In November 2024, Ontario residents will receive two important benefit payments from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA): the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB).
These payments are designed to support eligible residents, particularly low- and moderate-income households, in managing the increasing costs of daily essentials. With the rising cost of living, these benefits serve as vital financial relief for Ontario families and individuals.
The CCB aids families with the expenses of raising children, helping to cover essentials like food, school supplies, and clothing. Meanwhile, the OTB provides financial relief on costs related to sales tax, property tax, and energy expenses, assisting households in managing their monthly budgets.
By extending these benefits to eligible temporary residents, Canada acknowledges their valuable contributions to the community and supports their integration into Canadian society.
1. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment designed to assist families with children under 18 by easing the financial responsibilities of raising children.
The CCB offers support to cover costs related to children, including education, healthcare, and childcare needs. For millions of families across Canada, this benefit is a vital tool for managing the financial challenges of child-rearing.
Eligibility for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
To qualify for the CCB, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria:
- Residency: Applicants must reside in Canada and hold Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or another qualifying immigration status.
- Primary Caregiver: Only the primary caregiver, usually a parent, can apply for the CCB. In shared custody arrangements, payments may be divided between caregivers.
- Income-Based: The benefit amount is income-tested, providing higher monthly payments to families with lower incomes.
Temporary Residents and CCB Eligibility
Temporary residents may also qualify for the CCB if they meet certain conditions:
- They must have lived in Canada for at least 18 months under a valid temporary resident status, such as a work permit.
- Their permit must allow them to receive social benefits.
The CRA requires temporary residents who qualify to provide proof of status and primary caregiver documentation.
Canada Child Benefit Maximum Payments in 2024
The CCB amount depends on family income and the child’s age:
- For children under 6: Families may receive up to $7,787 per child annually.
- For children aged 6 to 17: Families may be eligible for up to $6,570 per child annually.
The exact payment amount varies based on net family income, with higher incomes reducing the benefit.
Next Canada Child Benefit Payment Date: November 2024
The CCB is issued monthly, with the next payment scheduled for November 20, 2024. Payments will be deposited directly into bank accounts for those enrolled in direct deposit, while others will receive checks by mail.
2. Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a provincial support program that helps low- and moderate-income residents manage financial challenges.
It combines three key tax credits:
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC) (for eligible residents in Northern Ontario)
The OTB provides relief for expenses like sales tax, energy bills, and property tax, helping qualified individuals and families reduce their monthly financial burden.
Eligibility for the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
To qualify for the OTB, applicants must meet certain residency, income, and tax requirements:
- Ontario Residency: Applicants must be residents of Ontario as of December 31 of the previous tax year.
- Income Limit: The benefit is income-based, meaning those with higher incomes may receive smaller or no payments.
- Tax Filing: To be eligible, applicants must file their tax return, as the OTB is determined by the previous year’s tax information.
OTB Eligibility for Temporary Residents
Temporary residents may also qualify for the OTB if they meet these criteria:
- They must have been residents of Ontario as of December 31 of the previous tax year.
- They need a valid permit or residency status and must file their tax return on time, including any tax credits they want to claim.
The CRA will review their eligibility based on their residency, income, and tax return.
Maximum OTB Payments for 2024
Each part of the OTB has a maximum payment amount:
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit: Up to $360 per adult or child each year.
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit: Up to $1,248 for non-seniors and $1,421 for seniors.
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit: For residents in Northern Ontario, up to $180 for singles and $277 for families.
Next OTB Payment Date: November 2024
The OTB is paid monthly if the total amount exceeds a specific threshold. Eligible residents can expect their next OTB payment on November 8, 2024.
How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
Applying for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
Eligible applicants, including certain temporary residents, can apply for the CCB either online through the CRA My Account portal or by mailing a completed paper application form. Proof of status and primary caregiver documentation may be required.
Applying for the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)
Ontario residents, including eligible temporary residents, only need to file their annual income tax return to apply for the OTB. Indicate eligibility for the tax credits within the return. The CRA will then review eligibility based on the information provided, including income and residency details.
Upcoming Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Payment Dates in 2024
The upcoming CCB payment dates in 2024 are November 20 and December 13, 2024.
Upcoming Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) Payment Dates in 2024
Next OTB payments will be paid on November 8 and December 10.
