Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) Guide for 2025
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a crucial monthly payment program for many Ontario residents. It combines three key provincial tax credits—the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC), Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC), and the Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)—into one convenient benefit. Whether you're a renter, homeowner, or living in Northern Ontario, understanding the OTB can help you maximize your annual tax refund and manage living costs.
What is the Ontario Trillium Benefit?
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) provides monthly, tax-free payments to help offset property tax, sales tax, and energy costs for eligible Ontarians. The OTB is made up of:
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC): Helps with property and energy costs for low- to moderate-income individuals, including renters and homeowners.
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC): Provides relief for the Ontario portion of the HST (sales tax) for lower-income residents.
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC): Offers extra benefits for residents of Northern Ontario to help with higher energy costs.
The benefit is paid monthly (July to June), based on your previous year's income tax return. You must file your tax return annually—even if you have no income—to qualify.
Who is Eligible for the OTB?
Eligibility depends on several factors, including your age, residency, income, and whether you pay rent or property tax. You may qualify if you:
- Are a resident of Ontario on December 31 of the previous tax year.
- Are 18 or older, or have (or had) a spouse/common-law partner, or are a parent who lives (or lived) with your child.
- Paid property tax or rent for your principal residence in Ontario, or lived on a reserve and paid for home energy, or lived in a public long-term care home and paid accommodation costs.
- Meet specific income thresholds (the benefit is income-tested).
How to Apply for the OTB
There is no separate application form for the OTB. You apply by filing your annual personal income tax return and completing Schedule ON-BEN (Ontario Benefits). The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) administers payments based on your tax return.
- When you prepare your tax return, ensure you complete the ON-BEN schedule (either online or on paper).
- Provide accurate information on your rent, property tax, or energy costs.
- If you have a spouse/common-law partner, only one of you should claim the OTB for the family.
- File your return before the tax deadline to avoid delays in your OTB payments.
How Much is the Ontario Trillium Benefit?
The OTB amount varies based on your family income, living situation, and which parts of the benefit you qualify for. As of 2025, maximum annual amounts for each component are as follows:
| Credit | Maximum Annual Benefit (Single) | Maximum Annual Benefit (Family) |
|---|---|---|
| OEPTC | ~$1,194 | ~$1,360 |
| OSTC | $345 (per adult and child) | |
| NOEC | $158 | $243 |
Actual benefit depends on income, property/rent paid, and family status. For precise calculation, use the CRA's benefit estimator or consult your tax software.
When and How Do I Get Paid?
- OTB is paid monthly (July to June), based on your previous year's tax return. If your total benefit is $360 or less, you may receive it as a lump sum in July.
- Payments are made by direct deposit (if set up) or cheque.
- If your situation changes (address, marital status, income), report it to the CRA to avoid under/over-payments.
Tips to Maximize Your Ontario Trillium Benefit
- Always file your Ontario tax return, even with no income, to trigger the OTB review.
- Keep receipts for rent, property tax, or energy costs in case of CRA review.
- Only one spouse/common-law partner should claim the OTB for the family each year.
- Review eligibility for all three components of the OTB; one or more may apply to you.
- Update your address and banking info with the CRA for uninterrupted payments.
- Check if you qualify for the Northern Ontario Energy Credit if living in qualifying northern areas.