The Portable Housing Benefit, often delivered through regional programs like the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB) or the Canada-BC Housing Benefit, remains a vital resource for low-income tenants across the country. These benefits are “portable,” meaning the assistance follows the individual even if they move to a different rental unit within the province.
For 2026, the federal and provincial governments have aligned payment schedules to ensure consistent support for housing stability. Most payments are issued in the final week of each month or on specific dates managed by provincial ministries.
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2026 Benefit Payment Dates by Province
While the program is co-funded by the federal government under the National Housing Strategy, specific delivery dates are managed at the provincial level. Below is the anticipated schedule for the primary portable housing benefit streams in 2026.
Ontario: Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB)
In Ontario, the Ministry of Finance typically issues payments on the last business day of the month. Recipients are encouraged to use direct deposit to avoid mail delays.
- 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
- July: Friday, July 31, 2026
- August: Monday, August 31, 2026
- September: Wednesday, September 30, 2026
- October: Friday, October 30, 2026
- November: Monday, November 30, 2026
- December: Thursday, December 24, 2026 (Early for holidays)
British Columbia: BC Family & Housing Benefits
British Columbia often synchronizes housing-related supplements with the general social assistance calendar. Payments are usually released on the third-to-last business day.
- January 21, 2026 (for February)
- February 25, 2026 (for March)
- March 25, 2026 (for April)
- April 22, 2026 (for May)
- May 27, 2026 (for June)
- June 24, 2026 (for July)
- July 29, 2026 (for August)
- August 26, 2026 (for September)
- September 23, 2026 (for October)
- October 21, 2026 (for November)
- November 18, 2026 (for December)
- December 16, 2026 (for January 2027)
Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan Housing Benefit (SHB)
The SHB follows the Ministry of Social Services schedule. Direct deposits are usually made one day after cheques are mailed.
- January 29, 2026
- February 26, 2026
- March 30, 2026
- April 29, 2026
- May 28, 2026
- June 29, 2026
- July 29, 2026
- August 28, 2026
- September 29, 2026
- October 29, 2026
- November 27, 2026
- December 30, 2026
New Indexation and Payment Increases for 2026
Starting in 2026, many federal-provincial housing benefits will see a slight adjustment due to annual indexation. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has noted an indexation increase of approximately 2% for several tax-related credits, which often indirectly affects the income thresholds for housing benefit eligibility.
Furthermore, some provinces may review the Average Market Rent (AMR) data in the second quarter of 2026, which could lead to adjustments in the monthly subsidy amount for active recipients.
Important Renewal Deadlines
To maintain eligibility for the Portable Housing Benefit in 2026, most recipients must complete an annual renewal. In jurisdictions like Ontario, the deadline is typically September 1. Failure to submit the renewal application by this date can result in the permanent termination of the benefit.
Recipients should ensure their 2025 tax returns are filed on time, as the Canada Housing Benefit calculations rely heavily on verified Net Income from the previous tax year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a payment date falls on a weekend or holiday?
If the scheduled date is a Saturday, Sunday, or statutory holiday, the payment is typically issued on the last preceding business day.
Is the Portable Housing Benefit taxable income?
No, most portable housing benefits and rent supplements provided under the National Housing Strategy are tax-free.
Can I receive the Portable Housing Benefit and RGI at the same time?
No, households cannot receive a portable housing benefit while living in Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) housing or receiving other social housing subsidies.
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.