High inflation and interest rates are making it difficult for Canadians to afford basic needs. This is particularly true in Ontario, where some of the most expensive cities are located. Thankfully, there are non-profit and government support programs available to Ontarians to save money. One of the many programs low-income families in Ontario can save money is through the Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP).
What Is The Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP)?
The Ontario Electricity Support Program decreases electricity bills for lower-income households by offering a credit to eligible customers monthly electric bills. Eligible customers will have the OESP credits applied directly to their bills.
The amount credited depends on the customer’s household income and household size.
Who’s Eligible For The Ontario Electricity Support Program?
To be eligible for the OESP, you must have an account with an electricity distributor or unit sub-meter provider.
You must also meet the after-tax income requirements to be eligible.
| Household Size | After-Tax Household Income Limits |
| 1 | $38,000 |
| 2 | $54,000 |
| 3 – 4 | $65,000 |
| 5+ | $71,000 |
If you do not meet the income requirements above but have an income that is close to the limits, it is recommended that you still apply. The Ontario Energy Board will ultimately decide if you’re eligible or not.
How Much Will The Ontario Electricity Support Program Cover?
Credits range from $40 to $75 per month depending on the size of the family in the household and the household’s income.
OSEP Max Payments Based On Household Size And Income (After-tax)
| $38,000 or less | $38,001 – $54,000 | $54,001 – $65,000 | $65,001 – $71,000 | |
| 1 | $45 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| 2 | $45 | $40 | $0 | $0 |
| 3 | $51 | $45 | $35 | $0 |
| 4 | $57 | $51 | $40 | $0 |
| 5 | $63 | $57 | $45 | $35 |
| 6 | $75 | $63 | $51 | $40 |
| 7 | $75 | $75 | $57 | $45 |
Extra Assitance
You may be eligible for higher amounts if the need to use more power is unavoidable. Homes that are electrically heated and those that rely on medical devices that use a lot of electricity can qualify for higher OESP credits. Those eligible for this extra assistance can get between $52 to $113 depending on income and household size.
How Do I Apply For The Ontario Electricity Support Program?
Eligible customers of an electricity utility can apply for The Ontario Electricity Support Program online. The application must be completed online. Then submit the application online by filling out an electronic consent form. Or, print a paper consent form and mail it to:
| Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) PO Box 1540 STN B Ottawa, ON, K1P 0C7 |
Anyone who cannot apply online can print the application and mail it, with their paper content form, to the address above.
Customers will need to re-apply for the Ontario Electricity Support Program either every two years or when their conditions change, including changes to their income or members of their household, as well as if they move addresses.
Documents And Information Required To Apply
To apply for OESP, be sure that you’re prepared with the following information:
- Electrical Bill Information: Electricity bill account number, account holder and service address.
- Personal Information: All household member names and birthdates.
- Financial Information: All household member’s SINs or Temporary Tax Numbers.
Approval Process
The approval process takes approximately six to eight weeks. All required information must be provided for your application to be processed.
Applicants are required to fill out the application and the consent form, which is made available on the Ontario Energy Board’s website. Both documents can either be submitted digitally or printed and mailed.
After your application is submitted, your household income will be verified by the Ministry of Finance through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), who will use the Social Insurance Numbers of all income tax filers in the household.
Once your application is processed and approved, your credits will be added to your energy bill.
Other Energy Assistance Programs In Ontario
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP)
Through the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP), low-income families in Ontario can receive as much as $650 to put toward an outstanding electricity bill. Or, as much as $780 if they use electricity to heat their home.
Income requirements for LEAP are as follows:
| Household Size | Income Limits |
| 1 to 7 | $38,000 or less |
| 3 to 7 | $38,001 and $54,000 |
| 5 to 7 | $54,001 and $65,000 |
| 7 | $65,001 and $71,000 |
Energy Affordability Program (EAP)
LEAP is available to customers using the Ontario Electricity Support Program, providing another way to save on your energy bills. This program offers a variety of energy-efficient improvements to your home. Upgrades that are offered include Smart power bars, LED lightbulbs, draft proofing and insulation for homes that are electrically heated, as well as the replacement of older models of refrigerators, freezers and window air conditioners
Home Winterproofing Program
Customers who are recipients of the Ontario Electricity Support Program and are customers of Enbridge Gas can obtain free energy-efficient upgrades. This can include draft proofing, insulation and a smart thermostat. Interested customers can visit Enbridge Gas’ Home Winterproofing Program for more information.
Final Thoughts
With the cost of living increasing, it’s important to save where you can. The Ontario Electricity Support Program offers a way for low-income families to save on their energy bills. If you qualify, sign up now to start saving as soon as possible.
