Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC): What You Need to Know

by | Jun 14, 2025 | Real Estate Legal and Tax

Intro

The Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC) helps lower- and moderate-income Ontario residents cover energy and property tax costs through the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB). If you paid rent or property taxes in 2024, you may qualify for up to $1,283 (non-seniors) or $1,461 (seniors) in 2025—making it an essential credit to claim when filing your taxes.


Why It Matters

  • Financial relief: Helps reduce home energy bills and property tax load.
  • Refundable: You get the full credit even if you owe zero tax.
  • Monthly support: Paid monthly through the OTB, offering consistent cash flow throughout the year.

Who It’s For

Eligible applicants are Ontario residents who, as of December 31, 2024:

  • Were at least 18, or married/common-law, or a parent living with a child.
  • Lived on that date and continue residing here from July to December 2025.
  • Paid property taxes or rent, or incurred energy costs on a reserve, or lived in a long-term care home, or in a designated student residence.

Seniors (65+) may receive a higher property tax component: $1,176 vs $998 for non-seniors.


Key Points, Steps & Tips

🧩 Components & Max Amounts

  • Energy component: Up to $285
  • Property tax component:
    • Non-seniors: up to $998
    • Seniors: up to $1,176
  • Total Credit:
    • Non-seniors: up to $1,283
    • Seniors: up to $1,461

🧮 Funding Phasing

Credit reduces gradually as your adjusted net income rises beyond thresholds. Use CRA’s OTB calculator or OEPTC worksheets.

🗓️ Timelines & Payments

  • File your 2024 return by April 30, 2025 with Form ON-BEN (box 61020).
  • CRA assesses returns by June 19, 2025 to start issuing payments on the 10th of each month (July 2025–June 2026) via OTB, or a lump sum in June 2026.

✅ Pro Tips

  • File even with zero taxable income—you’ll still get the credit.
  • Keep your rent/property tax/energy receipts and proof of residence until CRA completes assessment.
  • If you moved in 2024, the credit is prorated based on the months paid and your residency date.
  • Students in designated residences get $25/property credit per applicable month.

Real-Life Scenario

Meet Sarah (non-senior, 35)

  • Rented a unit in Mississauga, paid $6,000 rent in 2024
  • Adjusted net income: $45,000
  • Heated with electricity on a reserve visit (energy cost claimed)

She applies with Form ON-BEN. She qualifies for the full $285 energy and a prorated property portion (~$700). In July 2025, she starts receiving ~ $80 monthly (combined OEPTC + possible OSTC). Easy to budget!


FAQ

Q: I moved to Ontario mid-year—am I eligible?
A: Yes—if you resided in Ontario on December 31, 2024, and paid eligible amounts. Your credit is prorated.

Q: Are lucky seniors automatically eligible?
A: No—must tick OEPTC box (61020) and file the ON-BEN form on your income return.

Q: What if my total entitlement is under $360?
A: You’ll receive a lump‑sum payment (not monthly installments).


Conclusion

The Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit is a valuable, refundable benefit that can ease the burden of housing-related expenses. Filing the ON-BEN form along with your tax return ensures you get the full credit you’re entitled to—up to $1,461 for seniors. Keep receipts, watch deadlines, and use the CRA’s tools to estimate your benefit.


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Disclaimer

The information contained on this site is for general guidance only and is not to be construed as legal or other professional advice. It should not be used as a substitute for consultation with legal or other competent advisers. Before making any decision or taking any action, you should consult a professional.

Manvir Singh Basra is not responsible for any errors or omissions in connection with the use of this information. All information on this site is provided “as is,” with no guarantee of completeness or accuracy.

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