Toronto Vacant Home Tax: What You Need to Know About Filing Your Declaration
The City of Toronto has implemented the Vacant Home Tax (VHT) to encourage property owners to occupy or rent out their residential properties, thereby increasing housing availability. All residential property owners are required to declare their property’s occupancy status annually, even if the property is their principal residence.
Key Details:
Declaration Period: November 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025.
Tax Rate: For the 2024 taxation year, the VHT rate has increased from 1% to 3% of the property’s assessed value.
How to Declare:
Online: Access the updated portal at toronto.ca/VacantHomeTax.
Phone: Call 311 within Toronto or 416-392-2489 from outside the city.
In-Person: Visit a Tax and Utility counter at Toronto City Hall or any civic centre.
Why Timely Declaration Matters:
Failing to declare by the April 30, 2025, deadline will result in your property being deemed vacant, subjecting you to the 3% tax on its assessed value. This tax is part of Toronto’s efforts to address the housing crisis by encouraging the use of vacant properties.
Exemptions:
Certain exemptions apply, such as properties undergoing major renovations or those where the principal resident is in care. For a comprehensive list of exemptions and required documentation, visit the City of Toronto’s official page.
Stay Informed:
For the latest updates and detailed information, refer to the City of Toronto’s news release.
