The Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) offers vital assistance to lower-income households by reducing their electricity bills. Administered by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB), this program provides direct monthly credits to eligible customers, helping to ease financial pressures while ensuring access to essential electricity services.
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How Does the OESP Work?
The OESP reduces electricity costs by applying credits directly to eligible households’ electricity bills. These credits are tailored to the household’s size and income, ensuring that support reaches those who need it the most.
Key Features:
- Monthly Credits: Recipients benefit from ongoing financial support applied directly to their utility bills.
- Two-Year Coverage: Once approved, credits remain in place for two years, regardless of when the application is processed.
Eligibility and Application Process
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility is determined by household income and size. Applicants will need to provide accurate details and supporting documents to verify their eligibility.
When Can You Apply?
Applications are open year-round, with no deadline. The earlier you apply, the sooner you can begin receiving credits.
How to Apply?
- Complete an online application or seek assistance from a local intake agency.
- Provide necessary documentation, including proof of income.
- Submit a signed consent form, if required.
When Will Credits Begin?
- Applications take approximately 6 to 8 weeks to process.
- Credits appear on bills as soon as the application is approved and all required information is submitted.
Standard Monthly OESP Credit Amounts
The standard credit varies depending on household income and size:
| Household Income (After Tax) | 1 Person | 2 People | 3 People | 4 People | 5 People | 6 People | 7+ People |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,000 or less | $45 | $45 | $51 | $57 | $63 | $75 | $75 |
| $38,001 – $54,000 | $40 | $45 | $51 | $57 | $63 | $75 | |
| $54,001 – $65,000 | $35 | $40 | $45 | $51 | $57 | ||
| $65,001 – $71,000 | $35 | $40 | $45 |
Higher Credits for Energy-Intensive Households
Households requiring additional power due to electric heating or essential medical devices qualify for enhanced credits:
| Household Income (After Tax) | 1 Person | 2 People | 3 People | 4 People | 5 People | 6 People | 7+ People |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,000 or less | $68 | $68 | $75 | $83 | $90 | $113 | $113 |
| $38,001 – $54,000 | $60 | $68 | $75 | $83 | $90 | $113 | |
| $54,001 – $65,000 | $52 | $60 | $68 | $75 | $83 | ||
| $65,001 – $71,000 | $52 | $60 | $68 |
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Need Immediate Assistance?
If you require financial help before your OESP credits are applied, contact your electricity provider or visit the Ontario Energy Board’s website for information on additional low-income programs.
Contact the OESP Contact Centre
For any questions or assistance, the OESP Contact Centre is available via:
- Email: [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET
The OESP is a lifeline for many Ontarians, ensuring that financial hardship doesn’t come between families and their essential electricity needs. If you qualify, don’t wait—apply today to start saving.
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