New Ontario Trillium Benefit Payment Coming On January 9

Summary: Ontario households eligible for the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) will receive their first deposit of 2026 on January 9, 2026, as per the CRA’s schedule.

Ontario Trillium Benefit Details

The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) in 2026 offers up to $3,230 to a family of 4 across the year. Unlike standalone applications, OTB combines three Ontario credits based on tax returns into a monthly payment. This setup means that various groups like renters, students in certain residences, seniors, and Northern Ontario residents facing high energy costs can qualify without realizing it.

What is the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)?

The OTB is a tax-free combined payment of three credits, namely the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC), Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC), and Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC). These credits are bundled together and paid out monthly.

OTB Payment Schedule for 2026

• • January 9, 2026

• • February 10, 2026

• • March 10, 2026

• • April 10, 2026

• • May 8, 2026

• • June 10, 202

• • July 10, 2026

• • August 10, 2026

• • September 10, 2026

• • October 9, 2026

• • November 10, 2026

• • December 10, 2026

Eligibility and Payment Details

OTB is paid through direct deposit for those already receiving tax refunds in that manner. Otherwise, a cheque is issued. If the annual entitlement is $360 or less, it’s paid out in July as a lump sum. For amounts over $360, recipients can opt for a single payment at the end of the benefit year.

Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)

The OSTC, part of the OTB, offers relief for sales tax paid by low- to moderate-income Ontario residents. Eligibility for OSTC is determined based on tax return information, and it’s typically paid to the first-assessed spouse or partner.