Katherine Bell
Great news for Ontario residents — the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is increasing in 2025, and the first enhanced monthly payment is landing early on August 8, 2025.
This tax-free benefit, administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), is designed to provide financial relief for low- to moderate-income households across the province.
If you’re a renter, homeowner, student, senior, or even a temporary resident, this early payout could mean more cash in your pocket to offset rising costs for rent, energy bills, property taxes, and more.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 OTB, who qualifies, how much you could receive, and how to make the most of your benefit.
What Is the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)?
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a tax-free payment program that combines three important credits:
| Credit Name | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC) | Helps cover rent, property taxes, or energy bills |
| Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC) | Assists with high energy costs in Northern Ontario |
| Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC) | Offsets the impact of the provincial portion of the HST |
The OTB is issued monthly based on your 2024 income tax return. To receive it, you must file your taxes and meet specific eligibility criteria tied to income, expenses, and residency.
Why the 2025 Ontario Trillium Benefit Increase Matters
The 2025 increase comes at a time when housing, energy, and daily essentials are becoming more expensive. The OTB provides targeted financial relief, especially for households in urban centres or remote regions with higher costs of living.
Key Highlights:
- Early August Payment: Issued on August 8, 2025
- Higher Annual Limits: New benefit maximums reflect inflation
- No Application Needed: Eligibility determined from tax return
2025 OTB Payment Schedule
Payments are usually issued on the 10th of each month, or the prior business day. Here’s the full payment schedule:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| August 2025 | August 8 (early) |
| September | September 10 |
| October | October 10 |
| November | November 10 |
| December | December 10 |
| January 2026 | January 9 |
| February | February 10 |
| March | March 10 |
| April | April 10 |
| May | May 8 |
| June | June 10 |
Note: If your total entitlement is $360 or less, you would have received a lump-sum payment in July 2025.
Who Is Eligible for the 2025 Ontario Trillium Benefit?
To qualify for the OTB, you must:
- Be a resident of Ontario as of December 31, 2024
- File your 2024 taxes
- Hold a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Each credit has its own requirements:
| Credit | Key Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| OSTC | Be 19+, married/common-law, or a parent; no additional expense required |
| OEPTC | Paid rent, property tax, or energy costs in 2024; aged 18+ or meet other conditions |
| NOEC | Live in Northern Ontario; aged 18+ or meet marital/parental status; paid energy expenses |
Even temporary residents may qualify if they meet the tax residency and credit-specific criteria.
How Much Can You Get from the 2025 OTB?
The 2025 benefit amounts have been increased:
| Credit | 2025 Maximum Amounts |
|---|---|
| OEPTC (18–64) | $1,283 (up from $1,248) |
| OEPTC (65+) | $1,461 (up from $1,421) |
| NOEC (Single) | $185 (up from $180) |
| NOEC (Family) | $285 (up from $277) |
| OSTC (Per Adult/Child) | $371 (up from $360) |
| Post-Secondary Student | $25 (fixed amount) |
Example:
A senior in Northern Ontario may receive:
- $1,461 (OEPTC)
- $185 (NOEC)
- $371 (OSTC)
Total: $2,017 annually
A family of four could receive over $2,500 annually, depending on eligibility.
Income Thresholds for 2025
| Credit | Single Income Limit | Family Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| OSTC | ~$30,159 | ~$37,699 |
| OEPTC/NOEC | ~$58,238 | ~$72,798 |
Payments gradually reduce above these limits. Always check CRA’s calculator for exact amounts.
How to Receive the OTB
There’s no separate application. Just:
- File your 2024 tax return
- Ensure your address and banking details are current in CRA My Account
- Enroll in direct deposit to receive your August 8 payment quickly
Expert Tips to Maximize Your OTB
- File early: Don’t delay your taxes — they’re your ticket to benefits.
- Report all eligible expenses: Include rent, energy, and property taxes.
- Enroll in direct deposit: Avoid cheque delays and access your money fast.
- Claim dependents: Ensure you include your spouse and children for maximum OSTC benefits.
- Check your CRA My Account: Monitor benefit amounts and updates.
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is more valuable than ever in 2025. With increased payment amounts, an early August 8 deposit, and no application required, this support is designed to ease the burden of rising costs for everyday Ontarians.
Whether you’re battling energy bills in Thunder Bay or covering school costs in Toronto, this benefit can help you stay afloat. File your taxes, update your CRA info, and enroll in direct deposit — and be ready to welcome your surprise cash boost this August!
FAQs
When will the next OTB payment be issued?
The next payment is scheduled for August 8, 2025, followed by September 10.
Can temporary residents receive OTB payments?
Yes, as long as they’re Ontario residents for tax purposes and meet credit-specific criteria.
Do I need to apply separately for OTB?
No. Just file your income tax return, and the CRA will automatically assess your eligibility.