Housing Benefit for Canadians: In April 2025, the Canadian government has rolled out a one-time housing benefit of up to $500 to support low-income renters struggling with rising living costs. If you’re a resident of Canada who spends a significant part of your income on rent, you may be eligible for this tax-free payment. Another similar benefit of $430 is also available for qualifying senior citizens.\
Whether you’re a student, a single working adult, or a senior citizen, this article provides everything you need to know about eligibility, application steps, required documents, and how quickly you can expect the payment.
Housing Benefit for Canadians Starts This Month
| Details | $500 Housing Benefit | $430 Senior Rent Relief |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Canadians aged 15+, income ≤ $20K (individuals) or ≤ $35K (families), rent ≥30% of income | Seniors aged 60+, income ≤ $37,240, Canadian resident |
| Required Documents | Rent receipts, landlord letter, 2021 tax return, CRA Notice of Assessment | Proof of age, rent receipts, income documents |
| Application Method | CRA My Account or Phone (1-800-282-8079) | Automatic for SAFER/RAP members; others apply via province |
| Payout Timeline | 5–7 days (direct deposit), 10–12 days (cheque) | 4–6 weeks after application (if new applicant) |
| Official Website | canada.ca/housing-benefit |
What Is the $500 Canada Housing Benefit?
The Canada Housing Benefit is part of the federal government’s efforts to reduce housing insecurity among low-income Canadians. It is a tax-free, one-time top-up payment aimed at helping individuals and families afford rent.
It was first introduced in 2022 but is being extended in 2025 due to continued affordability challenges in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal.
Who Is Eligible for the $500 Housing Benefit?
You may qualify for the one-time $500 housing benefit if you meet the following criteria:
Eligibility Criteria:
- Residency: Must be a resident of Canada.
- Age: At least 15 years old as of December 1, 2022.
- Income:
- Individuals: Net income of $20,000 or less.
- Families: Net income of $35,000 or less.
- Rent Paid in 2022: Must have paid at least 30% of your adjusted net income toward rent for your primary residence.
- Tax Filing: You must have filed your 2021 income tax return and received a Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
What Documents Are Needed?
To complete your application, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Rent receipts or a letter from your landlord confirming your rent payments for 2022.
- Your 2021 CRA Notice of Assessment (available in your CRA My Account).
- Valid government ID if applying via phone.
Housing Benefit for Canadians: How to Apply for the $500 Housing Benefit?
Option 1: Online Through CRA My Account
- Visit CRA My Account.
- Log in using your GCKey or banking sign-in partner.
- Go to “Tax Credits and Benefits”.
- Select “Canada Housing Benefit Top-Up”.
- Fill out the required fields and submit.
Option 2: By Phone
- Call 1-800-282-8079.
- Verify your identity.
- Follow instructions with the help of a CRA representative.
Housing Benefit for Canadians: How and When Will You Get Paid?
Payment Timeline:
- Direct Deposit: Funds will be in your account within 5 to 7 business days.
- Cheque: Delivered within 10 to 12 business days to your mailing address.
If you have already registered for direct deposit with the CRA, that’s the fastest route.
What About the $430 Senior Rent Relief?
In addition to the $500 benefit, there’s also a $430 tax-free benefit specifically for seniors aged 60 or older. This support helps elderly renters stay in their homes despite rising costs.
Senior Benefit Eligibility:
- Age: Must be 60 years or older.
- Income: Net annual income of $37,240 or less.
- Residency: Must live in Canada and use the address as your primary residence.
- Current Benefit Recipients:
- If you already receive SAFER (Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters) or RAP (Rental Assistance Program), you do not need to apply again.
- You’ll automatically receive the $430 in April 2025.
Housing Benefit for Canadians: How to Apply for the $430 Benefit if You’re Not Already Enrolled?
- Visit your province’s housing website (e.g., BC Housing).
- Find the application for SAFER or RAP programs.
- Submit proof of income, age, and rent payments.
- Wait for approval, then receive the $430 payment within 4 to 6 weeks.
Important Notes and Reminders
- These payments do not impact other benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), Old Age Security (OAS), or GST/HST credits.
- They are not considered taxable income.
- Ensure your CRA contact details and banking information are current to avoid delays.
- You can only apply once for each benefit—so double-check your eligibility before applying.
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FAQs on Housing Benefit for Canadians
Q1: Can I get both the $500 and $430 payments?
No. You can only receive one of the two based on your age and program eligibility.
Q2: What if I didn’t file my 2021 tax return?
Unfortunately, filing the 2021 return is mandatory to receive the $500 benefit. You should file it as soon as possible and contact the CRA.
Q3: Is this a recurring benefit?
No, it is a one-time payment. However, ongoing programs like SAFER and RAP provide monthly assistance.
Q4: What if my rent is shared with a roommate?
If you share rent, only your individual portion is considered. You must prove that your share is at least 30% of your income.
Q5: I moved in 2023. Can I still apply?
The benefit is based on 2022 rent and 2021 income, so moving in 2023 does not affect eligibility if you meet the other requirements.
