As July kicks off, so does a brand-new benefit year for government payments in Ontario — and with the rising cost of living, now’s the perfect time to find out whether you’re eligible for extra financial support. One of the most impactful benefits for lower- and middle-income Ontarians is the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) — and your 2025 payments could look different than last year’s.
Whether you’re facing steep energy bills, higher rent, or just trying to keep up with everyday expenses, the OTB could give your budget a much-needed boost. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works this year.
Table of Contents
What Is the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)?
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a monthly, tax-free payment that helps Ontarians manage essential living costs such as:
- Sales tax on everyday purchases
- Energy expenses
- Property taxes
Funded by the Ontario government but administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the OTB consolidates three separate tax credits into a single payment:
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
Eligibility and payment amounts are now based on your 2024 tax return, so if your income or situation changed in the past year, your benefit amount might too.
Who Is Eligible for the Ontario Trillium Benefit in 2025?
To qualify for the OTB, you must:
- Be a resident of Ontario
- Have filed your 2024 income tax return
- Meet the requirements for at least one of the three credits
Basic Eligibility
You must also be at least 18 years old, or meet one of the following conditions:
- Have (or have had) a spouse or common-law partner
- Be (or have been) a parent who lives with your child
Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
- Requires only basic eligibility
- Must be at least 19 years old
Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
To qualify, you must have in 2024:
- Paid property tax or rent for your principal residence (with landlord responsible for property tax), or
- Paid energy costs while living on a reserve, or
- Lived in a long-term care home or student residence and paid accommodation costs
Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
If you live in Northern Ontario (e.g., Sudbury, Thunder Bay, Kenora), you may qualify if in 2024 you:
- Paid property tax or rent for your main residence, or
- Paid home energy costs on a reserve, or
- Paid accommodation costs in a non-profit or public long-term care home
Important: If you’re in a relationship, both you and your spouse/partner must file your 2024 tax returns to receive the OTB. The benefit is calculated based on your combined family income.
How Much Can You Get from the Ontario Trillium Benefit?
The amount you receive depends on your household income, age, family size, and location.
Maximum OTB Amounts for 2025
- OSTC: Up to $371 per household member
Phases out if your income exceeds:- $28,506 (single)
- $35,632 (couples/single parents)
- OEPTC:
- Up to $1,283 (ages 18–64)
- Up to $1,461 (ages 65+)
Phases out at: - $28,506 (single)
- $35,632 (couples or single parents)
- $42,758 (senior families)
- NOEC:
- Up to $185 (single, no children)
- Up to $285 (couples or single parents)
Phases out at: - $49,885 (single)
- $64,138 (families)
Monthly vs. Lump-Sum Payments
- Most recipients get their OTB in monthly instalments (split evenly over 12 months).
- If your total entitlement is $360 or less, you’ll receive it as a one-time lump sum in July.
- You can also choose to receive the full amount annually (in June 2026), though you’ll have to wait the entire benefit year.
For an estimate tailored to your circumstances, use the CRA’s benefits calculator or log into your CRA My Account.
How to Apply for the Ontario Trillium Benefit
Step 1: File Your Taxes
To receive OTB payments, you must:
- File your 2024 income tax return
- Ensure your spouse or common-law partner files as well, if applicable
Step 2: Complete the Required Forms
- For the OSTC, no extra forms are needed.
- To apply for the OEPTC and NOEC, complete Form ON-BEN as part of your tax return. Most tax software includes this automatically.
Once processed, the CRA will send you a notice of determination confirming how much you’ll receive.
If you turn 18 before June 1, 2026, you can still qualify — your payments will start the month after your birthday.
Are OTB Payments Taxable?
No. The Ontario Trillium Benefit is not taxable income.
You do not need to report it on your tax return, and it won’t affect your tax refund or how much you owe.
Ontario Trillium Benefit Payment Schedule for 2025
OTB payments are made on the 10th of each month (or the previous business day if the 10th falls on a weekend or holiday).
2025 OTB Payment Dates:
- Thursday, July 10
- Friday, August 8
- Wednesday, September 10
- Friday, October 10
- Monday, November 10
- Wednesday, December 10
If your annual benefit is below $360, expect a one-time payment this month. If you opted for an annual lump sum and your benefit is over $360, you’ll receive it in June 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Ontario Trillium Benefit can be a valuable support for Ontarians managing higher living costs in 2025. Whether you qualify for one credit or all three, every dollar counts — and with the CRA handling payments automatically after you file your taxes, it’s one of the easiest ways to access government support.