Are you ready to ease your financial burdens? Mark your calendars for January 10, 2025, as the first Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) payment of the year is on its way, providing essential financial support to thousands of residents across the province.

The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a crucial program designed to assist low- and moderate-income families in Ontario, helping them cope with escalating living costs. This includes addressing rising property taxes, soaring energy expenses, and the impact of sales taxes. With economic pressures mounting, this benefit offers a vital lifeline to many Ontarians.

The benefit comprises three key provincial tax credits administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA):

1. Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)

2. Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)

3. Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)

For 2025, OTB payment dates are as follows: - January 10 - February 10 - March 10 - April 10 - May 9 - June 10 - July 10 - August 8 - September 10 - October 10 - November 10 - December 10

For those with an annual entitlement of $360 or less, you'll have already received a lump-sum payment in July 2024. If your entitlement exceeds this amount, payments will be distributed over 12 months, ensuring consistent support throughout the year.

Are You Eligible?

To receive the Ontario Trillium Benefit, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria, including: - Residency in Ontario. - Filing an income tax return. - Possessing a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).

Additional requirements for each tax credit include: - OSTC: Must be 19 years or older, a parent, or in a marital/common-law relationship. - OEPTC: Must have paid property taxes or rent and be a resident of Ontario as of December 31, 2023. - NOEC: Must reside in Northern Ontario, be at least 18 years old, and have incurred energy costs or property taxes.

How Much Could You Receive?

The OTB amount varies based on your household size, income, and living location. For example, in 2024, the maximum amounts are anticipated to be: - Northern Ontario Energy Credit: Up to $180 for individuals and up to $277 for families. - Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit: Up to $1,421 for seniors, and up to $1,248 for individuals aged 18-64. - Ontario Sales Tax Credit: Up to $360 per adult or child in the household.

Applying for the Ontario Trillium Benefit