The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a non-taxable payment that helps low- and moderate-income households in Ontario manage essential living expenses. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the OTB combines three provincial tax credits into one monthly benefit:
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC): Helps with property taxes, rent, or energy costs, including support for residents of reserves and long-term care facilities.
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC): Supports residents of Northern Ontario facing higher energy expenses.
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC): Provides relief from sales tax costs for individuals and families.
By bundling these credits into a single monthly payment, the OTB ensures Ontarians receive consistent financial support throughout the year.
Ontario Trillium Benefit Payment Dates 2025–2026
The next OTB payment is confirmed for Wednesday, September 10, 2025. Payments continue monthly until June 2026, unless you qualified for a lump sum.
Here is the full payment schedule:
- September 10, 2025
- October 10, 2025
- November 10, 2025
- December 10, 2025
- January 9, 2026
- February 10, 2026
- March 10, 2026
- April 10, 2026
- May 8, 2026
- June 10, 2026
Important: If your total OTB entitlement for the year is $360 or less, you would have already received a one-time lump sum payment in July 2025.
Who is Eligible for the OTB in 2025?
Eligibility depends on both general residency requirements and specific rules for each credit.
General eligibility:
- You must be a resident of Ontario.
- You must have filed your 2024 tax return.
Specific eligibility by credit:
- OSTC: You must be at least 19 years old, a parent living with a child, or married/common-law.
- OEPTC: You must have paid property taxes, rent, or energy costs in Ontario in 2024.
- NOEC: You must live in Northern Ontario, be 18 or older (or married/a parent), and have paid property taxes or energy costs.
How Much Can You Receive From the OTB in 2025?
The amount you receive depends on your income, household size, and eligibility for each credit. Maximum annual amounts for 2025 include:
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC): Up to $185 for singles, $285 for families.
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC): Up to $1,283 for individuals aged 18–64, $1,461 for seniors, and $285 for residents of reserves or long-term care facilities. Students may receive up to $25.
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC): Up to $371 per adult or child.
In total, some households could receive over $2,000 annually.
How to Apply for the Ontario Trillium Benefit
The OTB does not require a separate application. To ensure you receive your payments:
- File your tax return on time. The CRA uses your return to calculate eligibility and amounts.
- Keep your information up to date. Update your address, marital status, or banking details in CRA My Account.
- Report all eligible expenses. Include rent, property tax, or energy costs on your tax return.
- Sign up for direct deposit. It ensures faster and more secure payments.
What If You Don’t Receive Your OTB Payment on September 10?
If your payment does not arrive on the scheduled date:
- Log in to your CRA My Account to confirm payment status.
- Check that your banking information is correct.
- Contact the CRA at 1-800-959-8281 if you suspect an issue.
Is the Ontario Trillium Benefit Taxable?
No, OTB payments are non-taxable. You do not need to report them as income on your tax return.
Why the OTB Matters in 2025
With rising costs of housing, groceries, and energy, the Ontario Trillium Benefit plays a vital role in easing financial pressures for residents across the province. From families to seniors, students, and Northern Ontario households, the OTB ensures more money stays in your pocket.
Mark your calendar for September 10, 2025, and plan ahead for the upcoming payment cycle through June 2026.