Understanding Your OTB Notice: Ontario Trillium Benefit Payment Guide for 2026

What You Need to Know About the Ontario Trillium Benefit

The Ontario Trillium Benefit serves as an integrated tax relief program designed to assist qualifying Ontario residents in managing their household expenses. Rather than receiving three separate provincial credits, eligible taxpayers receive a single combined monthly payment that consolidates support across three key areas: energy costs, sales tax, and property taxes.

The program is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) on behalf of the Ontario government, and importantly, you don’t need to submit a separate application. Once you file your annual income tax return and complete the ON-BEN form, you’re automatically assessed for any credits you qualify for.

The Three Components of Your OTB

Your overall benefit amount depends on your eligibility for one or more of these three integrated credits:

Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)

This component addresses housing costs for eligible residents. The credit is calculated based on your age, marital status, and actual expenses paid for property taxes or rent. Seniors aged 64 and older can receive up to $1,461 annually, while other qualifying residents may receive up to $1,283. The amount fluctuates based on your total income and specific tax situation.

Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)

Residents in Northern Ontario face elevated energy expenses due to geographic factors. This credit recognizes that disparity by providing additional support. Single individuals with no dependents can receive a maximum of $185, while couples and single-parent families may qualify for up to $285. The credit phases out gradually as adjusted family net income increases—specifically, by 1% for every dollar of income exceeding $49,885 for individuals or $64,138 for families.

Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)

This tax-free benefit provides up to $371 annually per adult and per child in the household, designed to offset the cumulative impact of sales tax throughout the year. Your specific entitlement depends on age and family composition.

When Your OTB Payments Arrive in 2026

Your OTB notice will indicate your payment schedule. Payments are distributed on the 10th of each month; if that date falls on a weekend or statutory holiday, payment is issued on the last business day before the 10th.

For your 2025 income (payments issued during 2026):

• January 9, 2026
• February 10, 2026
• March 10, 2026
• April 10, 2026
• May 8, 2026
• June 10, 2026

For your 2026 income (payments issued during 2026):

• July 10, 2026
• August 10, 2026
• September 10, 2026
• October 9, 2026
• November 10, 2026
• December 10, 2026

Who Qualifies for the Ontario Trillium Benefit?

To receive OTB payments, you must meet these baseline requirements:

• Reside in Ontario
• Be at least 19 years old
• File an annual income tax return
• Meet income thresholds for at least one of the three credit components

The specific income limits and household composition rules vary depending on which credits you’re eligible for. To estimate your anticipated benefit amount, use the Government of Canada’s child and family benefits calculator available through the CRA website.

Calculating Your Specific OTB Amount

Your personal benefit depends on several interconnected factors: your current age, total household income, primary residence location within Ontario, number of dependents, and documented expenses for property tax or rent during the tax year. Because these variables are individual-specific, your OTB amount may differ significantly from others.

An important payment threshold applies: amounts of $10 or more are issued monthly, while amounts under $2 are not paid. Amounts between $2 and $10 are automatically rounded up to $10 for payment purposes.

Payment Options: Monthly Disbursement vs. Single Lump Sum

By default, your annual OTB is divided into 12 equal monthly payments from July through June. However, the program offers flexibility depending on your benefit amount:

Automatic Single Payment Option: If your annual OTB totals $360 or less, you automatically receive a single consolidated payment.

Discretionary Single Payment Option: If your annual OTB exceeds $360, you can elect to receive all funds in a single lump sum delivered in June 2027 instead of monthly installments. To request this option, check box 61060 on Form ON-BEN when completing your 2025 tax return.

Processing Timeline and Important Dates

Once you file your 2025 income tax return with the completed ON-BEN application form, the CRA automatically assesses your eligibility and benefit amount. Most taxpayers begin receiving payments according to the schedule outlined above.

If your tax return is assessed on June 20, 2026 or later, expect a processing delay. Your initial payment will arrive within four to eight weeks following your assessment date rather than according to the standard schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your OTB Notice

How often are payments made?

Payments are issued once monthly around the 10th of each month, or the preceding business day if the 10th falls on a weekend or holiday.

Is there a minimum income requirement?

Income limits exist for each credit component, but they vary based on family structure, age, and residence. Consult the benefits calculator or contact the CRA for your specific situation.

What if my circumstances change during the benefit year?

Changes in income, residence, or family composition after filing may affect your benefit amount. These adjustments are typically reflected in your next benefit year payments based on your updated tax return.

Can I receive my payments through direct deposit?

Yes—direct deposit to your Canadian bank account is available and recommended for secure, reliable payment delivery.

The Ontario Trillium Benefit represents meaningful annual support for hundreds of thousands of Ontario households. Understanding your eligibility, payment schedule, and available options helps you maximize this financial resource in your household budget.