The Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) is a critical financial assistance program designed to support low-income families in Ontario.
Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the OCB provides up to $140 per month per child, offering much-needed relief for essential child-rearing expenses.
These payments are non-taxable and are automatically combined with the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) for eligible families.
For the 2025 payment period, spanning July 2024 to June 2025, the OCB continues to play a vital role in addressing child poverty and helping families meet their needs.
Below, we break down the eligibility criteria, payment schedule, and application process for the Ontario Child Benefit 2025.
What Is the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB)?
The Ontario Child Benefit is a monthly payment funded by the Ontario government to assist families with children under the age of 18.
It is specifically designed for low-income households and provides additional financial security to support child care, education, and general expenses.
The benefit is automatically calculated based on the information provided in your income tax returns and is issued along with the Canada Child Benefit.
Eligibility for the Ontario Child Benefit 2025
To qualify for the OCB in 2025, families must meet the following criteria:
- Residency in Ontario:
- The caregiver and the child must be permanent residents of Ontario.
- The applicant must also be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or legally recognized refugee.
- Age of the Child:
- The child must be under the age of 18.
- Filing Income Tax Returns:
- The applicant must file their income tax returns annually to be eligible for the payment.
- Income Threshold:
- The annual net family income must be below $25,646 to qualify for the maximum benefit.
- Marital Status and Dependency:
- Applicants must be responsible for raising the child and may have a spouse or common-law partner living with them.
How to Claim the $140 Per Month Ontario Child Benefit in 2025
Eligible families can follow these steps to claim the OCB:
- Automatic Enrollment:
- Families already receiving the Canada Child Benefit are automatically eligible for the Ontario Child Benefit. No separate application is required.
- Update Information:
- Ensure all personal and banking information is updated with the CRA to avoid payment delays.
- File all outstanding income tax returns to maintain eligibility.
- Verification Process:
- The CRA will assess eligibility using the information provided in your income tax return and other documentation.
Ontario Child Benefit Payment Dates for 2025
The OCB payments are issued monthly on the following dates in 2025:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 20th |
| February 2025 | 20th |
| March 2025 | 20th |
| April 2025 | 17th |
| May 2025 | 20th |
| June 2025 | 20th |
| July 2025 | 18th |
| August 2025 | 20th |
| September 2025 | 19th |
| October 2025 | 20th |
| November 2025 | 20th |
| December 2025 | 12th |
The $140 Per Month Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) for 2025 is a crucial lifeline for many low-income families in Ontario. By addressing the financial challenges of raising children, the OCB ensures that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment.
Families should stay updated with the CRA for the latest information and ensure all eligibility requirements are met to benefit from this essential program.
FAQs
1. How is the OCB amount calculated?
The OCB amount is calculated based on the number of children, their ages, and the family’s net income. Families earning less than $25,646 annually qualify for the maximum benefit of $140 per child per month.
2. What should I do if I don’t receive my OCB payment on the scheduled date?
If your payment is delayed, ensure your personal and banking details with the CRA are accurate. Contact the CRA for assistance if the issue persists.
3. Can I claim the OCB if I missed filing my tax returns?
No, filing your annual tax returns is mandatory to qualify for the Ontario Child Benefit. Ensure all past returns are submitted to regain eligibility.
