April 28, 2009
The Ontario government is working hard to improve the quality of life for low-income families.
That’s why Ontario is proposing to nearly double the Ontario Child Benefit, from $600 to a maximum of $1,100 per child, per year starting this July. The benefit will help 600,000 low-income families and 1.3 million children by giving moms and dads monthly financial support.
Parents don’t need to apply for the Ontario Child Benefit – but they need to file their income taxes to be eligible. They must also:
- Register for the Canada Child Tax Benefit
- Have a child under age 18
- Live in Ontario
The Ontario Child Benefit is a key part of Ontario’s Poverty Reduction Strategy, which strives to reduce child poverty by 25 per cent over 5 years - giving families and children the financial support they need to achieve their full potential.
QUOTES
“Just by filing your income taxes, families can access that extra help so that every child can have the opportunity to succeed in life.”
- David Zimmer, MPP for Willowdale
“We’re giving families some immediate support, which can mean an extra cart of healthy groceries every month or the opportunity for kids to take part in some after-school activities that weren't an option before.”
- Deb Matthews, Minister of Children and Youth Services
QUICK FACTS
- The Ontario Child Benefit is being delivered for the province by the Canada Revenue Agency and appears on the same cheque as the Canada Child Tax Benefit and the National Child Benefit Supplement.
- You and your spouse or common-law partner must file your income tax return
- Families must also register for the Canada Child Tax Benefit.
LEARN MORE
Learn more about the Ontario Child Benefit.
Check the online calculator to see if you are eligible.
Read about Ontario’s poverty reduction strategy.
For more information, contact:
Office of David Zimmer, MPP
(416) 733-7878