Claim Your $500 Canada Housing Benefit: The $500 Canada Housing Benefit has been a lifeline for many low-income renters across Canada. As housing costs continue to rise in 2025, understanding if you’re eligible for this type of support — and how to claim it — is more important than ever. This comprehensive, step-by-step guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and what programs are currently active under the broader Canada Housing Benefit framework.
Although the popular one-time top-up of $500 ended in March 2023, long-term programs under the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) umbrella are still providing essential support. If you’re feeling the pinch of rising rent prices, or know someone who is, this guide will walk you through the options available this April.
Claim Your $500 Canada Housing Benefit
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) |
| Past One-Time Top-Up | $500 benefit ended March 31, 2023 |
| Ongoing Support | Monthly or annual housing assistance based on province |
| Eligibility Criteria | Varies by province; generally low-income renters |
| Application Process | Provincial application, proof of income, lease info |
| Official Website | Government of Canada – Housing Benefits |
The Canada Housing Benefit continues to offer critical rent relief to thousands of Canadians across the country. Although the $500 top-up was a short-term measure, lasting support is available through provincial programs for those who qualify.
With rent prices increasing and affordable housing still limited in many regions, staying informed about your eligibility and applying on time can make a real difference. If you’re struggling to pay rent, now is the time to explore your options through the CHB.
What Is the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB)?
The Canada Housing Benefit is a joint federal and provincial initiative created to provide ongoing financial support to low-income renters struggling to afford market-rate housing. While the $500 one-time top-up was a temporary relief initiative, the CHB as a whole continues in many provinces.
This benefit is not a single program, but rather a network of housing support systems across the country, tailored to local housing markets. In provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia, the CHB operates through specific, provincially-administered programs offering monthly or annual subsidies to renters.
The overarching aim of CHB is simple yet crucial: to improve housing affordability, reduce homelessness, and promote housing stability for vulnerable Canadians.
Who Is Eligible For Canada Housing Benefit in April 2025?
Eligibility criteria vary from one province to another, but generally, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or have refugee protection status
- Be renting a home in the private market (not receiving other housing subsidies)
- Have an income below a specified threshold, often based on family size and location
- Be paying more than 30% of your monthly income on rent
- Be able to provide documentation like rent receipts, lease agreements, and income statements
Some provinces may also prioritize specific groups, such as seniors, individuals with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, or victims of domestic violence.
Ontario (Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit – COHB)
In Ontario, the COHB offers direct, portable financial assistance to eligible low-income renters. To qualify in April 2025, applicants typically must:
- Have a gross household income of less than $65,000
- Spend more than 30% of income on rent
- Be on, or eligible for, the social housing waitlist
- Not currently living in rent-geared-to-income housing
Apply through local service managers. More info here
British Columbia (Canada-BC Housing Benefit)
In BC, the CHB operates under several streams, including the Rental Assistance Program (RAP) and the Canada-BC Housing Benefit. To qualify:
- Annual household income must not exceed $44,400 for singles or around $58,000 for families
- Applicants must be paying more than 30% of their income on rent
- Must be living in non-subsidized rental housing
Application and eligibility tools are available through BC Housing.
How to Apply for the Canada Housing Benefit
While the CHB is administered provincially, most applications follow a similar structure. Here’s a practical guide to help you apply, regardless of your location in Canada:
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Start by visiting your province’s housing ministry website or contacting a local housing agency. Review the income limits, required documentation, and any unique criteria for your region.
Step 2: Collect Necessary Documentation
Prepare the following materials:
- Government-issued ID
- Proof of citizenship or residency status
- CRA Notice of Assessment or recent tax returns
- Lease agreement or rent receipts
- Proof of rent payments
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You can usually apply online or by submitting a paper form to your local housing authority. Ensure all documents are accurate and up to date to avoid delays.
Step 4: Stay in Touch and Renew Annually
Many programs require annual renewals. Make note of your benefit’s expiry date and prepare to submit updated documentation every year. Prompt communication with your housing office can ensure uninterrupted benefits.
Why the $500 One-Time Top-Up Ended
The $500 one-time housing benefit was introduced in December 2022 to provide immediate support during a period of high inflation and rising housing costs. It was available to renters with an income of less than $35,000 (single) or $55,000 (families) who paid more than 30% of income on rent.
Over 1.8 million Canadians accessed the benefit before the application window closed on March 31, 2023. Though no longer available, it raised awareness and encouraged more renters to explore long-term supports through programs like the CHB.
For background, see the official CRA page.
Other Provincial Programs Worth Exploring
Nova Scotia: Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit (CNSTHB)
This program is designed for households spending over 40% of their pre-tax income on rent. Applicants must:
- Reside in Nova Scotia
- Not be receiving other housing supplements
- Provide documentation showing rental burden
Apply here: Nova Scotia Benefit
Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan
These provinces have similar housing assistance programs managed through local housing authorities:
- Alberta: Rent Supplement Programs (learn more)
- Manitoba: Rent Assist (details here)
- Saskatchewan: Rental Housing Supplement (program site)
Each province uses its own criteria based on income, rent, and household size.
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FAQs About Claim Your $500 Canada Housing Benefit
Can I still receive the $500 one-time benefit in 2025?
Unfortunately, no. The top-up benefit ended in March 2023. However, you may qualify for long-term rental assistance under your provincial CHB program.
What if my income has decreased recently?
Most provinces allow applicants to report a change in circumstances. You may be asked to provide updated financial documents such as recent pay stubs or letters from your employer.
Can students apply for this benefit?
Yes, in some provinces. As long as students meet the income criteria and aren’t receiving other housing subsidies, they may be eligible.
Is the CHB considered taxable income?
No. Housing benefits are not counted as taxable income by the CRA.
Will I have to repay the benefit?
No. As long as you qualify and the information provided is accurate, this is a non-repayable housing assistance payment.
