Filing a standard tenant application (like a T2 or T6) at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) in Ontario costs $48 CAD if done online, or $53 CAD by mail. If you have a low income, you can submit a Fee Waiver Request to have these filing fees completely waived.
Renting a home in Ontario can sometimes lead to serious disputes regarding maintenance, illegal entries, or harassment. When your landlord refuses to address these issues in cities like Toronto, Ottawa, or Mississauga, you may need to escalate the matter. 📝
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is the official provincial tribunal that resolves these conflicts. Many renters hesitate to file a case because they worry about high legal expenses and upfront costs.
Fortunately, the province has structured the system to be relatively accessible for tenants. This guide will explain the exact costs of filing different LTB applications, how to use the Tribunals Ontario Portal, and how to apply for a fee waiver if you are experiencing financial hardship.
Step-by-Step Process in Ontario
Whether you live in a high-rise apartment in Hamilton or a basement suite in London, the process for filing a tenant application is standard across Ontario. Getting your paperwork right the first time is crucial to avoid lengthy delays. 📍
Before you begin, gather all your evidence, such as text messages with your landlord, photographs of disrepair, and your formal lease agreement.
Step 1: Choose the Correct Tenant Form
The LTB uses specific forms for different problems. The most common is the Form T2 (Application about Tenant Rights), which you use if your landlord is harassing you, entering illegally, or changing the locks. ❗
If your issue is related to broken appliances, mould, or general disrepair, you must file a Form T6 (Tenant Application about Maintenance). It is possible to file both a T2 and T6 together if you are facing multiple issues simultaneously.
Step 2: Create a Tribunals Ontario Portal Account
The fastest and most cost-effective way to file your application is digitally. You should create an account on the official Tribunals Ontario Portal.
This secure online system allows you to upload your application, pay the provincial filing fee, submit your photo and video evidence, and check the real-time status of your hearing date without having to wait on hold by phone.
Step 3: Submit a Fee Waiver Request (If Applicable)
If paying the filing fee will cause you significant financial hardship, Ontario offers a Fee Waiver program. You must fill out a Fee Waiver Request form and submit it alongside your main application. 💰
The LTB generally grants these waivers if your primary source of income is Ontario Works (OW), the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), or if your monthly income falls below a specific poverty threshold established by the province.
Step 4: Serve the Application to the Landlord
Once the LTB processes your application, they will issue a Notice of Hearing. In most tenant applications, the LTB will take on the responsibility of serving this notice to the landlord on your behalf.
However, under Rule 19.1 of the LTB Rules of Procedure and the Practice Direction on Evidence, you must upload all your evidence to the portal and provide a copy to the landlord at least 7 business days (not calendar days) before your scheduled virtual hearing. Failing to meet this strict deadline means your evidence could be excluded from the hearing.
How Much Does it Cost in Ontario?
The baseline costs for filing an LTB application are relatively low compared to standard civil court proceedings. However, if you choose to hire legal representation, your costs will increase. 💵
Here is a breakdown of the standard expenses a tenant might face:
| Type of Expense | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Who Pays? |
|---|---|---|
| T2 / T6 Online Filing Fee | $48 | Tenant (Waived if low income) |
| T2 / T6 Paper Filing Fee | $53 | Tenant |
| Filing Multiple Forms Together | $48 (Combined fee) | Tenant |
| Lawyer or Paralegal Fees | $500 – $2,000+ Flat Fee | Tenant (Out of pocket) |
If you are successful at your hearing, the adjudicator will generally order the landlord to reimburse you for the $48 or $53 filing fee. However, they rarely order the landlord to pay for your personal law firm or paralegal costs.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Patience is heavily required when dealing with the LTB. As of 2026, the board is still working through severe administrative backlogs, and tenant applications are often scheduled slower than landlord eviction notices. ⏱
Currently, a standard T2 or T6 application typically takes 5 to 7 months before you receive a hearing date, thanks to additional resources and new LTB automation systems implemented in 2026.
If you are experiencing an absolute emergency, such as your landlord illegally locking you out or turning off your winter heating, you can file a Request to Shorten Time. If granted, your hearing could take place in just 1 to 3 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I withhold my rent to pay for my LTB filing fee?
Absolutely not. Under Ontario law, you must continue to pay your rent in full and on time while you wait for your LTB hearing. Withholding rent gives your landlord the legal right to file an N4 eviction notice against you.
Do I have to pay twice if I file a T2 and a T6?
No. If you file a T2 and a T6 at the exact same time regarding the same rental unit, you only have to pay the filing fee once. The online portal will automatically combine the cost into a single $48 charge.
Do I need a lawyer to file a tenant application?
You are not required to have a lawyer or paralegal; you can represent yourself. However, if your case involves complex legal arguments, thousands of dollars in damages, or a highly aggressive landlord, consulting a local law firm is often a smart investment.
Will the LTB refund my fee if I lose my case?
No. The $48 or $53 is a non-refundable administrative fee that covers the cost of processing your paperwork. You only get this money back if you win and the adjudicator specifically orders the landlord to reimburse you.
Can my landlord evict me just for filing a T6?
No. It is completely illegal for an Ontario landlord to evict, threaten, or penalize a tenant simply for exercising their legal rights. If they try to evict you in retaliation, the LTB will generally dismiss their application and may fine the landlord.
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