Are you or a loved one facing difficulty paying rent? There’s a $500 tax-free benefit for low-income renters

The housing crisis is affecting millions of residents of Canada, including many CUPE members and their families.

Thanks to the NDP’s use of its power in the Liberal minority government, there is now a one-time $500 benefit available to low-income renters across Canada. The deadline to apply is March 31, 2023.

The $500 benefit is tax-free. You can receive it if you meet the following conditions:

  • Age and residency
    • You were at least 15 years old on December 1, 2022
    • Your principal residence was in Canada on December 1, 2022
    • You were a resident of Canada in 2022 for tax purposes
  • Tax filings
    • You have filed/will file your 2021 tax return by March 31, 2023 (and, if applicable, so has your spouse or common-law partner)
  • Income
    • Your 2021 adjusted net income was
      • $20,000 or less for individuals
      • $35,000 or less for families
  • Rent
    • Applicable to rent paid in 2022
    • Rent must be equal to at least 30% of your above-noted income

You do not already need to be receiving other benefits to qualify

To apply:

Online: How to apply - One-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit - Canada.ca

Phone: 1-800-282-8079

TTY: 1-800-665-0354

Operator assisted relay service: 1-800-282-8079

Questions: You can call the phone numbers above between 8 AM to 8 PM local time Monday to Friday or 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays.

Deadline to apply: March 31, 2023