OESP: the Ontario Electricity Support Program explained (2026)
A monthly credit on your hydro bill if your household income is under the limit. What you can get, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Quick answer
The Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) is a monthly credit on the electricity bills of lower-income households: $35 to $75 a month, or $52 to $113 a month if your home uses electric heat, certain medical devices, or includes an Indigenous household member. A household of 1 qualifies with after-tax income under $38,000, and of 3 or 4 people up to $65,000. Apply at ontarioelectricitysupport.ca or call 1-855-831-8151.
If your electricity bill is hard to keep up with every month, OESP is the first thing to check. It isn't a one-time payment. Once you're approved, the credit comes off your bill every month for two years, or five years if you're 65 or older.
Independent guide. Not affiliated with any program. Canadian Energy Standard is a private, independent company. We are not a government agency, utility or program provider, and we are not affiliated with, endorsed by or acting on behalf of the Government of Ontario, the Ontario Energy Board, the IESO, Save on Energy, Home Renovation Savings, Enbridge Gas, Hydro Ottawa or any other utility, agency or program provider. We can't apply for these programs for you or decide who qualifies. Apply only through the official channels named on this page. Details are as published by those sources on October 18, 2026.
What is OESP?
The Ontario Electricity Support Program is run by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB). It lowers the electricity bills of income-eligible households with a credit that appears directly on your bill. It's available to customers of any Ontario electricity utility, including people in condos and apartments billed by a unit sub-meter provider.
How much OESP pays
- Standard credit: $35 to $75 a month, depending on how many people live in your home and your combined after-tax income. For example, a household of 4 with an after-tax income of $65,000 gets $40 a month.
- Enhanced credit: $52 to $113 a month if your home is heated with electricity, someone uses certain electricity-intensive medical devices, or you're Indigenous or live with an Indigenous family member.
The lower your income and the bigger your household, the larger the credit.
Who qualifies for OESP
You qualify if your household's combined after-tax income is within these limits:
| People in your home | Combined after-tax income |
|---|---|
| 1 | Less than $38,000 |
| 2 | Up to $54,000 |
| 3 or 4 | Up to $65,000 |
| 5 to 7 | Up to $71,000 |
You must apply. The credit isn't added automatically, even if you're on Ontario Works or ODSP.
How to apply for OESP
- Gather what you need. A recent electricity bill, the names and birthdates of everyone in the household as registered with the Canada Revenue Agency, and the SIN or temporary tax number of everyone 18 or older.
- Apply. Online at ontarioelectricitysupport.ca (the fastest way), by mail with a form you download or request by calling 1-855-831-8151, or with free help from a local intake agency.
- Sign the consent form. It lets the CRA confirm your income. Your application isn't complete without it.
- Wait for a decision. Usually 4 to 6 weeks. Once approved, the credit shows on your bill within about 6 to 8 weeks.
Approval lasts 2 years, or 5 years if you're 65 or older or receive a CPP disability pension. Then you reapply.
Already behind on your bill?
OESP lowers future bills, but it doesn't clear what you already owe. If you're behind and worried about disconnection, apply for LEAP emergency assistance as well. OESP customers also get extra protections from their utility, including longer arrears payment plans and no security deposit if you ask for it to be waived.
Other ways to lower your bill
- Households that received OESP in the past 12 months can qualify for free upgrades through the Save on Energy Energy Affordability Program.
- Everyone on a regulated price plan already gets the Ontario Electricity Rebate on their bill.
- Choosing the right electricity price plan can help if you can move use to evenings, weekends or overnight.
See all the options in Ontario energy rebate and bill support programs.
Frequently asked questions
How much is OESP per month?
$35 to $75 a month for most eligible households, or $52 to $113 a month for homes with electric heating, certain medical devices, or an Indigenous household member.
What is the income limit for OESP?
Combined after-tax household income under $38,000 for 1 person, up to $54,000 for 2, up to $65,000 for 3 or 4, and up to $71,000 for 5 to 7 people.
How do I apply for OESP?
Apply online at ontarioelectricitysupport.ca, by mail, or with help from a local intake agency. Call 1-855-831-8151 for help or a paper form.
How long does OESP last?
Two years, or five years if you're 65 or older or receive a CPP disability pension. Then you reapply.
Does OESP help with natural gas bills?
No. OESP is for electricity bills only. Natural gas customers who are behind on their bill can apply for LEAP emergency assistance.
Can renters get OESP?
Yes. If you pay an electricity bill, including through a unit sub-meter provider in a condo or apartment, you can apply.
Is Canadian Energy Standard part of OESP or the Ontario Energy Board?
No. Canadian Energy Standard is a private, independent company. It is not a government agency, utility or program provider, and it is not affiliated with, endorsed by or acting on behalf of OESP or the Ontario Energy Board. To apply, use ontarioelectricitysupport.ca.
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