Your Ontario Tax Credits and Benefits
You and your family could get money back by claiming a number of Ontario tax credits and benefits.
Below you'll find out more about some of these credits.
Your Ontario Trillium Benefit
Beginning in July 2012, your Ontario Trillium Benefit will be paid in 12 instalments. That means you're getting your money sooner and more frequently to help you manage your monthly bills.
For You and Your Family
Ontario Children's Activity Tax Credit
If you have children, you can claim up to $509 in eligible expenses for activities, like painting classes, hockey, soccer and music lessons. See if you qualify.
Ontario Child Benefit
Your family could get back up to $91.66 per child, per month or $1,100 per year for children under 18.
For Household Expenses
Starting July 2012, the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) will combine the payments of three tax credits into one convenient monthly payment so you get your benefits when you need them.
View the benefit payment schedule for more information.
Ontario Sales Tax Credit
You could get up to $273 back. Families can get up to $273 for each family member.
Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit
If you pay rent or property tax, you can get up to $946 to help with the sales tax on energy costs and property taxes. Seniors could get up to $1,078.
Northern Ontario Energy Credit
If you live in the North, you can get up to $137 for single people and $210 for families to help with higher home heating costs.
Senior Homeowners' Property Tax Grant
If you are 64 or older and own a home, you could get up to $500 to help with the cost of property taxes.
More Tax Credits Available
For Individuals
The full list of tax credits and benefits that can help you and your family lower the tax you pay or get money back.
For Businesses
Tax credits that can help your business lower costs, hire/train workers and compete in the marketplace.
Income Tax 101
Where can I get a 2011 tax return form?
If you filed online last year, you will receive an access code to make it easy to file online again this year.
You can also get tax forms at postal outlets, by calling 1 800 959-2221 or you can download them from the Canada Revenue Agency website.
Where can I get more information about filing a personal income tax return?
Visit the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website to view information about how to get, complete, and send in your tax return, including payments, refunds and more.
If you earned less than $25,000 last year there are many free CRA-approved tax software programs you can use.
How do I apply for direct deposit of my benefit payments?
Asking for direct deposit means you will receive your money on time, directly in your account at a Canadian financial institution. Visit the Canada Revenue Agency website for details on how to apply for direct deposit.
Where can I get help with my personal income tax return?
The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) helps eligible individuals who are not able to complete their income tax and benefit returns by themselves. For more information visit cra.gc.ca/volunteer.
How long should I keep my tax records?
You should keep your supporting documents for six years.
Have the receipts and documentation to support your claims ready in case you are selected for review.
You can get more information on the Canada Revenue Agency website.
