Lower-income renters in Canada can now apply for the $500 one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit through their Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) My Account. To qualify for the benefit, tax-paying Canadians must be at least 15 years of age with an adjusted family net income of $20,000 or less for individuals, or $35,000 or less for families. Additionally, they must have paid at least 30 per cent of their 2021 net income on rent for their principal residence and be able to provide their rental address(es) and landlord contact information.
“During the pandemic when Canadians needed support, the Agency rolled up its sleeves and rose to the occasion,” said Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue. “It will do so again by ensuring that eligible Canadians can apply for the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit in a simple and secure way. Our government has delivered and will continue to deliver concrete results for Canadians who need it most.”
The one-time top-up is one of the targeted measures the Government of Canada has implemented to “make life more affordable for Canadians” since the onset of COVID-19. Other measures include doubling the GST credit and creating the Canada Dental Benefit to offset some of the year’s significant cost-of-living increases.
“The one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit is crucial in helping low-income renters, who are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet,” said Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, Ahmed Hussen. “It is meant to help our most vulnerable neighbours by offering immediate relief during these challenging times. Through this payment, our government is demonstrating its commitment to helping those who need it most. This additional support will make a real difference in the lives of many Canadians.”
Today also marks the opening of the application portal for the Projects Stream of the Rapid Housing Initiative available through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The application window will be open for approximately 90 days (December 12, 2022, to March 15, 2023). Eligible applicants for this stream include provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous governing bodies and organizations, and non-profit organizations.
