The Northern Ontario Energy Credit helps low- to moderate-income individuals 18 years of age and older and families living in Northern Ontario. You can get up to $214 for the 2013-14 benefit year to help with your home energy costs, which are often higher in the north due to more severe winters. If you are single, you can get up to $139. These amounts will be adjusted for inflation each subsequent year.
The Northern Ontario Energy Credit is paid monthly as part of the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB).
In the 2013 Budget, the government proposes to offer OTB recipients a choice between getting their OTB monthly or as a single payment. You would be able to make this choice starting in 2014 on your 2013 tax return. Find out more: The Ontario Trillium Benefit: More Choice for People.
Am I eligible?
You may be eligible for the Northern Ontario Energy Credit for the 2013-14 benefit year if you:
- were a resident in Northern Ontario on December 31, 2012
- are a resident of Northern Ontario at the beginning of the payment month
- had rent or property tax paid by or for you for your principal residence in one of the following districts in Northern Ontario – Algoma, Cochrane, Kenora, Manitoulin, Nipissing, Parry Sound, Rainy River, Sudbury, Thunder Bay or Timiskaming
- are 18 years of age or older, or have or previously had a spouse or common-law partner, or are a parent who lives or previously lived with your child
You may also qualify for the credit if you live in Northern Ontario:
- on a reserve and pay home energy costs, or
- in a public long-term care home and pay accommodation costs.
For more details on eligibility, read our Frequently Asked Questions or visit the Canada Revenue Agency website.
