RLB Blog

In a previous blog, we discussed proposed changes to Underused Housing Tax (UHT) legislation in the 2023 Fall Economic Statement which may alleviate UHT filing requirements for many Canadians. As we approach the April 30, 2024, filing deadline for 2023 UHT returns, we revisit these proposals and review their current status.

Initially proposed during the 2021 Federal Budget, the Underused Housing Tax (“UHT”) and the commentary around it has continued to evolve over recent months. Intended as a tax on vacant or underused housing in Canada owned by non-residents, the UHT has attracted a lot of additional attention primarily due to its wide-reaching filing requirements and severe late filing penalties. 

The Underused Housing Tax Act (the “UHTA”) came into effect from January 1, 2022. The rules for UHTA were enacted June 9, 2022, for residential properties owned on December 31 each year starting December 31, 2022. The Underused Housing Tax (“UHT”) rules require residential property owners to file an annual return, unless certain exemptions apply, even if no tax is due.

Impact of economic Downturn and Opportunities