Ontario Trillium Benefit Payment: The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a vital tax-free payment designed to assist low- to moderate-income Ontario residents with expenses like energy, property, and sales taxes. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) on behalf of the Ontario government, the OTB combines three credits: the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC), Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC), and Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC). For September 2025, eligible households may receive up to $360, depending on various factors. This article outlines the payment details, eligibility requirements, application process, and key information for the OTB in September 2025.
Overview of the Ontario Trillium Benefit
The OTB is a refundable tax credit aimed at easing financial burdens for Ontario residents. Payments are issued monthly, typically on the 10th, or as a lump sum, based on your preference and entitlement amount. For September 2025, the payment is scheduled for Wednesday, September 10, 2025, and may appear as “Canada PRO Deposit” in your bank account if you use direct deposit. The benefit supports costs like rent, utilities, or property taxes, and eligibility is determined based on your 2024 income tax return.
OTB September 2025 Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Program | Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) |
| Administering Authority | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Payment Date | September 10, 2025 |
| Maximum Amount | Up to $360 (varies by household) |
| Target Group | Low- to moderate-income Ontario residents |
| Payment Mode | Direct deposit or cheque |
| Category | Canada Finance |
| Official Website | canada.ca |
Eligibility for the Ontario Trillium Benefit
To qualify for the OTB in September 2025, you must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Be a resident of Ontario as of December 31, 2024.
- Age: Be 19 or older by December 31, 2024, or be under 19 with a spouse, common-law partner, or a child you live with.
- Tax Filing: File a 2024 income tax and benefit return, even if you had no income. If you have a spouse or common-law partner, they must also file.
- Credit Eligibility: Qualify for at least one of the three OTB components:
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC): For residents paying rent, property taxes, or living in specific situations (e.g., reserves, long-term care homes).
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC): For Northern Ontario residents paying energy costs, rent, or property taxes.
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC): For low- to moderate-income individuals or families to offset sales tax.
You must complete Form ON-BEN, included in your tax package, to apply for the OEPTC or NOEC. The OSTC is assessed automatically based on your tax return.
How Much Can You Expect in September 2025?
The OTB amount for September 2025 varies based on:
- Household Size: Single individuals, couples, or families with children receive different amounts.
- Age: Seniors (65 or older) may qualify for higher OEPTC amounts.
- Income: Payments are reduced based on adjusted family net income (e.g., over $27,729 for singles or $34,661 for families for the OSTC).
- Expenses: Rent, property taxes, or energy costs reported on Form ON-BEN.
Maximum Amounts for 2025 (July 2025–June 2026):
- OEPTC: Up to $1,421 for seniors, $1,248 for non-seniors, or $285 for families.
- NOEC: Up to $185 for singles, $285 for families.
- OSTC: Up to $371 per adult and child under 19.
- Total: Households combining all credits could receive over $2,000 annually, with monthly payments averaging up to $360 for some.
If your total OTB entitlement is $360 or less, you receive a lump-sum payment in July 2025. If over $360, you can choose monthly payments or a single payment in June 2026 by ticking box 61060 on Form ON-BEN.
Payment Schedule and Options
The OTB follows a July-to-June benefit year, with payments issued on the 10th of each month (or the last business day before if it’s a weekend or holiday). For September 2025, the payment is set for September 10, 2025. You can choose:
- Monthly Payments: Default option, issued from July 2025 to June 2026, ideal for regular budgeting.
- Lump-Sum Payment: Receive the full annual amount in July 2025 (or June 2026 if selected on your 2024 return), suitable for large expenses like tuition or debt repayment.
Direct deposits are labeled “Canada PRO Deposit” and arrive faster, while cheques may take up to 10 business days. Ensure your banking details are updated via CRA’s My Account to avoid delays.
How to Apply for the OTB
To receive the OTB in September 2025:
- File Your 2024 Tax Return: Submit by April 30, 2025, to ensure timely payments starting July 2025. Late filings may delay payments by 4–8 weeks.
- Complete Form ON-BEN: Fill out this form, included in your tax package, to apply for OEPTC and NOEC. The OSTC requires no separate application.
- Submit Accurate Details: Report rent, property taxes, or energy costs accurately. Keep records, as the CRA may request verification.
- Use CRA My Account: Monitor your eligibility, payment status, or update banking details online.
- Reapply Annually: File a tax return each year to maintain eligibility, as amounts depend on your previous year’s income and circumstances.
If you miss the ON-BEN form, you can file an adjustment via CRA My Account or by mail.
Fact Check
The “$360 Ontario Trillium Benefit” refers to an average monthly payment for some households, not a guaranteed amount. Actual payments vary based on income, family size, and eligible credits. Misleading claims about fixed $360 payments should be verified through official sources like canada.ca or ontario.ca. The OTB is a critical support for low- to moderate-income Ontarians, but it may not cover all expenses given rising living costs.
Tips to Maximize Your OTB
- File Early: Submit your 2024 tax return by April 30, 2025, to avoid payment delays.
- Report All Costs: Include accurate rent, property tax, or energy expenses on Form ON-BEN to maximize credits.
- Choose Direct Deposit: Sign up via CRA My Account for faster, secure payments.
- Check Eligibility Annually: Changes in income, residency, or family status may affect your payment.
- Consult a Tax Professional: Ensure you’re claiming all eligible credits, especially if your situation is complex.
FAQs on the Ontario Trillium Benefit September 2025
When is the OTB payment for September 2025?
It’s scheduled for September 10, 2025, via direct deposit or cheque.
How much is the September 2025 payment?
Up to $360 monthly for some households, depending on income, family size, age, and expenses.
Do I need to apply separately for the OTB?
No, file your 2024 tax return with Form ON-BEN for OEPTC and NOEC. OSTC is assessed automatically.
What happens if I don’t file my tax return?
You won’t receive the OTB until you file. Retroactive payments may be issued upon filing.
How can I check my payment status?
Use CRA My Account or call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281 to verify eligibility and payment details.
Final Thoughts
The Ontario Trillium Benefit for September 2025 offers essential financial relief for low- to moderate-income Ontario residents, with payments up to $360 for some households. By filing your 2024 tax return and Form ON-BEN on time, you can ensure uninterrupted payments to help with living expenses. Stay informed through official CRA and Ontario government websites, update your details, and avoid unverified claims to maximize this support.
Disclaimer: OTB amounts vary by individual circumstances. Verify details on canada.ca or ontario.ca for accuracy.
