The Ontario Child Benefit: Your Questions Answered

Mark Virgil Lofranco • 4 October 2024

The Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) provides essential financial assistance to low- and moderate-income families in Ontario to help cover the costs of raising children. If you're navigating the financial responsibilities of parenthood, the OCB offers support with monthly payments to ease the burden.


Let’s dive into the details so you can maximize your benefits.

What Is the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB)?


The OCB is a tax-free benefit aimed at families with children under 18 who need financial assistance. It’s designed to help with everyday expenses, whether you're working full-time, part-time, or not at all. Payments are based on your previous year’s tax return, so filing your taxes on time is crucial to ensuring you receive the benefit.


Who Qualifies for the OCB?


Families with children under 18 living in Ontario may qualify for the OCB. To be eligible, your net family income must fall under certain thresholds. For 2024, families earning less than $24,542 are eligible for the full benefit. As your income increases above this threshold, the benefit amount decreases.


How Much Can You Receive?


In 2024, the OCB pays up to $1,606.92 per year or $133.91 per month per eligible child. Additionally, families may also receive the federal Canada Child Benefit (CCB), which provides up to $619.75 per month for children under six and $522.91 per month for children ages 6 to 17. OCB and CCB payments are combined and distributed together.


How to Apply for the OCB


You don’t need to apply separately for the OCB. When you apply for the CCB through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), your eligibility for the OCB is automatically assessed. To apply, you can:


  • Use the CRA My Account portal.
  • Submit an application by mail via Form RC66 or RC66SCH.

If you’ve already registered your child’s birth, you may be automatically enrolled in the program.


Payment Dates for the Ontario Child Benefit


OCB payments are distributed on the same dates as the CCB. For 2024, these dates include:


  • January 19, 2024
  • February 20, 2024
  • March 20, 2024
  • April 19, 2024
  • May 17, 2024
  • June 20, 2024
  • July 19, 2024
  • August 20, 2024
  • September 20, 2024
  • October 18, 2024
  • November 20, 2024
  • December 13, 2024


Don’t Forget to File Your Tax Return!


To receive the OCB, you must file your tax return every year, even if you have no income. The CRA uses the information from your return to determine your eligibility and payment amount. Make sure to file on time to avoid any delays in receiving this crucial benefit.

For families dealing with the financial pressures of raising children, the OCB can make a real difference. Stay on top of your taxes and take full advantage of this helpful support.


Key Takeaways


  • Monthly Support: Families may receive up to $133.91 per child each month in 2024.
  • Automatic Eligibility: You are assessed for OCB when applying for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
  • Income-Dependent: Payment amounts are based on family income and the number of children.

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