The March 31 deadline is fast approaching
Renters have less than six weeks remaining to apply for a $500 tranche from the Canada Housing Benefit, according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
Lower-income renters can take advantage of the one-time top-up from the CHB, ahead of the March 31 deadline.
“This one-time $500 payment is intended to assist lower-income individuals and families who struggle with the cost of rent,” the Crown corporation said. “Since the Government of Canada launched the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit on December 12, 2022, more than half a million people in Canada have already applied.”
Eligible applicants are those who have an adjusted net income in 2021 of $35,000 or less for families, or $20,000 or less for individuals. Applications should also have paid at least 30% of their adjusted household net income towards rent in 2022.
“Those eligible for the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit can quickly and easily apply through their Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) My Account,” CMHC said.
The Crown corporation assured that the one-time top-up – which is non-taxable and non-reportable – is separate from the monthly CHB, and will not affect other federal income-tested benefits.
