The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a financial relief program provided by the Province of Ontario and managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). This benefit is designed to assist low- and middle-income residents by covering energy costs, property taxes, and sales tax expenditures. It comprises three main components: the Northern Ontario Energy Credit, the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, and the Ontario Sales Tax Credit.
If you want to learn about the upcoming $172 to $265 payment under this program, including eligibility details, payment amounts, and schedules, keep reading.
What is the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)?
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a tax credit provided to eligible Ontario residents. Its purpose is to help offset essential living costs, such as energy expenses and property taxes. Instead of receiving a lump sum, recipients receive monthly payments, which are determined by dividing the total annual entitlement by twelve.
OTB payments for 2025 will be based on 2024 tax filings and will be disbursed monthly from July 2025 to June 2026. The payments will appear in your bank account under “Canada PRO Deposit.”
Components of the OTB:
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC) – Assists residents in northern Ontario with energy costs.
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC) – Helps cover property taxes and energy bills.
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC) – Provides relief for sales tax expenses.
Who is Eligible for the Ontario Trillium Benefit?
Eligibility criteria vary based on the type of credit. However, some general conditions apply to all three components:
- Must be a resident of Ontario
- Must have filed an income tax return for the relevant year
- Must have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Below is a detailed breakdown of specific eligibility conditions for each credit.
Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC) Eligibility
This tax-free credit assists low- and middle-income individuals and families in northern Ontario with their energy costs. Residents of the following regions may qualify:
- Algoma
- Cochrane
- Kenora
- Manitoulin
- Nipissing
- Parry Sound
- Rainy River
- Sudbury
- Thunder Bay
- Timiskaming
Additional NOEC Requirements:
- Must be an Ontario resident as of December 31, 2023
- Must have paid energy costs while living in a long-term care facility or on a reserve
- Must have paid property taxes or rent in Ontario
Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC) Eligibility
This credit is meant for individuals and families who struggle with energy costs and property taxes.
OEPTC Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years old, married, or a parent
- Must be a resident of Northern Ontario
- Must have paid property taxes or energy costs
Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC) Eligibility
This credit helps offset some of the sales tax paid by Ontario residents.
OSTC Requirements:
- Must be at least 19 years old
- Must be married, in a common-law relationship, or a parent
How Much Can You Receive?
Below is a breakdown of maximum benefits for each credit.
| Credit Type | Maximum Amount |
|---|---|
| Northern Ontario Energy Credit | $180 for singles, $277 for families |
| Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit | $1,248 (18+ years old), $1,421 (65+ years old) |
| Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (Long-term care/reserve) | $277 |
| Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (Post-secondary/private school residence) | $25 |
| Ontario Sales Tax Credit | $360 per person (including dependent children) |
OTB Payment Schedule for 2025
The CRA issues OTB payments under the “Canada PRO Deposit” label. Below is the expected payment schedule for 2025:
| Payment Month | Payment Date |
| January | March 10, 2025 |
| February | February 10, 2025 |
| March | March 10, 2025 |
| April | April 10, 2025 |
| May | May 9, 2025 |
| June | June 10, 2025 |
| July | July 10, 2025 |
| August | August 8, 2025 |
| September | September 10, 2025 |
| October | October 10, 2025 |
| November | November 10, 2025 |
| December | December 10, 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I apply for the Ontario Trillium Benefit?
You don’t need to apply separately. Simply file your Ontario tax return and complete the ON-BEN application.
2. Can I receive all three credits?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for each credit, you can receive all three components of the Ontario Trillium Benefit.
3. How do I know if I qualify for the 2025 OTB?
Your eligibility will be determined based on your 2024 tax return. Ensure you file your taxes on time and meet the requirements for the credit you’re applying for.
4. When will I receive my OTB payments?
Payments are made on the 10th of each month, except in May and August when they are issued on the 9th and 8th, respectively.
5. What should I do if I haven’t received my payment?
If your payment is delayed, check your CRA account or contact the CRA directly for assistance.
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a valuable financial aid program for eligible residents, helping cover essential costs like energy bills and property taxes. Make sure you file your 2024 tax return to benefit from the upcoming payments in 2025.
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