The Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) is back with a $498 one-time payment to help low-income renters manage rising housing costs in April 2025. This tax-free housing assistance is designed for individuals and families who spend a large portion of their income on rent.
Whether you’re a student, senior, or a working Canadian struggling to afford your rent, this federal rent support program could bring you some much-needed relief. Let’s break down how it works and how you can apply without delays.
Claim Your $498 Canada Housing Benefit This April
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $498, one-time, tax-free |
| Eligibility | Low-income renters spending 30%+ of income on rent |
| Income Limit | $20,000 for individuals, $35,000 for families |
| Tax Requirement | Must have filed a 2023 tax return |
| Application Method | Online via CRA official website |
| Deadline | Within 120 days from program launch date |
| Payment Mode | Direct deposit (5–7 days) or cheque (10–12 days) |
| Impact on Other Benefits | No impact on Canada Child Benefit, OAS, or GST/HST credits |
With housing costs continuing to climb, the Canada Housing Benefit $498 April payment is a welcome support for many renters. It’s fast, simple, and fully tax-free—but you must act quickly.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, gather your documents, file your taxes, and head over to the CRA’s official portal to apply. It’s a small effort that could offer big relief this month.
What Is the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB)?
The Canada Housing Benefit is a federal rental assistance program aimed at supporting households that are rent-burdened. It’s especially timely given the increasing costs of living in major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
In April 2025, eligible Canadians can claim a one-time $498 payment under the CHB. This money is not taxable, and won’t interfere with your other federal or provincial benefits.
The payment is meant to reduce rent stress and provide immediate financial help to Canadians who are struggling to stay housed.
Who Is Eligible for the $498 Housing Benefit in April 2025?
To qualify, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
Income Requirements
- Single Individuals: Net income must be $20,000 or less
- Families/Couples: Net income must be $35,000 or less
These amounts refer to your adjusted net income, as reported on your 2023 Notice of Assessment.
Rent Requirements
- You must have paid at least 30% of your income towards rent in 2025.
- Rent can include:
- Monthly lease or rental payments
- Heat, electricity, and water (if included in rent)
- Condo fees or mandatory parking costs (if they’re part of your rental agreement)
Residency and Tax Filing
- Must be a resident of Canada.
- Must have filed your 2023 taxes (even if you had no income).
Pro Tip: Even if you didn’t owe taxes in 2023, filing your return is a must to qualify.
How to Apply for the CHB $498 Payment
Step 1: Log in to CRA My Account
Head to the official CRA website and log in to your My Account. If you’re not already registered, you can sign up using your SIN and banking information.
Step 2: Locate the Benefit Application Section
- In your CRA account, navigate to “Benefits and Credits”.
- Look for the Canada Housing Benefit application link.
Step 3: Gather and Upload Supporting Documents
Have these documents ready:
- Rent receipts or a signed letter from your landlord
- Your 2023 Notice of Assessment
- Proof of residence (utility bill, lease agreement, or ID with address)
Step 4: Fill in the Application Form
- Enter your monthly rent amount, landlord’s contact details, and income information.
- Review carefully—errors can delay your payment.
Step 5: Submit and Track Your Application
- Click Submit once everything is verified.
- You’ll get a confirmation number.
- Payments are typically processed in 5–12 business days depending on your method of receipt.
Claim Your $498 Canada Housing Benefit This April: How Will the Payment Be Sent?
- Direct Deposit: Arrives within 5–7 business days if your banking info is on file with CRA.
- Cheque by Mail: Takes 10–12 business days, depending on your location.
And remember, this benefit is tax-free and does not reduce your other federal or provincial benefits.
Deadline Alert – Don’t Miss Out
The application window for this benefit is open for 120 days from launch. The government urges eligible Canadians to apply early, as there is no guarantee of late extensions.
Also, the CHB program itself has a sunset clause—it will expire five years from when the Rental Housing Benefit Act received Royal Assent.
If you miss the deadline, you may lose out on this benefit entirely—even if you qualify.
Already in a Provincial Rent Program? Here’s What Happens
If you are enrolled in a provincial rent assistance program like:
- SAFER (Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters) in British Columbia
- RAP (Rental Assistance Program)
- Other provincial housing supplements
Then your CHB payment may be automatically applied as a top-up of $430 to $498, depending on coordination with CRA.
If not, you must apply manually to receive the benefit.
Real-Life Example: How It Helps
Let’s say Ravi, a 30-year-old single tenant in Toronto, earns $18,000/year and pays $700/month in rent.
- That’s 46.6% of his income spent on rent—well above the 30% requirement.
- He qualifies for the full $498 benefit, which can cover nearly three weeks of rent in his case.
Canada’s $498 April Housing Benefit: How to Apply and Who Qualifies
Canada Housing Benefit: April 2025 Applications Now Open for $498 Payment
Canada Confirms $430 Rent Payment for 2025; Who will get it? Check Eligibility
FAQs on Claim Your $498 Canada Housing Benefit This April
1. Is this a recurring benefit?
No, the $498 CHB payment in April 2025 is a one-time benefit only.
2. Will I owe taxes on this payment?
No, the payment is completely tax-free.
3. What if I didn’t file my 2023 taxes yet?
You must file immediately. The CRA requires this for income verification.
4. Can students apply?
Yes, as long as you meet the income and rent thresholds, you are eligible—even if you’re a full-time student.
5. How can I check the status of my application?
Log into CRA My Account and go to “Benefits and Credits” to see updates.
