Subsidized Housing, COHB & Moving Between Municipalities

Navigating Housing Subsidies on ODSP

Finding affordable housing is a top priority for ODSP recipients. Understanding how provincial housing subsidies interact with your ODSP check helps prevent overpayments and unexpected payment reductions.

1. Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) Housing

In RGI housing, rent is set at approximately 30% of household income (or based on social assistance scale tables).

• When living in RGI housing, your ODSP shelter allowance is calculated based on your actual RGI rent.
• Because RGI rent is lowered to match your income, your basic needs allowance remains fully intact.

2. Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB)

The Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB) is a direct, portable monthly housing subsidy paid to low-income households:

• Portable: Unlike RGI units tied to a specific building, COHB moves with you anywhere in Ontario!
• ODSP Exemption: COHB payments paid directly to landlords or recipients to cover rent above the ODSP shelter maximum are 100% exempt as income.

Moving to a New City: File Transfer Steps

When moving to a new municipality within Ontario:

1. Notify Your Current Caseworker: Give 30 days notice prior to moving and provide your new lease agreement.
2. Internal File Transfer: ODSP will transfer your electronic file directly to the new local office without you having to re-apply!
3. Transition Allowance: You can request a Community Start-Up / Moving Benefit or local discretionary funds to assist with moving van costs and utility connection fees.

Always submit your updated lease or rent receipt to your new caseworker before the 15th of the month you move to prevent delays in your next direct deposit.

Address Update Tip