Toronto homeowners could face a hefty tax if they miss this deadline

If you own a home in Toronto, there's an important annual deadline coming up that you won't want to overlook, especially since missing it could come with a hefty price tag.

The City of Toronto has officially opened its online portal for homeowners to submit their 2026 Vacant Home Tax (VHT) declarations, which can be made until Friday, April 30, 2027.

The tax was introduced as a way to encourage homeowners in Toronto to rent or sell their residential properties that would otherwise sit empty, with the aim of increasing the availability of housing across the city.

What is Toronto's Vacant Home Tax?

The VHT applies to residential properties that have been unoccupied for six or more months during the previous calendar year, unless they qualify for an exemption.

For the 2026 taxation year, the tax rate is three per cent of a property's Current Value Assessment, as determined by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).

Even if you live in your home full-time, you'll still need to submit an annual declaration, as missing the April 30 deadline could mean your property will be deemed vacant and charges will apply accordingly.

How to submit your declaration

There are a few ways to submit your declaration, including submitting it online through the City's VHT portal, calling 311, or visiting a Tax and Utility Payment Counter at Toronto City Hall or any civic centre.

To successfully make your declaration, you'll need your customer number and the address or 21-digit assessment roll number, which can be found on your property tax bill, property tax account statement, or VHT notice.

If you submit your declaration online, you'll receive a confirmation number, and if you provide an email address, you'll also receive confirmation by email. Declarations made over the phone or in-person will also be confirmed with a receipt.

Which properties are exempt from the tax?

Not every vacant property will automatically be subject to the tax, as the City has noted several exemptions for properties that have been left empty due to certain circumstances.

Exemptions include the death of a registered owner, the principal resident receiving care, major repairs or renovations, a court order, or a transfer of legal ownership. Even if your property qualifies for one of these exemptions, you'll still need to submit a declaration.

You can also be away from your principal address for extended periods of time due to travel and still declare your property as occupied.