The Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB) remains a critical financial pillar for low-income households across the province, providing a portable subsidy that travels with the recipient rather than being tied to a specific unit.
As we move into 2026, understanding the exact mechanics of how this benefit is calculated is essential for ensuring you receive your full entitlement. Unlike traditional Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) assistance, the COHB allows for greater flexibility in housing choices within the private rental market.
Also Read
The Core 2026 COHB Calculation Formula
The Ministry of Finance determines your monthly COHB payment based on a specific formula that balances your income against local market conditions. For the 2026 benefit year, the standard calculation remains focused on the gap between your financial capacity and the Average Market Rent (AMR) as reported by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
The general formula used for most households is:
Monthly Benefit = (80% of Local AMR) – (30% of Adjusted Family Net Income ÷ 12)
For residents currently receiving social assistance, such as Ontario Works (OW) or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), the calculation follows a different structure. In these cases, the COHB typically covers the difference between your actual rent and utility costs and the shelter allowance provided by your social assistance program. It is important to note that the total of your COHB and shelter allowance cannot exceed your actual housing costs.
Key Factors Influencing Your Payment
- Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI): This is based on line 23600 of your previous year’s tax Return. For 2026 payments, the Ministry primarily looks at your 2025 Notice of Assessment.
- Local AMR: This value varies significantly by region. For instance, the AMR in Toronto is considerably higher than in smaller municipalities like Cornwall or Sudbury.
- Household Composition: The number of bedrooms you are eligible for—determined by the size of your family—caps the AMR used in your calculation, regardless of the actual size of the unit you rent.
2026 Eligibility and Asset Limits
To remain eligible for the COHB in 2026, households must meet strict criteria set by the provincial government. This program is referral-based and generally targeted toward vulnerable priority groups, including survivors of domestic violence, those experiencing homelessness, seniors, and Indigenous persons.
Current financial requirements include a liquid asset limit. In many service areas, household assets such as cash and investments must not exceed $50,000 for single individuals or $75,000 for couples and families. Additionally, recipients must be on—or eligible to be on—a Centralized Waiting List for social housing and must agree to be removed from that list upon accepting the COHB.
Mandatory Annual Renewals and Deadlines
Your COHB amount is not permanent; it is reassessed annually to reflect changes in your income or local rent prices. The Ministry of Finance typically issues annual renewal packages in May. To avoid a disruption in payments, these forms must be completed and returned by the September 1st deadline.
Failure to submit your renewal on time can lead to a suspension of benefits. If your income has decreased by 20% or more during the year, you may also request an in-year reassessment to increase your monthly benefit amount.
2026 COHB Payment Schedule
Payments are generally issued on the last business day of each month. For 2026, the anticipated schedule for the first half of the year is as follows:
- January: Friday, January 30, 2026
- February: Friday, February 27, 2026
- March: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
- April: Thursday, April 30, 2026
- May: Friday, May 29, 2026
- June: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
To ensure you are receiving the full amount, regularly update your contact and banking information through ServiceOntario or the Ministry of Finance. If your calculated benefit is less than $10, you will not receive a monthly payment, and remaining at a “nil” benefit for 24 consecutive months may result in removal from the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the COHB different from RGI housing?
COHB is a portable benefit paid directly to you for use in any private rental unit in Ontario, whereas RGI is a subsidy tied to a specific social housing unit where rent is fixed at 30% of your income.
What should I do if my 2026 COHB payment is lower than expected?
Review your most recent Notice of Assessment and compare it with the local AMR. If your income has dropped significantly since your last tax filing, contact the Ministry of Finance at 1-888-544-5101 to request a reassessment.
Can I receive the COHB if I move to a different city in Ontario?
Yes, the COHB is portable. However, your benefit amount may be recalculated based on the Average Market Rent of your new location, which could result in an increase or decrease in your monthly payment.
Ben Lee is a content writer specializing in government schemes and public benefit programs, delivering clear and up-to-date information to help readers understand eligibility, payments, and policy changes.