Feeling the pinch from rising prices? Here’s some good news for Ontarians — two major support payments are arriving this week, and you might be eligible for both.
On October 10, the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) and the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB) will land in eligible bank accounts across the province. For many low- and middle-income residents, this extra boost could mean breathing room on bills, groceries, or even rent.
Now, before you wait for the mail — remember that Canada Post delays can affect cheques. The easiest way to avoid that? Sign up for direct deposit through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) so your payment goes straight to your account without delay.
Let’s break down both benefits in simple terms so you know what’s coming, who qualifies, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.
What Is the Ontario Trillium Benefit?
Think of the Ontario Trillium Benefit as a three-in-one relief package designed to help with the everyday cost of living. It combines three credits into one convenient payment:
- Ontario Sales Tax Credit – helps offset sales tax on goods and services.
- Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit – supports homeowners and renters with property and energy costs.
- Northern Ontario Energy Credit – provides extra help for residents living in Northern Ontario, where heating costs are higher.
All three come together to form the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) — a single monthly or lump-sum payment managed by the CRA.
Who Can Receive It?
If you qualify for any one of the three credits above, you automatically qualify for the OTB.
There’s no separate application — just make sure you’ve filed your income tax and benefit return, including the Ontario Benefits application section.
The CRA reviews your tax information and determines your eligibility based on income, family size, and location.
💡 Tip for young adults: If you turn 18 before June 2026, file your taxes before the April 30 deadline to check if you qualify — many new adults miss out on hundreds of dollars just because they didn’t file.
How Much Can You Expect?
Amounts vary based on your personal situation. To estimate your benefit, use the CRA’s Child and Family Benefits Calculator online.
If your annual OTB is over $360, you get to choose how you want it:
- Monthly payments (starting each July), or
- One lump-sum payment in June the following year.
The next OTB payment arrives on October 10, followed by November 10 and December 10.
Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB): A Boost for Working Canadians
Now, let’s talk about the second payment hitting bank accounts this week — the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit.
This program is for low-income individuals and families who are working hard but still struggling to make ends meet.
It includes two parts:
- Basic Amount, and
- Disability Supplement, for those who qualify under the disability tax credit.
Who’s Eligible for the Canada Workers Benefit?
Eligibility depends on your net income and family situation.
For Ontario residents in 2025, here are the limits:
- Families with children: Income below $48,093
- Individuals without children: Income below $36,749
You must also:
- Be a Canadian resident for the full year,
- Be 19 years or older before December 31, or
- Have a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child.
If you meet these requirements, the CRA will automatically determine your eligibility when you file your taxes.
How Much Could You Get?
The exact amount depends on your income and family size, but you can estimate your benefit using the CRA’s calculator.
Half of your total benefit can be sent as advanced payments — that’s the “Advanced” in the name — meaning you don’t need to wait until tax season to receive support.
The next ACWB payment date is October 10, 2025.
Disability Supplement: Extra Support If You Qualify
If you have an approved Disability Tax Credit Certificate (T2201) on file with the CRA, you might also receive the Disability Supplement.
To qualify in Ontario:
- Individuals without children: Net income below $42,221
- If you have a spouse or common-law partner, and only one of you is eligible, that person should claim both the basic amount and the supplement.
- If both qualify, only one person can claim the basic amount.
This ensures families receive the full entitled benefit without duplication.
Don’t Miss Your Payment
To make sure your benefit arrives smoothly:
- Sign up for direct deposit through your CRA account.
- Keep your personal info updated, including address and banking details.
- And, of course, file your 2024 taxes on time — that’s the only way CRA can assess your eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I apply for the Ontario Trillium Benefit or Canada Workers Benefit?
You don’t need to apply separately. Once you file your taxes, the CRA automatically reviews your information to determine eligibility for both benefits.
2. Can I receive both benefits at the same time?
Yes! If you qualify, you can receive both the OTB and ACWB payments — they’re separate programs aimed at helping with living and working expenses.
3. What if I missed a previous payment?
If you believe you qualified but didn’t receive your payment, contact the CRA directly or check your My Account portal for payment status and updates.