The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is an important program that helps many Ontario residents with living costs. It combines three different credits: the Ontario Sales Tax Credit, the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, and the Northern Ontario Energy Credit. The OTB can provide much-needed financial support throughout the year for those who qualify.
In this blog post, I’ll share the latest information about the Ontario Trillium Benefit amounts and payment dates.
Ontario Trillium Benefit Payment Dates
The OTB is usually paid on the 10th of each month. If the 10th falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment will be made on the closest business day before. For the 2024-2025 benefit year, payments start on July 10, 2024, and end on June 10, 2025.
- January 10, 2024
- February 9, 2024
- March 8, 2024
- April 10, 2024
- May 10, 2024
- June 10, 2024
- July 10, 2024
- August 9, 2024
- September 10, 2024
- October 10, 2024
- November 8, 2024
- December 10, 2024
Maximum Benefit Amounts
The maximum annual OTB amount varies depending on your family situation, income, and which benefits you qualify for. The amounts are split into monthly payments throughout the year. The maximum payment for each benefit is discussed in subsequent slides.
How Payments Are Made
The OTB is typically paid through direct deposit to your bank account. If you haven’t set up direct deposit, you’ll receive your payments by cheque in the mail. Direct deposit is faster and more secure than mailed cheques. You can set up direct deposit through your CRA My Account or by contacting the CRA directly.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the OTB, you must be an Ontario resident on the first day of the payment month. You also need to meet at least one of these conditions: be 18 years or older, have or previously had a spouse or common-law partner, or be a parent living with your child. Your eligibility is automatically assessed when you file your income tax return.
Northern Ontario Energy Credit
If you live in Northern Ontario, you might be eligible for an additional amount through the Northern Ontario Energy Credit. This credit helps with the higher energy costs in northern communities. The maximum annual amount is $180 for single individuals and $277 for families. This amount is included in your monthly OTB payment if you qualify.
Ontario Sales Tax Credit
The Ontario Sales Tax Credit is part of the OTB and helps offset the sales tax you pay. This credit is available to low to moderate-income individuals and families. The maximum annual amount is $360 for each adult and child in the family. This credit is calculated based on your family net income and is included in your monthly OTB payment.
Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit
This credit helps with the cost of energy and property taxes. The maximum annual amount varies depending on your age and living situation. For non-seniors, it’s up to $1,248 if you live in a rented or owned home. Seniors can receive up to $1,421. The actual amount you get depends on your income and housing costs.
Lump Sum Payment Option
If your annual OTB amount is $360 or less, you’ll receive it as a single lump sum payment in July. This is instead of monthly payments throughout the year. The lump sum option helps reduce administrative costs for smaller amounts. If you prefer monthly payments, you can choose this option by contacting the CRA.
Changes in Circumstances
If your circumstances change during the benefit year, it could affect your OTB amount. Changes like moving, getting married, or having a child should be reported to the CRA as soon as possible. You can update your information through your CRA My Account or by calling the CRA. Keeping your information up to date ensures you receive the correct benefit amount.
How to Check Your Benefit Amount
You can check your OTB amount online through your CRA My Account. This secure portal shows your benefit details, including payment amounts and dates. If you don’t have an online account, you can also call the CRA’s automated phone service. Knowing how to check your benefit amount helps you stay informed about your payments.
What to Do If You Miss a Payment
If you don’t receive your OTB payment on the expected date, wait 5 business days before taking action. After this time, you can check your CRA My Account or call the CRA to inquire about the missing payment. Payments might be delayed due to changes in your information or technical issues.
File Your Taxes On Time
Filing your taxes on time is crucial for receiving your OTB payments without interruption. If you file your taxes late, your benefits might be delayed or stopped. The CRA uses your tax return information to calculate your benefit amount. Ensure you file your taxes by the deadline each year to avoid any issues with your OTB payments.
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