Intro
Owning a home as a senior in Ontario brings many blessings—and expenses, too. One helpful program seniors can benefit from is the Ontario Senior Homeowners’ Property Tax Grant (OSHPTG). With the cost of housing and taxes rising, this grant can ease the burden—potentially offering up to $500 annually to eligible homeowners.
Why It Matters
Property taxes are a recurring expense, and for fixed-income seniors, even a small reduction can make a big difference. The OSHPTG helps offset this cost, keeping homeownership affordable and allowing seniors to allocate funds toward healthcare, essential living expenses, or home care.
Who It’s For
Ontario seniors may qualify if they:
- Were 64 or older on December 31, 2024
- Resided in Ontario and owned and occupied a principal residence (or life-lease/long-term lease)
- Paid property tax in 2024
- Have low to moderate income (single under $50K, couple under $60K combined)
- File the Ontario Trillium Benefit application (Form ON‑BEN) with their tax return
Key Points & Application Steps
1. Grant Amount
Eligible seniors may receive up to $500 per year, but it cannot exceed the actual property tax paid.
2. Income Clawback
The grant reduces gradually by approximately 3.33% of income above certain thresholds ($35K single / $45K couple)
3. How to Apply
- File your 2024 income tax return.
- Complete Form ON‑BEN and tick box for OSHPTG.
- Enter property tax paid in box 61120.
- Submit with your CRA return.
4. Joint Applications
If married or common-law, only one spouse can apply, even if both are seniors.
5. Payment Timing
Payments are issued approximately 4–8 weeks after CRA processes your notice of assessment.
Real-Life Scenario
Meet Joan & Bill, retirees in Peel Region
They’re both 68, live in their own home, and their combined income is $52,000. Their property tax bill for 2024 was $4,200.
- Joan files their joint tax return.
- She completes Form ON‑BEN, ticks the OSHPTG box, and reports the full tax amount paid.
- CRA issues them a grant of up to $500, which will appear as a credit or direct deposit within two months.
That extra $500 helps cover heating costs or a medical expense—every bit counts.
FAQ
Q: What if I rent?
A: This grant is for property-owning seniors only. Renters aren’t eligible unless they’re in a life-lease or a 10+ year lease paid in full.
Q: Can I claim for more than one property?
A: No. Only your principal residence counts, and only one property is eligible .
Q: I’m a widow living in a nursing home—can I apply?
A: Yes. Either spouse can apply as long as one owned and lived in the home as of December 31, 2024.
Conclusion
The OSHPTG is a valuable, easy-to-access benefit—offering up to $500 in annual savings. Filing Form ON‑BEN alongside your tax return ensures you don’t miss out. For many seniors in Peel and across Ontario, this grant provides meaningful financial relief and peace of mind.