$498 Canada Housing Boost in April 2025 – Here’s How to Claim It Before It’s Gone!

$498 Canada Housing Boost in April 2025: As part of its continued commitment to easing the burden of rising living expenses, the Government of Canada has launched the $498 Canada Housing Boost in April 2025. This timely, one-time tax-free payment aims to provide much-needed support to low-income renters who are increasingly feeling the pressure of soaring rent prices, especially in urban centers across the country.

If you’re struggling to stay ahead of monthly bills and your rent has become a growing concern, this benefit could be the boost you need. But act quickly – the application deadline is April 30, 2025. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every detail: who qualifies, how much you can get, and exactly how to apply.

$498 Canada Housing Boost in April 2025

Why the $498 Canada Housing Boost Matters in 2025

Housing affordability has become a national crisis. Canada’s average rent climbed by more than 10.5% year-over-year in early 2025, with major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal seeing even sharper spikes (source). For millions of renters, this means being forced to cut back on food, delay healthcare appointments, or go into debt just to cover monthly housing costs.

This program provides not only financial relief but also a sense of security for people at risk of housing instability. Unlike regular income-based assistance programs, the $498 Housing Boost is not taxable, does not affect your other benefits, and is delivered quickly. It also doesn’t require enrollment in long-term subsidy programs like RAP (Rental Assistance Program), making it accessible to a broader group of Canadians.

Who Is Eligible for the $498 Housing Boost?

To receive the benefit, you must meet several key eligibility criteria. While the program is broad and inclusive, it does have firm financial thresholds:

General Requirements

• Must be a resident of Canada in 2025.
• Must be 15 years of age or older.
• Must have filed your 2023 income tax return before applying.

Income Requirements

• Individuals: Net income must be $20,000 or less.
• Families: Combined net household income must be $35,000 or less.

Rent-to-Income Threshold

To ensure the support goes to those with the most significant rent burdens:

• You must have spent 30% or more of your adjusted net income on rent in 2023.
• Example: If you earned $18,000 last year, your rent payments must have totaled at least $5,400 (which is $450/month).

Additional Considerations for Seniors

• If you’re aged 60 and above and earn $37,240 or less per year, you might also qualify for an additional $430 rent relief offered through a connected program. This can be combined with other provincial rent subsidies for added assistance.

Apply for the $498 Canada Housing Boost

The process is simple, streamlined, and fast. Whether you’re tech-savvy or prefer speaking to someone on the phone, there’s an application route for you.

• Gather Required Documents: Before you start, make sure you have the following,
  • Your 2023 Notice of Assessment from the CRA.
  • Copies of rent receipts, a lease agreement, or a letter from your landlord proving what you paid in 2023.
  • Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, health card, etc.).
  • Proof of address such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or government correspondence.
• Choose Your Application Method:
  • Online Application:
    • Visit CRA My Account.
    • Log in securely with your credentials.
    • Navigate to “Housing Benefit” under available services and follow the instructions.
  • Phone Application:
    • Call 1-800-282-8079.
    • Have your Social Insurance Number (SIN), income tax details, and rent receipts ready.
• Application Review & Payment:
  • Direct Deposit: You should receive your benefit within 5 to 7 business days.
  • Cheque by Mail: Please allow 10 to 12 business days for delivery.

Tips to Maximize Your Benefit

Maximizing your benefit means making sure your application is error-free and fully supported by documents. Here are some expert tips:

• Double-check your CRA account to confirm your direct deposit info is up to date.
• Organize your receipts chronologically to match your application data.
• Apply as early as possible to avoid processing backlogs.
• If you are on a provincial rent supplement like SAFER (Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters) or RAP, you may not need to apply at all – payments may be automatic.
• Ask for help from a community service agency or tax clinic if you’re unsure how to file or apply.

Real-Life Example: Maria’s Story

Maria, a 29-year-old part-time retail employee in Toronto, earned $18,500 in 2023. She shares a small apartment and pays $1,000/month for her half of the rent. After reading about the Housing Boost online:

• She gathered her receipts and logged into CRA My Account.
• She submitted her application in less than 30 minutes.
• Within 6 business days, $498 was deposited into her account, helping her pay off her electricity bill and buy groceries.

Maria said, “This benefit came at just the right time. It was easy to apply, and the money made a big difference that month.”

What If You’re Not Sure You Qualify?

Not everyone is confident about meeting eligibility rules. Thankfully, the CRA offers helpful tools:

• Use the Benefit Eligibility Calculator inside CRA My Account.
• Visit a Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) location for support.
• Contact CRA by phone to ask questions. It’s better to apply and be denied than miss out altogether because you hesitated.

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FAQs On $498 Canada Housing Boost in April 2025

1. Is the $498 Housing Boost considered taxable income?

No. This is a non-taxable benefit, meaning it won’t affect your other tax filings or government benefits.

2. What happens if I missed filing my 2023 taxes?

You’ll need to file your 2023 return immediately to become eligible. CRA will not process your application without it.

3. Are students eligible?

Yes, as long as you meet the income and rent thresholds. Students who work part-time or rely on financial assistance may qualify.

4. How do I prove rent if I live with roommates?

Submit only your portion of the rent, and include receipts or bank statements that confirm your individual payments.

5. Can social assistance recipients apply?

Yes. Being on social assistance does not disqualify you from receiving this housing benefit.

6. Can I apply if I live in subsidized housing?

Yes, but your total rent contributions still need to meet the 30% threshold. Include details of what you personally paid.