The Ontario Child Benefit is one of the most significant sources of financial assistance for low- to moderate-income families across the province. If you’re raising children under the age of 18, this monthly, tax-free benefit can help ease the burden of rising living costs. With the next Ontario Child Benefit payment scheduled for June 20, 2025, now is the time to understand what this program offers, how much you could receive, and how to ensure you qualify.
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This comprehensive 2025 guide explains everything you need to know about the Ontario Child Benefit, including eligibility criteria, payment dates, benefit amounts, how to apply, and how it complements the federal Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
What is the Ontario Child Benefit?
The Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) is a monthly financial support program provided by the Government of Ontario. It is designed to help low- and moderate-income families with the cost of raising children under the age of 18.
Unlike some other provincial programs, the OCB is delivered through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in conjunction with the Canada Child Benefit, meaning there is no separate application process for Ontario families. If you apply for the federal CCB and live in Ontario, you are automatically assessed for the OCB.
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Ontario Child Benefit 2025 Payment Dates
The Ontario Child Benefit is paid on the same schedule as the Canada Child Benefit, typically on the 20th of each month or the closest business day. Below are the 2025 Ontario Child Benefit payment dates:
- January 19, 2025
- February 20, 2025
- March 20, 2025
- April 19, 2025
- May 17, 2025
- June 20, 2025 (next upcoming payment)
- July 19, 2025
- August 20, 2025
- September 20, 2025
- October 18, 2025
- November 20, 2025
- December 13, 2025
Payments are made via direct deposit or cheque, depending on your CRA My Account preferences.
How Much Can You Get from the Ontario Child Benefit in 2025?
For the benefit year July 2024 to June 2025, eligible families can receive up to:
- $1,607 per child annually
- Which works out to approximately $133.91 per month per child
This amount may change starting in July 2025, when the government reviews the benefit based on Ontario’s cost of living and inflation through the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
The benefit is income-tested:
As your family’s net income increases, your Ontario Child Benefit amount gradually decreases until it phases out completely.
Who Qualifies for the Ontario Child Benefit in 2025?
To receive the Ontario Child Benefit, you must meet the following conditions:
- Live in Ontario
- Be the primary caregiver for a child under 18
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Have you filed your 2024 income tax return
- Meet the low-to-moderate-income thresholds determined by the CRA
Your 2024 tax return is what determines your eligibility for payments starting in July 2025 and continuing through June 2026.
Note: You must file your taxes even if you had no income in 2024. Your spouse or common-law partner must also file to be eligible.
How to Apply for the Ontario Child Benefit
You do not need to apply separately for the OCB. Simply follow these steps:
- Apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) through the CRA My Account
- File your 2024 income tax return
- Ensure your spouse or partner also files, if applicable
If you are eligible for the CCB and live in Ontario, you will automatically be considered for the OCB.
What If My Family or Income Changes in 2025?
The CRA calculates your benefit annually based on your previous year’s tax return. If your family income, marital status, or number of children changes, notify the CRA as soon as possible to avoid overpayments or delays.
You can update your personal or family information via:
- CRA My Account
- The Canada Child Benefit hotline
How the Ontario Child Benefit Works with the Canada Child Benefit
A common question from parents is whether the Ontario Child Benefit replaces the Canada Child Benefit. The answer is: No.
These are two separate programs that work together:
| Program | Level | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Federal | Supports Canadian families with children |
| Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) | Provincial | Provides extra help to Ontario families |
The total amount you receive each month may include both benefits in a single combined payment from the CRA.
Key Takeaways: Ontario Child Benefit 2025
- Next payment date: June 20, 2025
- Maximum annual benefit: $1,607 per child
- Based on: 2024 income tax return
- Eligibility: Must live in Ontario and be the primary caregiver of a child under 18
- No separate application needed — Apply for the Canada Child Benefit to be considered
- Keep your CRA My Account info updated for smooth payments
Final Thoughts
The Ontario Child Benefit offers vital monthly support to Ontario families navigating the high cost of raising children. Whether you’re managing daycare, groceries, or school expenses, this benefit can make a meaningful difference.
To ensure you receive your June 2025 Ontario Child Benefit payment, make sure you’ve filed your 2024 taxes, confirmed your eligibility, and checked your CRA My Account settings for direct deposit or address accuracy.
Don’t leave money on the table—if you qualify, the Ontario Child Benefit is one of the best tools available to support your family’s financial well-being.