LTB Notices & Compliance 8 min read

How to Issue an N4 in Ontario

What Is an N4 Notice?

The N4 (Notice to End a Tenancy Early for Non-payment of Rent) is the formal notice a landlord uses when a tenant owes rent. It's the first step in recovering arrears or beginning the eviction process.

Notice Period: 14 Days Now, 7 Days from Sept 21, 2026 (Bill 60)

The minimum N4 notice period depends on the date the notice is served:

  • Served before September 21, 2026: the termination date must be at least 14 days after service for monthly/yearly tenancies (7 days for daily/weekly)
  • Served on/after September 21, 2026: 7 days for ALL tenancy types (Bill 60, OIC 618/2026)
  • Before filing, full payment of arrears plus rent newly due by the termination date may void the N4; partial payment does not automatically void it
  • If an N4 is voided and the tenant falls behind again, a new N4 must be issued

Filling Out the N4 Correctly

The N4 must name every tenant, give the complete rental-unit address, show rent-only arrears and the correct termination date, and be signed and dated by the landlord or authorized representative. An N4 termination date does not have to be the last day of a rental period.

High-risk mistake: printing a termination date and then serving the draft late. Count from actual or deemed service. If service is too late, do not repair the record afterward—regenerate, sign, and serve a new copy.

What Happens After the N4

Only on or after the day following the N4 termination date, while the tenant remains in possession and rent is still owing, may the landlord assess an L1 filing. If the tenant moved out, review L10; for collection without eviction, review L9, which does not require an N4. Anchorlease never files automatically.

How AnchorLease Helps

AnchorLease checks N4 dates against the applicable rule, reconciles rent-only arrears, and flags common errors before service. Uncertain facts stay behind a manual-review gate.

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. For professional advice, consult a licensed lawyer, paralegal, or accountant.