Ontario families, mark your calendars: the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) payment is scheduled to be deposited on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, following the Victoria Day long weekend. This monthly benefit provides crucial financial support to low- to moderate-income families with children under 18. Here’s what you need to know about eligibility, payment amounts, and how to ensure you receive your benefit on time.
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What is the Ontario Child Benefit?
The OCB is a tax-free monthly payment designed to help families with the cost of raising children. It is administered by the Ontario government and works in conjunction with the federal Canada Child Benefit (CCB). The amount you receive is based on your family’s net income and the number of children under 18 in your care.
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Payment Date: May 20, 2025
Due to the Victoria Day holiday on Monday, May 19, 2025, the OCB payment will be issued on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Payments are typically made on the 20th of each month, but when this date falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is moved to the next business day.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Ontario Child Benefit, you must:
- Be a resident of Ontario.
- Be the primary caregiver of one or more children under 18.
- Have filed your income tax return for the previous year.
- Be eligible for the federal Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
Eligibility is automatically assessed when you apply for the CCB through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). No separate application is required for the OCB.
Payment Amounts
For the 2025 benefit year, families can receive up to $1,680 per child annually, which equates to $140 per month per child. The exact amount depends on your family’s net income and the number of eligible children.
For example, a family with two children could receive up to $280 per month if they meet the income criteria.
How to Ensure You Receive Your Payment
- Direct Deposit: Ensure your banking information is up to date with the CRA to receive payments directly into your account.
- Mail: If you receive payments by cheque, allow additional time for mail delivery, especially around holidays.
If you do not receive your payment by May 27, 2025, contact the CRA at 1-800-387-1193 or visit canada.ca for assistance.
Additional Support: One-Time $200 Rebate
In addition to the regular OCB payments, the Ontario government announced a one-time $200 taxpayer rebate for each eligible child under 18. To qualify, families must have received the Canada Child Benefit for 2024 and filed their 2023 income tax return by December 31, 2024. Cheques are expected to be issued in early 2025.
Stay Informed
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on the Ontario Child Benefit, visit the official Ontario government website: ontario.ca/ontario-child-benefit.
Remember, staying informed ensures you receive the benefits you’re entitled to and can help you plan your family’s finances effectively.