About the benefit

Low-income to moderate-income families can get up to $1,727 per child each year through the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB).

The Ontario Child Benefit supports about 1 million children in over 500,000 families.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) administers the Ontario Child Benefit on behalf of Ontario.

How to apply

To get the Ontario Child Benefit, you must apply for the Canada Child Benefit through the Canada Revenue Agency.

When you apply for the Canada Child Benefit, you are automatically assessed for the Ontario Child Benefit — there is no separate application.

You must file your taxes every year to qualify even if you have no income to declare.

Monthly payments

The Ontario Child Benefit provides up to $1,727 per child per year depending on:

  • your family net income
  • the number of children in your care who are under 18 years old

If you are eligible, you will get a payment every month.

The Canada Revenue Agency determines your monthly payments. The amount you receive depends on your adjusted family net income on your annual income tax return.

Use the CRA benefit calculator to find out how much you may receive.

Contact the Canada Revenue Agency

If you have a question about the Ontario Child Benefit, contact the Canada Revenue Agency by phone at:

Other benefits and support for families

Find benefits and programs

Learn about support programs that you may be eligible for, to help with costs for:

  • post-secondary education
  • skills training
  • dental care
  • housing
  • health services
  • child care
  • prescription drugs

Personal income tax

File your income tax, get the income tax and benefit package and check the status of your tax refund.

Find a free tax clinic

The CRA usually offers volunteer tax preparation clinics between February and April, but many operate all year in locations across Canada.

Income and employment support

Ontario has two social assistance programs to help eligible residents who are in financial need.

Ontario Works helps people who are in temporary financial need.

Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) helps people who have disabilities.

Both programs offer income support and help finding a job.