The Ontario Trillium Benefit, often referred to as OTB, helps eligible Ontarians with the cost of energy, property tax, and sales tax. Not all Ontario residents or households, however, are eligible for this benefit. Learn all about OTB in this simple guide.
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What is Ontario Trillium Benefit?
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a bundle of three refundable tax credits turned into one convenient monthly payment (can also be received in a lump sum), administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). These Ontario tax credits include:
- Ontario energy tax credit – helps with the cost of energy whether you own a home, rent, or live in a long-term care facility.
- Northern Ontario energy credit (NOEC) – additional help for residents in Northern Ontario as they face higher energy expenses than in other regions.
- Ontario sales tax credit – offsets the sales tax (GST/HST) eligible Ontarians pay on everyday goods and services.
Knowing the specific targets of OTB gives you an idea if you are eligible for the benefit or not.
Who Qualifies for OTB?
Here’s the general criteria for the Ontario Trillium Benefit:
- You must be a resident of Ontario.
- You must be 18 years of age or older. If you are under 18, you must be married, a parent, or have been married or a parent.
- You must have filed an income tax and benefit return for the previous tax year with the CRA.
You need to meet the general OTB eligibility before you can be eligible for its three components:
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit – you (or your spouse or common-law partner) must have paid property tax or rent for your main home in Ontario during the tax year.
- Northern Ontario energy credit – you live in an eligible Northern Ontario location for at least one month of the benefit period.
- Ontario sales tax credit – you earn low-to-moderate income; even those with no net income or without income tax to pay may be eligible.
The CRA uses the information from your tax return to determine your eligibility and payment.
How Much OTB Can I Get?
The amount of OTB you get depends on the combined total of all three OTB components. It can vary greatly based on your specific circumstances, including your income, property tax or rent paid, and the number of people in your family.
For a more personalized estimate, try an OTB calculator or check out the official government websites.
When Are OTB Payment Dates?
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is typically paid monthly on the 10th of each month. If the 10th falls on a weekend or a public holiday, the payment is usually issued on the next business day. For the rest of this year, you can receive OTB by the following dates:
- July 10, 2025
- August 8, 2025
- September 10, 2025
- October 10, 2025
- November 10, 2025
- December 10, 2025
See CRA’s complete list of benefits payment dates.
If your annual 2025 OTB entitlement is more than $360, you can choose to wait to get your entitlement in one payment at the end of the benefit year, in June 2026, instead of receiving monthly payments from July 2025 to June 2026. If your total OTB entitlement is $360 or less, the CRA will pay it as a lump sum in July rather than monthly installments.
How Are OTB Payments Made?
OTB payments are usually made by CRA via direct deposit into your chequing account if you have provided your banking information or mails cheques, depending on your tax return preferences.
Even if you indicated lump sum payment in your tax return, you also receive the payments through direct deposits.
How to Apply for OTB
Applying for OTB is done as you file your tax return with the CRA; no need for a separate application form. Here’s how to apply:
- File your Income Tax and Benefit Return
- Complete form ON-BEN to apply for the specific Ontario benefits
- Provide property tax or rent information for the energy credits
- Indicate your payment preference (either monthly installments or one lump sums)
- Make sure that the CRA has your correct direct deposit information (you can check and update through your CRA My Account online)
Even if you have no income tax to pay, if you believe you are eligible, be sure to file a tax return so you can apply for the OTB. This refundable tax credit can provide valuable financial assistance.
FAQS on OTB
No, the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a tax-free payment. You do not need to report the OTB as income on your tax return.
First, check your CRA My Account online to confirm your eligibility and payment status. If needed, contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) directly for assistance.
You generally need to be a resident of Ontario to receive the OTB. If you move out of the province, you may no longer be eligible. You should inform the CRA of your change of address.
Yes. If you meet the other eligibility requirements, you should still file a tax return to apply for the OTB, even if you have no income to report for the year.
Get Expert Assistance
The Ontario Trillium Benefit provides crucial financial relief, but ensuring you meet all the OTB eligibility criteria and complete your tax return accurately is key. Legend Fusions specializes in helping Ontarians like you access all available refundable tax credits. Feel free to consult our tax expert!
Reviewed by:
Jeffrey Ross
Jeffrey Ross is an experienced tax accountant focused on US-Canada cross-border taxation, with over three years in the industry, including a key role as client manager at a Canadian tax firm. He provides expertise in corporate and personal tax planning, specializing in non-resident tax, capital gains, CRA and IRS compliance, and retirement planning. Known for his personalized approach, Jeffrey is dedicated to guiding clients with clear, practical advice tailored to complex tax scenarios, aligned with the evolving tax laws.