As the cost of living continues to rise across Ontario, many low- to moderate-income individuals and families are looking for financial relief. One key support measure is the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB), a monthly payment designed to offset expenses like sales tax, property tax, and energy costs. For 2026, the benefit continues to evolve to address increasing economic pressures, offering larger payments and broader eligibility in some cases. These funds can help Ontarians manage everyday household costs, especially as inflation remains a concern in major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton.
The OTB brings together three tax credits into one monthly or annual payment: the Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC), Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC), and Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC). The good news? Many residents may not even realize they’re eligible or know how much they stand to receive. With automatic assessment through your personal income tax return, the benefit is among the most accessible social supports available. Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies, how much you could get in 2026, and when your payments will arrive in your bank account.
Ontario Trillium Benefit 2026 overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) |
| Payment Frequency | Monthly (July 2026 to June 2027) |
| Combined Credits | NOEC, OSTC, OEPTC |
| Eligibility Basis | Filed Personal Income Tax Return for 2025 |
| Maximum Benefits | Up to $1,194 (OEPTC), $316 (OSTC), $243–$275 (NOEC) |
| Payment Start | July 10, 2026 |
What changed this year
For 2026, the Ontario Trillium Benefit reflects updated income thresholds and inflation-indexed credit amounts, in line with the provincial government’s economic outlook. The OEPTC, which provides support for property taxes and energy costs, is the largest of the three credits and can be as high as $1,194 for non-seniors and even more for seniors. The OSTC rose to $316 per adult and child, offering general sales tax relief. Lastly, the NOEC, aimed at northern Ontarians, ranges from $243 for singles to $275 for families.
One critical update for 2026 is the automatic adjustment for inflation. This ensures that as living costs rise, payment amounts are recalibrated to maintain meaningful impact. Eligibility is still based on your 2025 tax return, which makes filing early critical—even if you have low or no income. Similarly, eligible individuals who fail to apply for the related credits on their tax return may be leaving money on the table.
Who qualifies and why it matters
To qualify for the Ontario Trillium Benefit in 2026, you must meet the income and residency criteria, and have completed your 2025 income tax return. The program serves:
- Ontario residents aged 18 or older
- Those with a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- People who paid rent or property tax in Ontario in 2025
- Residents who paid home energy costs on a principal residence
Seniors, families with children, individuals with disabilities, and low-income workers often benefit the most. For example, a couple with two children and combined income under $50,000 may qualify for multiple credits totaling over $1,500 annually. Meanwhile, a single senior living alone in rental housing could see significant relief through enhanced OEPTC payments.
How to apply step-by-step
Unlike many government benefits, the OTB doesn’t require a separate application. Instead, it’s based entirely on your personal income tax return—specifically, the ON-BEN Application for the Ontario Trillium Benefit and Seniors Property Tax Grant. Here’s how to ensure you’re set to receive payments:
- File your 2025 income tax and benefit return—even with little or zero income.
- Complete and include the ON-BEN Application during your return submission.
- Declare all rent, property tax, and energy costs paid during 2025.
- Ensure your address and marital status are accurate on your return to avoid delays.
Once your return is assessed, the Canada Revenue Agency will determine your eligibility and calculate your monthly installments or lump sum. If you’re eligible, your first payment typically arrives July 10, 2026.
When payments are issued
The OTB is paid on a predictable, monthly schedule from July 2026 through June 2027. Payments are generally deposited around the 10th of each month. The exact payment dates are:
- July 10, 2026
- August 10, 2026
- September 10, 2026
- October 9, 2026
- November 10, 2026
- December 10, 2026
- January 9, 2027
- February 10, 2027
- March 10, 2027
- April 9, 2027
- May 10, 2027
- June 10, 2027
Note that if your total benefit amount is under $360, you will receive a single lump-sum payment in July instead of monthly installments.
Who benefits most, and who may miss out
| Winners | Losers |
|---|---|
| Low-income families with children | Ontarians who didn’t file 2025 taxes |
| Seniors living in rental properties | People with rising income exceeding new thresholds |
| Northern Ontario residents | Newcomers not yet eligible due to residency requirements |
Tips to make the most of your OTB
If you want to maximize your Trillium Benefit, here are a few things financial experts recommend:
- Always file your taxes on time, even with zero income.
- Ensure accurate reporting of your rent, utility bills, and property taxes.
- If you move, update your address with the CRA right away.
- Check your Notice of Assessment (NOA) to verify OTB eligibility and amount.
“The Ontario Trillium Benefit is one of the most underutilized credits among low-income families. Filing your taxes—even if you think you owe nothing—can result in hundreds or thousands of dollars in benefits.”
— Mark Ellison, Senior Tax Analyst
Short FAQs about Ontario Trillium Benefit 2026
When will I get my first Ontario Trillium Benefit payment in 2026?
If you’re eligible, your first payment will be issued on July 10, 2026. Monthly payments follow on the 10th of each month afterward.
How do I know if I qualify for the OTB?
You qualify if you live in Ontario, meet the income criteria, and filed your 2025 tax return with an ON-BEN form. Credits are based on rent, property taxes, and energy costs paid in 2025.
Can I get the OTB if I didn’t earn much or any income in 2025?
Yes. Even if your income was extremely low or zero, you may still qualify—especially for the OEPTC and OSTC components—provided you file your tax return.
Will the OTB impact my other government benefits?
No, the Ontario Trillium Benefit is a tax credit and does not usually count as income for other programs like ODSP, Ontario Works, or GIS.
Can I receive the payment in a single lump sum?
If your total OTB amount is less than $360 for the year, it will be issued as a lump sum in July instead of monthly payments.
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