The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a key program for Ontario residents, combining three credits into one monthly payment to help with energy costs, property taxes, and sales tax. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) on behalf of the Ontario government, the OTB provides vital financial relief to eligible individuals and families.
In 2025, the OTB continues to include the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC), the Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC), and the Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC). This article explains the eligibility requirements, maximum payment amounts, and updated payment schedule for 2025.
What Is the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)?
The OTB combines three separate Ontario credits into one easy-to-manage monthly payment:
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC) – Helps low- to moderate-income individuals with property taxes and sales tax on energy.
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC) – Provides additional relief to residents living in Northern Ontario.
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC) – Offers a refundable tax credit to offset sales tax for lower-income Ontarians.
Instead of receiving these credits separately, residents now receive them together as the OTB.
Who Qualifies for the OTB in 2025?
You may be eligible for the OTB if you are a resident of Ontario and at least one of the following applies:
- You paid rent or property tax for your principal residence in 2024.
- You paid for energy costs while living on a reserve.
- You lived in a long-term care home in Ontario.
Additional eligibility details:
- Age: Must be at least 18 years old, a parent, or married/common-law.
- Income: Payments are income-tested, with higher amounts available to low- and moderate-income families.
- Residency: Must be an Ontario resident at the end of the tax year.
Maximum Amounts for 2025
Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
- Up to $1,248 for individuals under 65.
- Up to $1,421 for seniors aged 65 or older.
Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
- Up to $176 for individuals.
- Up to $272 for families.
Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
- Up to $360 per adult and child.
Total Possible OTB 2025: Depending on your situation, families could receive over $2,000 annually when combining all three credits.
OTB Payment Dates for 2025
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is paid monthly, typically on the 10th of each month.
For 2025, the expected payment dates are:
- January 10, 2025
- February 10, 2025
- March 10, 2025
- April 10, 2025
- May 9, 2025
- June 10, 2025
- July 10, 2025
- August 8, 2025
- September 10, 2025
- October 10, 2025
- November 10, 2025
- December 10, 2025
If the date falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are issued on the last business day before.
How to Apply for the OTB
You do not need a separate application for the OTB. Instead, you must:
- File your tax return every year, even with no income.
- Complete Form ON-BEN when filing your return.
- Ensure your rent/property tax and energy costs are reported accurately.
If you qualify, CRA will automatically calculate your entitlement and deposit the OTB monthly.
Special Notes for 2025
- Seniors: Seniors who pay property taxes or rent are often eligible for higher maximum amounts.
- Families in Northern Ontario: Extra support is available through the NOEC.
- Direct Deposit: Payments are faster and safer when banking information is up to date.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the OTB taxable?
No, the OTB is a tax-free benefit.
2. Do I need to reapply each year?
You must file your taxes annually and complete Form ON-BEN to continue receiving OTB.
3. Can I choose annual payment instead of monthly?
Yes, if your annual entitlement is under $360, CRA will pay it as a lump sum in July instead of monthly
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) continues in 2025 as a vital support program for low- and moderate-income Ontarians, helping cover energy, sales tax, and property tax costs. By filing your taxes and completing the ON-BEN form, you can ensure you receive your full entitlement throughout the year.