Is there a property tax credit or grant for seniors who own their Ontario home?

Ontario has two main supports for senior homeowners that reduce property tax costs. First, the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC) is a refundable credit delivered through the Ontario Trillium Benefit — it offsets a portion of property tax and home energy costs for eligible low-to-moderate income residents. You claim it on your T1 return using Form ON-BEN.

Second, the Ontario Senior Homeowners' Property Tax Grant is a separate annual grant available to seniors who own and occupy their principal residence in Ontario. It provides a grant up to a set maximum to seniors with income below a threshold; the amount phases out at higher incomes. You apply for it on the same Form ON-BEN. Both programs are income-tested, and the amounts are set annually by the province.

The OEPTC and the grant are distinct from the provincial Education Tax Credit. Municipal property tax deferral programs also exist in some Ontario municipalities, allowing seniors to defer property tax increases — check your municipality's website for local programs. None of these require a separate application to the municipality; ON-BEN covers the provincial programs.