In Ontario, rent receipts are a fundamental part of renting, offering both proof of payment and a valuable record for tenants. Whether you're paying cash, cheque, or e-transfer, understanding what to expect from your rent receipt can protect your rights—and make life easier at tax time. Here’s what Ontario tenants need to know about rent receipts, your legal rights, and how to ensure your landlord complies with provincial law.

Why Are Rent Receipts Important?

Rent receipts provide tenants with written proof that rent or related payments were made. In Ontario, landlords are required by law to provide a receipt for any payment you make if you ask for one, regardless of how you pay. These receipts can be crucial when dealing with disputes, claiming tax credits, or confirming payment history.

What Must Be Included in a Rent Receipt?

According to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1], a rent receipt should contain key pieces of information:

• Date the receipt was issued
• Name of the tenant(s)
• Address of the rental unit
• Amount and type of payment (e.g., rent, deposit)
• Payment period covered (e.g., April 2024 rent)
• Name and signature of the landlord or their agent

Having all this information makes receipts useful for any future reference.

Requesting a Rent Receipt from Your Landlord

If you need a rent receipt, you can request one at any time—even for past payments. Landlords must provide a receipt for up to 12 months after payment, unless a longer period has been agreed upon in writing.

Step-by-Step: How to Request a Rent Receipt

• Contact your landlord in writing (email or letter) and ask for the receipt. Keep a copy of your request.
• If they do not respond or refuse, remind them of their obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act.
• If the issue is not resolved, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB) for assistance^[2].

Receipts for Deposits and Other Payments

Landlords are also required to issue receipts for any other payment related to your tenancy, such as last month’s rent deposits or key deposits. To learn more about how deposits work in Ontario, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Official Forms and When to Use Them

While there is no specific government form for requesting a rent receipt, tenants can use these resources and tools:

• Application About Tenant Rights – Form T2: Use this form to file a complaint with the LTB if your landlord refuses to provide required receipts. Access the T2 form and instructions here.

Example: If your landlord isn’t issuing receipts and you need one for a tax credit claim, you can first request it in writing. If the landlord still refuses, fill out and submit the Form T2 to the Landlord and Tenant Board online, in-person, or by mail.

When Might You Need a Rent Receipt?

• To claim Ontario's Energy and Property Tax Credit on your taxes
• To provide proof of rent paid for social assistance or other benefit programs
• To resolve disputes about missed or late payments
• When moving out, to show you have paid all rent owing

What If a Landlord Refuses to Provide Receipts?

If you have made a written request and the landlord refuses to comply, you have options. Documentation of all communication with your landlord is crucial.

• File a complaint using the LTB’s T2 form
• Seek free support from Ontario tenant advocacy organizations (see resources below)

For a broader understanding of how to manage your payments and responsibilities as a tenant, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

If you’re navigating rental life in Ontario, remember you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada with ease—and find rentals that fit your budget and needs across the country.

Want to understand the full picture of your rights and obligations? Visit Tenant Rights in Ontario for more details on rent, deposits, repairs, and more.

1. Do I have to pay for a rent receipt in Ontario?
   No. Landlords must provide rent receipts for free if you request them. It is illegal for a landlord in Ontario to charge for issuing a receipt.
2. Can I get receipts for past rent payments going back a year?
   Yes. Ontario law requires landlords to provide receipts for rent or deposit payments up to 12 months after the payment was made, if you ask.
3. What should I do if my landlord refuses to provide a receipt?
   Start by requesting in writing. If they still refuse, you can file a T2 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) to enforce your right.
4. Are digital or email receipts acceptable?
   Yes. Electronic receipts are permitted, as long as they contain all required information (date, amount, address, etc.).
5. Why might I need a rent receipt for tax purposes?
   Rent receipts are required to claim the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit and may be needed for certain social assistance or benefit applications.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

• Ontario tenants have a legal right to request free rent receipts for any payment made.
• Receipts protect you by providing proof of payment for rent, deposits, and more.
• If your landlord refuses, the Landlord and Tenant Board can help you enforce your rights.

Rent receipts are simple but essential for a secure and responsible tenancy. Understanding your rights helps ensure a smooth rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB) — official forms, guidance, and online applications
• Ontario Government – Renting in Ontario: Your Rights
• Tenant Advocacy: Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario (ACTO) provides free information and help
• Community Legal Clinics: Local support for housing and tenancy issues

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1. See Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 s. 109(3): landlord’s obligation to provide receipts.
2. Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario information: official LTB website.

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