Low-income renters struggling to afford housing are encouraged to apply for this one-time, tax-free $500 payment. This payment is a top-up to the existing Canada Housing Benefit, but eligible applicants are not required to already be receiving that benefit.
The following criteria must be met to be eligible:
- At least 15 years of age as of December 1, 2022
- Principal residence was in Canada on December 1, 2022
- Resident of Canada in 2022
- Filed a 2021 tax return or statement of income
- In 2021, had an adjusted family net income of $20,000 or less for individuals, or $35,000 or less for families
- Paid at least 30% of 2021 adjusted family net income on rent for the principal residence in 2022
- Able to provide the 2022 address(es) and landlord’s contact information
How to apply:
- Through your CRA “My Account”
- Online using a web form (linked on this page)
- By phone at 1-800-282-8079
Successful applicants must keep relevant receipts and documentation for 6 years since CRA may request proof of eligibility. Payments to ineligible Canadians will have to be paid back.
The application deadline is Friday, March 31, 2023.
This financial support is one of the many ways the Federal government is working to help vulnerable Canadians make ends meet.
See the link on this page for the application and further details.
