Maximize Your Benefits: Join Partners for Planning in Ontario's Housing Program!

Stay updated on new resources by subscribing to our mailing list.The Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB) is a state-driven funding initiative that provides financial aid to low-income households struggling with housing expenses in Ontario. This program's administration is overseen by the Province of Ontario, while the benefit amount is assessed annually.

Eligible households can receive a fixed sum of money each month to cover rent costs anywhere in Ontario. Although the COHB is administered province-wide, it is only accessible to qualifying priority groups on the Centralized Waiting List. If you are in search of assistance, contacting your local Housing Access department is an excellent place to start. They can provide you with information concerning the centralized waitlist.

The COHB amount you receive is determined by a combination of your household's total income and average market rental rates in your area. In contrast to social housing, this benefit is not linked to a specific unit but is portable, making it more convenient if you move. The benefit size may change to reflect the current average market rent in your new vicinity. Furthermore, housing in social housing is not necessary to qualify for COHB.

To meet the eligibility criteria for COHB, you must maintain permanent residency in Ontario and place yourself on the Centralized Waiting List for social housing or be determined eligible for that registry. The following priority groups have preference:

• Survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking
• Indigenous persons
• Persons requiring adaptive housing for disabilities
• Households on Centralized Waiting List with the earliest application dates

The final COHB amount a household receives depends on its unique income and size. The calculation involves determining the difference between 30% of their income and 80% of the average local market rental rates. For example, if your monthly income is $1,500, 30% of that value is $450, and if the average local market rent is $1,000, 80% gives 0. Deducting 0 by $450 means your family will receive a COHB benefit of $350 for that month.

To apply for COHB, kindly contact the Housing Services department in your respective city area. For a quick search, try using the keywords "Portable Housing Subsidy (Your City or Region)" online. Alternatively, click on the link below to check with your local Service Manager.

Rest assured, Ontario's Ministry of Finance will promptly notify you if your application is approved. Your benefit amount will be reviewed annually, and any changes to your income or location may affect it. If your income reduces by over 20%, you may request a review midway through a fiscal year.

For any queries about your application and benefit amount, please call Ontario’s Ministry of Finance at:

• - 1 866 668-8297
• - 1 800 263-7776 (TTY)

Please note that the COHB program is to terminate on March 31, 2029. Keep yourself informed and secured!