Rising living costs in Ontario—Canada’s second-most expensive province—are making it tougher for parents to stay financially stable. Fortunately, the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) offers much-needed relief for low- and middle-income families.
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If you’re a parent struggling with expenses, here’s everything you need to know about how to qualify for and maximize your OCB payments.
What is the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB)?
The OCB is a monthly financial aid program administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) on behalf of the Ontario government. It provides direct payments to families to help with the cost of raising children under the age of 18.
Families can receive up to $1,680 per child per year—regardless of their employment status. This benefit is designed to support both working and non-working parents who need financial assistance.
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How to Apply for the OCB
You won’t automatically receive OCB payments—you need to apply first. Here’s how:
- Apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). Since the OCB is processed alongside the CCB, applying for one automatically triggers an assessment for the other.
- Ensure your tax returns are up to date. The CRA uses your tax return to determine eligibility.
- Wait for approval. If you qualify, your OCB payments will be included in your monthly CCB deposit.
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How Much Can You Receive?
- Up to $140 per month ($1,680 per year) per child under 18 years old.
- Families with an adjusted family net income above $25,646 may receive a reduced amount.
- You can use the CRA benefit calculator to estimate your potential payments.
When Will You Receive OCB Payments?
OCB payments are combined with the Canada Child Benefit and are issued on the 20th of each month.
If you’re already enrolled, you should have received your first 2025 payment. If you haven’t applied yet, you still have time to register and receive your February payment.
Don’t Miss Out on Extra Support!
The OCB can provide crucial financial relief for parents navigating the high cost of living in Ontario. Make sure you’re enrolled so you don’t miss out on valuable benefits for your family.
Would you like help checking your eligibility or applying for the OCB? Let me know!
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