Karen Minn
July 2025 kicks off a new benefit year for Ontario residents, and with it comes increased Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) payments. As everyday costs continue to rise, this tax-free monthly payment can help eligible individuals and families offset expenses like rent, property taxes, and energy bills.
Whether you’ve received OTB before or may qualify for the first time, now is the time to check your eligibility and understand the new payment structure.
What Is the Ontario Trillium Benefit?
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a monthly, tax-free payment designed to support lower- and middle-income Ontarians with the rising cost of living. It combines three government credits into one simplified payment:
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
If you’re eligible for one or more of these credits, you’ll receive the combined amount as part of your OTB. The payments are issued by the CRA but funded by the Government of Ontario.
July marks the beginning of a new benefit year, and your eligibility and payment amount now depend on your 2024 tax return.
Who Qualifies for the Ontario Trillium Benefit?
To qualify for the OTB in 2025, you must:
- Be a resident of Ontario
- Be at least 18 years old, or have a spouse/common-law partner, or be a parent
- Have filed your 2024 income tax return
- Meet eligibility for one or more of the three credits
Additional requirements for OEPTC:
- Paid rent or property tax in 2024
- Paid energy costs while living on a reserve
- Lived in a long-term care home or a college/university residence
For NOEC, you must live in a designated Northern Ontario district and meet similar energy/rent payment requirements.
Both you and your spouse (if applicable) must file your tax returns to be considered.
How Much Can You Receive?
The total amount you receive depends on your income, age, family status, and eligibility for each credit. Here are the maximum amounts for 2025:
| Credit | Maximum Annual Amount |
|---|---|
| Ontario Sales Tax Credit | Up to $371 per person |
| Energy & Property Tax Credit | Up to $1,283 (ages 18–64) or $1,461 (65+) |
| Northern Ontario Energy Credit | Up to $185 (single) or $285 (families/parents) |
Monthly Examples:
- Single individual eligible for all credits: up to $168.08/month
- Family of four: up to $269.16/month
If your total benefit is $360 or less, you’ll receive it as a lump-sum payment in July. If you prefer, you can also opt to receive your full benefit as a single payment at the end of the benefit year in June 2026.
When Will You Get Paid?
OTB payments are issued on the 10th of each month. If the 10th falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are made on the preceding business day.
OTB Payment Schedule for 2025–2026:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| July 2025 | Thursday, July 10 |
| August 2025 | Friday, August 8 |
| September 2025 | Wednesday, Sept 10 |
| October 2025 | Friday, Oct 10 |
| November 2025 | Monday, Nov 10 |
| December 2025 | Wednesday, Dec 10 |
| …through | June 2026 |
If your benefit is below $360 or you opted for a lump sum, your full payment will be sent this July or in June 2026, depending on your choice.
How to Apply for the Ontario Trillium Benefit
To receive the OTB:
- File your 2024 tax return, even if you had no income.
- Complete Form ON-BEN (included in the Ontario tax package) if you’re applying for the OEPTC or NOEC.
- No separate application is required for the OSTC; eligibility is assessed automatically.
If you’re turning 18 during the benefit year (before June 1, 2026), you can still apply. Payments will begin the month after your 18th birthday if eligible.
Is the Ontario Trillium Benefit Taxable?
No. OTB payments are not considered taxable income. They do not affect your tax return, refund amount, or eligibility for other income-tested government programs. You do not need to report the benefit on your tax return.
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a valuable source of support for Ontario households, especially with the increased payments starting in July 2025.
Whether you’re already receiving it or may be eligible for the first time, ensure you’ve filed your 2024 taxes, checked your status, and made the right payment choice.
With monthly payments that can add up to hundreds of dollars a year, now’s the time to act and ease the pressure of daily living costs.
FAQs
What if I qualify for all three credits but my benefit is less than $360?
You’ll receive the full amount as a one-time payment in July 2025.
Can I choose to receive my benefit annually instead of monthly?
Yes. You can opt to receive your full benefit as a lump sum in June 2026 by selecting this option on your tax return.
What happens if I file my taxes late?
Late filing delays your OTB payments. Your first payment will arrive 4–8 weeks after your tax return is assessed, and monthly payments will begin thereafter.