Ontario residents who rely on the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) can expect their next monthly payment on December 10, 2025, providing crucial financial assistance during the winter months. This payment is especially vital as household expenses peak due to heating bills, groceries, and holiday spending.
The OTB, a significant non-taxable monthly support administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), plays a crucial role in supporting low- and modest-income individuals in Ontario. Following the OTB payment increases in July 2025, eligible recipients can now receive up to $2,100 annually, based on factors like income, household size, and residency.
Understanding the Ontario Trillium Benefit
The Ontario Trillium Benefit combines three provincial tax credits – the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC), Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC), and Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC) – into a single monthly payment issued by the CRA. Payments for the 2025–2026 benefit year are calculated using the 2024 income tax returns.
2026 Payment Schedule
- January 9, 2026
- February 10, 2026
- March 10, 2026
- April 10, 2026
- May 8, 2026
- June 10, 2026
Recipients entitled to an annual benefit of $360 or less received a lump-sum payment in July 2025. Those with higher entitlements will continue to receive monthly payments until June 2026, provided their information with the CRA remains up to date.
Benefit Amounts
The OTB increased in July 2025 to assist residents in coping with escalating living costs, particularly benefiting renters, homeowners, seniors, and individuals in Northern Ontario. The new amounts for each credit are:
Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)
- Up to $185 for singles
- Up to $285 for families
Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
- Up to $1,283 for adults aged 18-64
- Up to $1,461 for seniors aged 65+
- Up to $285 for long-term care home/reserve residents
- Up to $25 for eligible student residents
Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
- Up to $371 for an individual
- Additional $371 for a spouse/partner
- Extra $371 for each child under 19
For example, a single Northern Ontario resident eligible for all three credits could receive a total of $1,839 annually. Families with dependents may qualify for over $2,100 annually, based on their income and eligibility.
Eligibility Requirements
To receive the OTB for the 2025–2026 period, individuals must:
- Be an Ontario resident by December 31, 2024
- Have submitted a 2024 income tax return
- Hold a valid Social Insurance Number
- Have paid rent, property tax, or energy costs in Ontario during 2024
Eligibility for at least one of the three credits – OSTC, OEPTC, or NOEC – is required to qualify for the OTB. Temporary residents like international students, work permit holders, and visitors usually do not receive OTB payments automatically.
