file your 2024 income tax return, as the CRA uses your tax return to determine eligibility for provincial benefit programs like the OTB.
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What is the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)?
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a provincial payment program that combines three credits into one monthly or lump sum payment:
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
These credits are designed to help low- to moderate-income individuals and families in Ontario with:
- The cost of energy
- Property taxes
- Sales taxes
Who is Eligible for the OTB in 2025?
You may be eligible for the OTB if you:
- Were a resident of Ontario on December 31, 2024
- Filed your 2024 income tax return
- Met at least one of the following conditions:
- You paid rent or property tax in Ontario
- You lived in a designated Northern Ontario area and paid energy costs
- You had a low to moderate income
Even if you have no income to report, you must file a tax return to be considered for the benefit.
What’s Included in the OTB Notice CRA Sends Out?
The OTB notice CRA 2025 will usually include the following information:
- Approval or Denial Status: Whether you’re eligible for one or more components of the OTB
- Amount: The estimated annual amount you’ll receive
- Payment Frequency: Monthly (July 2025–June 2026) or one lump sum in July 2025, depending on the amount and your selection
- Payment Schedule: Exact dates for your monthly payments
- Changes or Adjustments: If your income, family status, or housing situation has changed, your benefits may be recalculated
When Will You Receive OTB Payments in 2025?
OTB payments for the 2025–2026 benefit year begin in July 2025, based on your 2024 tax return. If you qualify for monthly payments, they’ll be issued around the 10th of each month, starting:
- First monthly payment: July 10, 2025
- Subsequent payments: Around the 10th of each month through June 2026
If your total benefit is less than $360, you may receive it as a lump sum in July.
What to Do If You Received an OTB Notice from CRA
If you’ve received an OTB notice from CRA, here’s what to do next:
- Review the Details
Ensure your income, marital status, and housing situation are correctly reported. - Check the Payment Schedule
Mark your calendar so you know when to expect payments. - Update CRA if Necessary
If you’ve moved, changed your marital status, or your income has significantly changed, update your information via your CRA My Account or by contacting CRA. - Keep It for Your Records
This notice is an official government document. Save a copy in case of future audits or benefit reviews.
What If You Didn’t Receive a Notice?
If you haven’t received your OTB notice CRA 2025 by early July, consider the following steps:
- Confirm that you filed your 2024 income tax return
- Log in to your CRA My Account to check for electronic notices
- Contact the CRA directly at 1-800-959-8281
Is the OTB Taxable?
No, Ontario Trillium Benefit payments are not taxable. They do not need to be reported as income on your tax return.
Conclusion
The OTB notice CRA 2025 is your official confirmation of eligibility and payment details for the Ontario Trillium Benefit in the upcoming benefit year. Whether you’re receiving support for energy costs, property taxes, or sales tax relief, the OTB plays a key role in helping Ontario residents with rising living expenses.
Be sure to read your notice carefully, understand what you’re entitled to, and stay on top of important dates. If you haven’t yet filed your 2024 tax return, it’s not too late to apply and potentially receive retroactive payments.