If you are a homeowner and have not yet completed your Vacant Unit Tax (VUT) declaration, don’t delay and declare today. Declarations after the March 21 deadline will result in a $250 late charge.
Declaring is quick and simple. Visit ottawa.ca/vut, click Submit declaration, and log on with the roll number and access code – which can be found on your:
- Email or VUT information notice
- Last year’s property tax bill or this year’s interim property tax bill
If you are registered with MySeviceOttawa, you can go directly to the declaration form from your property tax account.
Every residential property owner must declare, even if the property is your principal residence.
Alternate and accessible declaration options available
The City has set up declaration options for residents who require accessibility-related supports, and for those without access to the internet or digital devices – such as computers, tablets and other hand-held devices:
- Call 613-580-2444 and select option #3 where an agent will help complete your declaration over the phone
- Call 613-580-2401 for TTY
- Tell your Canada Video Relay Service interpreter to call 613-580-2444, option #3
- Get in-person assistance at one of the City’s Client Service Centres. Priority will be given to scheduled appointments. Visit ottawa.ca/csc for locations, hours of service or book an appointment.
.Helping make housing more affordable
The intent of the VUT is to help address Ottawa’s current housing supply shortage. It acts as an incentive for residential owners to either rent or sell vacant properties. Adding more units helps stabilize and lower market prices and rents. Revenues generated from VUT will go directly to the City’s budget for constructing more affordable and supportive housing.
Residential properties vacant 184 or more days may be subject to tax
Residential property owners need to indicate if their property was vacant 184 or more days during 2023 calendar year. Properties that are not used as a principal residence and were vacant 184 or more days could be subject to a one per cent tax on the final property tax bill.
Property owners can select any of the specified exemptions – such as legal or estate issues, hospitalization or death of owner, or renovations – that is applicable for their reason for the vacancy. The owner must also provide relevant information, such as a building permit or application number, court order number, date of death.
All VUT revenues – including late declaration charges – are invested directly towards affordable housing.
False claims could receive fine
If a declaration is not filed – even if it is a principal residence – it will be deemed vacant and the VUT will be applied. All declarations will be eligible for an audit and false claims could result in a fine up to $10,000.
Learn more about the Vacant Unit Tax at ottawa.ca/vut.