Child Benefit Ontario Amount For These Canadians In 2024: Know Eligibility & More Details

The Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) is a crucial support system for low- to moderate-income families living in Ontario. If you’re raising children under 18 and earning within a certain income bracket, the OCB can offer financial relief.

The program, run by the Ontario government and administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), is designed to help with the cost of raising children. This article will explain the amount, payment dates, eligibility, and contact information for OCB in 2024.

Child Benefit Ontario Amount

The OCB provides financial aid to eligible families based on their net income and the number of children under 18 in their care.

For 2024, families can receive up to $1,607 per child per year, which breaks down to about $133.91 per month. This benefit is paid monthly, tax-free, and typically combined with the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) into a single payment.

The amount a family receives depends on their income. Families with an Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI) of $24,542 or less qualify for the maximum amount. However, even if your AFNI is slightly above this threshold, you may still qualify for partial benefits.

Payment

The OCB payments are distributed on the same schedule as the CCB, which means families receive both payments together. Here are the upcoming payment dates for OCB in 2024:

• October 20
• November 20
• December 13

If you’re receiving the payment by cheque, it may take a little longer to arrive than direct deposit payments. For updates or confirmation, you can check your payment schedule through CRA’s My Account service.

Eligibility

To qualify for OCB in 2024, you must meet several eligibility criteria:

• Residency: You must live in Ontario.
• Primary caregiver: You must be the main person responsible for the care and upbringing of the child.
• Income tax filing: You must have filed your income tax return.
• CCB registration: Your children must be registered for the CCB.

It’s important to file your taxes to remain eligible for both the OCB and CCB. You must also keep your information updated with the CRA, such as changes in address or family circumstances, to ensure uninterrupted payments.

How to Apply

The good news is that you don’t have to submit a separate application for the OCB. By applying for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), you are automatically considered for the OCB. To apply for the CCB, you can either:

• Submit an application through your CRA My Account
• Mail a completed application form to the CRA

Once approved, you’ll receive both CCB and OCB payments as a single combined amount each month. It’s essential to meet the eligibility requirements of both programs to maximize your benefits.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns about your OCB payments, eligibility, or application status, you can contact the CRA directly. Here’s the contact information for the OCB:

• Toll-Free Number: 1-800-387-1193
• Teletypewriter (TTY): 1-800-665-0354

For quick answers to common issues, you can also check the Government of Canada’s website or log in to your CRA My Account.

It’s essential to stay informed about any changes in the program, including updates on payment dates or adjustments to the benefit amount. Whether you need assistance or clarification, the CRA can help address your concerns and provide guidance.

Supporting your family with the OCB can make a meaningful difference, especially with the rising cost of living.

Be sure to maintain your eligibility by filing your taxes and keeping your details up to date, so you can continue to receive this important financial assistance.

FAQs