Ontario families can look forward to financial support in January 2025 through the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB). This tax-free monthly payment provides up to $140 per child to help with essential expenses like food, education, and extracurricular activities.
If you’re wondering how to qualify, apply, and ensure you receive your payment on time, here’s everything you need to know.
Ontario $140/Month Child Benefit
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Benefit | Up to $140 per month per child |
| Eligibility | Ontario residents, primary caregivers, and CCB eligible |
| Payment Date | January 20, 2025 |
| Application | Through the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) application |
| Income Threshold | Full benefit for incomes <$25,646, reduced for higher incomes |
| Source | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
The OCB works alongside the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), meaning families apply for both through a single system, simplifying the process.
Eligibility
To qualify for the $140 monthly benefit, families must meet these conditions:
Ontario Residency
You must live in Ontario to be eligible.
Primary Caregiver
You must be the primary caregiver of a child under 18 years old.
CCB Eligibility
Since the OCB is linked to the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), you must:
- Be a tax resident of Canada
- Have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Meet the CCB eligibility requirements
Income Threshold
- Families earning less than $25,646 receive the full $140 per child.
- For higher-income families, the benefit gradually reduces as income increases.
Tax Filing Requirement
Both you and your spouse (if applicable) must file an annual tax return, even if you have no income.
How to Apply
New Parents
If you’re a new parent, you can apply for the OCB through the Newborn Registration Service. This allows you to:
- Register your child’s birth
- Apply for the CCB and OCB at the same time
Existing Parents
If you already have children and haven’t applied yet:
- Log in to your CRA My Account.
- Complete the CCB Application Form (RC66).
- The CRA will automatically assess your eligibility for OCB.
Payment Schedule
The Ontario Child Benefit is paid monthly along with the Canada Child Benefit. The next payment date is January 20, 2025.
Payment Methods
- Direct deposit (fast and secure)
- Cheque (slower and less reliable)
To avoid delays, set up direct deposit through the CRA portal.
Benefit Amount
The maximum benefit is $140 per child per month. However, payments depend on your household income:
| Household Income | Monthly Benefit (Per Child) |
|---|---|
| <$25,646 | Full $140 |
| $30,000 | Reduced benefit (estimated) |
To estimate your payment, use the CRA Child and Family Benefits Calculator.
Importance of Filing Taxes
The CRA uses your tax return to:
- Verify eligibility
- Calculate your benefit amount
If you miss the tax filing deadline, your payments may be delayed. To avoid this:
- File your taxes on time
- Update CRA about life changes (new job, marital status, additional children)
The Ontario Child Benefit provides essential financial support for families. By understanding eligibility, applying correctly, and keeping your tax information up to date, you can secure your full benefit and avoid any payment disruptions.
