The $500 Canada Housing Benefit has been a lifeline for low-income renters across Canada, especially as rental prices continue to rise. While the popular one-time top-up ended in 2023, there’s still good news. Ongoing programs under the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) framework are still active in 2025 and continue to offer meaningful support. If you’re struggling with rent, it’s time to find out if you qualify—and how to apply.
Overview
The Canada Housing Benefit isn’t just one program. It’s a collection of housing support programs funded by the federal government and managed by provinces. In 2023, many Canadians took advantage of the $500 one-time top-up. That specific benefit expired in March 2023, but if you meet the criteria for your province, you can still receive monthly or annual rent assistance.
Let’s break down what’s available, who can get it, and how to apply this July.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) |
| One-Time Top-Up | $500 (ended March 31, 2023) |
| Current Support | Monthly or annual subsidies by province |
| Eligibility | Low-income renters, varies by location |
| How to Apply | Provincial housing authorities |
| Website | Government of Canada – Housing Benefits |
Purpose
The CHB is built to ease rental pressures for Canadians who are paying a large chunk of their income on rent. Though the $500 payment was temporary, long-term support is still available in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and others. These programs aim to stabilize housing, reduce homelessness, and protect renters in vulnerable situations.
Eligibility
Eligibility depends on where you live, but the common factors include:
- Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or protected status
- Renting in the private market (not in government-subsidized housing)
- Income below the local threshold
- Rent costing over 30% of your monthly income
- Documentation like rent receipts, ID, and income statements
Some provinces also prioritize seniors, Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, and survivors of domestic violence.
Ontario
The Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB) is still going strong. Here’s what you need to qualify:
- Household income below $65,000
- Paying over 30% of income on rent
- On or eligible for social housing waitlists
- Not already in rent-geared-to-income housing
To apply, contact your local housing service manager.
British Columbia
BC offers help through the Canada-BC Housing Benefit and Rental Assistance Program (RAP). You may qualify if:
- You earn less than $44,400 (single) or $58,000 (family)
- You pay more than 30% of income on rent
- You rent in the private market and do not receive other subsidies
Applications go through the BC Housing portal.
Application
Here’s how to apply, no matter your province:
Step 1
Start with your province’s housing website. Look at income limits, rent thresholds, and special conditions.
Step 2
You’ll need:
- ID and status proof
- Income statements or tax returns
- Lease agreement or rent receipts
- Rent payment proof
Step 3
Online or through local housing offices. Accuracy is key—mistakes can delay approval.
Step 4
Many programs require yearly updates. Keep track of your renewal dates and any changes in your income or housing status.
Top Up End
The $500 one-time top-up in 2022 was meant as emergency help during a tough inflation period. To qualify back then, you needed:
- Income under $35,000 (single) or $55,000 (families)
- Rent taking up 30% or more of your earnings
Over 1.8 million Canadians claimed it before the March 2023 deadline. While it’s no longer active, the attention it drew helped more renters explore ongoing supports.
Other Provinces
The Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit helps renters spending more than 40% of income on rent. You must:
- Live in Nova Scotia
- Not receive other housing support
- Prove high rent costs
Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan:
Each of these provinces offers similar rent help. Details differ, but they all support renters based on income, rent, and family size.
- Alberta: Rent Supplement Programs
- Manitoba: Rent Assist
- Saskatchewan: Rental Housing Supplement
Check local housing authority websites for applications.
FAQs
Can I still get the $500 housing top-up?
No, the one-time top-up ended on March 31, 2023.
Is the Canada Housing Benefit still active?
Yes, through ongoing provincial programs in 2025.
Who is eligible for CHB?
Low-income renters paying over 30% of income on rent.
How do I apply for CHB in Ontario?
Apply through a local housing service manager.
What documents are needed to apply?
ID, income proof, lease, and rent payment records.
