New Ontario Trillium Benefit Payments To Be Sent On April 10

The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is an important financial support program for residents of Ontario, particularly those with low to moderate incomes. This benefit is designed to assist families in managing essential living expenses, such as rising energy costs and property taxes. The next scheduled payment is set for April 10, 2026, when eligible households will receive this tax-free benefit directly into their bank accounts.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) administers the OTB on behalf of the Ontario government, ensuring that the payments reach hundreds of thousands of qualifying families. As the tax filing deadline approaches, this payment is particularly significant for residents who may rely on the support provided by the OTB to navigate increased living costs.

In this article, we will outline the details regarding the upcoming OTB payment, including eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and upcoming changes to the benefit beginning in July 2026.

What is the Ontario Trillium Benefit?

The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a combined monthly payment that merges three provincial tax credits into one convenient deposit. These components include:

• • Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC): Provides relief from the Ontario portion of the Harmonized Sales Tax on everyday purchases.

• • Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC): Helps offset costs related to property taxes, rent, and energy expenses.

• • Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC): Offers additional support to residents in Northern Ontario, where energy costs can be higher.

 

To receive the OTB, residents need to qualify for at least one of these credits. Many families may be eligible for multiple components, significantly increasing their total benefit amount.

Upcoming Payment Details

The next OTB payment will be deposited on April 10, 2026. Payments typically arrive under the name “Canada Pro Deposit” in bank accounts. Here are the upcoming OTB payment dates for 2026:

• • April 10, 2026

• • May 8, 2026

• • June 10, 2026

• • July 10, 2026

• • August 10, 2026

• • September 10, 2026

• • October 9, 2026

• • November 10, 2026

• • December 10, 2026

 

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Ontario Trillium Benefit, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• • Must be a resident of Ontario as of December 31, 2024, for the current benefit year (July 2025 to June 2026).

• • Must be at least 18 years old, have a spouse or common-law partner, or be a parent living with a child.

• • Must not have been imprisoned for 90 or more days during the year.

 

Eligibility for each credit is assessed separately based on the information provided in the applicant’s tax return and the completed Form ON BEN.

New Payment Amounts Starting July 2026

In July 2026, the Ontario Trillium Benefit will increase due to adjustments for inflation. The maximum amounts for each component will change as follows:

• • OSTC per person: from $371 to $378

• • OEPTC (non-seniors): from $1,283 to $1,307

• • OEPTC (seniors aged 65+): from $1,461 to $1,488

• • NOEC (single individuals): from $185 to $189

 

• • NOEC (families): from $285 to $290

 

Additionally, starting in July 2026, the threshold for receiving lump-sum payments will increase from $360 to $500. This change means that recipients with an annual OTB entitlement of $500 or less will receive their full benefit as a single payment instead of monthly installments.

Common Reasons for Missing or Reduced Payments

If you expect to receive an OTB payment but do not, consider the following potential reasons:

• • Failure to file a tax return for the previous year.

• • Incomplete Form ON BEN during tax filing.

• • Increased income compared to the previous year.

• • Change in marital status, resulting in a higher combined family income.

• • Moving out of Ontario during the benefit year.

• • Outstanding debts owed to the CRA that may have been deducted from the payment.

 

FAQ

Can I receive the Ontario Trillium Benefit if I have zero income?

Yes, you can qualify for the OTB even with zero income as long as you file your tax return and complete Form ON BEN. Meeting residency and age requirements is also necessary.

What happens if I move from Northern Ontario to Southern Ontario during the benefit year?

Your eligibility for the Northern Ontario Energy Credit depends on your residence on the first day of each payment month. If you move, NOEC payments will stop, but you will continue receiving OSTC and OEPTC if you remain an Ontario resident.

Can students living in university residences qualify for the Ontario Trillium Benefit?

Yes, students in designated residences may qualify for the OEPTC component of the OTB. It is essential to complete the residence section on Form ON BEN using the official residence status information from your school.

Why does my OTB payment appear as Canada Pro Deposit in my bank account?

The OTB is funded by the Province of Ontario, but the CRA administers it, leading to payments appearing as “Canada Pro Deposit” rather than identifying each provincial program separately.

Can I choose to receive my entire OTB as a single annual payment instead of monthly?

If your annual OTB entitlement exceeds the lump sum threshold, you can opt for a single payment at the end of the benefit year. You must indicate this choice on Form ON BEN when filing your tax return.

Reality Check

While the Ontario Trillium Benefit provides essential support, there are risks and limitations to be aware of. Payments are subject to income testing, meaning that as your income increases beyond certain thresholds, your benefit amount may decrease. It is crucial to understand your eligibility and ensure that all necessary forms are completed correctly to avoid missing out on benefits.

Residents should be cautious and verify information on the official Ontario Trillium Benefit page or consult the CRA for the most accurate and updated information regarding their specific situations. Relying exclusively on third-party sources may lead to misinformation, so always refer to official resources for guidance.