The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a combined payment program designed to provide financial assistance to Ontario residents through three credits: the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC), the Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC), and the Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC). These credits are aimed at helping low- to moderate-income individuals and families manage costs related to energy, property taxes, and sales taxes.
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Ontario Trillium Benefit
Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
The OEPTC helps low- to moderate-income Ontario residents with property taxes and the sales tax on energy. This credit has two components:
- Energy Component: Assists with energy costs.
- Property Tax Component: Assists with property taxes paid.
Eligibility criteria include:
- Paid rent or property tax for a principal residence in Ontario.
- Paid accommodation costs in a long-term care home.
- Paid home energy costs on a reserve.
- Lived in a designated university, college, or private school residence.
Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
The NOEC provides additional assistance to residents of Northern Ontario to help cover higher energy costs in the region. Eligibility criteria are similar to those for the OEPTC but specifically for residents of Northern Ontario.
Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
The OSTC is a tax-free payment to assist with the sales tax paid by low- to moderate-income Ontario residents. The amount is based on income and family size, with specific reduction thresholds for single individuals and families.
How Payments are Issued
The OTB payments are typically issued monthly on the 10th of each month, starting in July 2024 for the 2024 benefit year. Exceptions include:
- If the 10th falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are made on the last working day before the 10th.
- For annual entitlements over $360, individuals can choose to receive a lump-sum payment in June of the following year.
- For annual entitlements of $360 or less, a lump-sum payment is made in the first payment month (usually July).
Ontario Trillium Payment Dates
| Months | Payment Dates |
| July | 10th July 2024 |
| August | 9th August 2024 |
| September | 10th September 2024 |
| October | 10th October 2024 |
| November | 8th November 2024 |
| December | 10th December 2024 |
How to Apply
To receive the OTB, you must complete the appropriate sections on your annual income tax return:
- Form ON-BEN: Application for the Ontario Trillium Benefit and the Ontario Senior Homeowners’ Property Tax Grant.
- Ensure your tax return is filed on time to avoid delays in benefit payments.
Conclusion
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is an essential financial support program for residents of Ontario, helping to alleviate the burden of property taxes, energy costs, and sales tax. By understanding your eligibility and ensuring timely filing of your tax returns, you can maximize the benefits you receive from this program.
For more detailed information, refer to the official resources or contact the Province of Ontario for assistance.
