The Canadian government has officially approved a $600 housing benefit top-up to support renters hit hardest by rising housing costs.
Managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this one-time, non-taxable payment will be distributed in August 2025 to eligible low- and moderate-income households across the country.
This new initiative is part of Canada’s broader housing affordability strategy and is designed to provide immediate financial relief amid rising rent prices and ongoing inflation concerns.
Who Qualifies for the $600 Housing Benefit Top-Up 2025?
To ensure the benefit reaches those most in need, the CRA has published clear eligibility requirements. As of July 2025, to qualify for the $600 housing support, applicants must:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Have a total annual income under $35,000 for individuals or $55,000 for families.
- Have spent at least 30% of their income on rent during the 2024 calendar year.
- Have filed their 2024 tax return.
- Be renting a primary residence in Canada.
Applicants may still qualify even if they receive other benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), or provincial rent subsidies, as long as their rent meets the 30% income threshold.
Application Process and Important Dates
The CRA has made the application process simple and entirely online. Applications open July 15, 2025, and will be accepted through October 31, 2025.
To apply, individuals must:
- Log in to their CRA My Account.
- Confirm income and rent information for 2024.
- Provide landlord details or upload a rental agreement.
- Certify the accuracy of the information submitted.
Once the application is approved, payments will be issued via direct deposit by mid-August 2025. Those without direct deposit will receive a mailed cheque, which may take additional days to arrive.
Benefit Overview: Key Facts
Here’s a summary of the benefit for quick reference:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Amount | $600 (one-time, tax-free) |
| Application Opens | July 15, 2025 |
| Payment Starts | Mid-August 2025 |
| Income Threshold | $35,000 (individuals) / $55,000 (families) |
| Rent-to-Income Rule | Rent ≥ 30% of 2024 household income |
| Application Method | CRA My Account (online) |
| Affects Other Benefits | No |
| CRA Verification | Yes |
Why This Top-Up Is Important in 2025
In cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, average rent prices have surged above $2,000 per month, making affordable housing more difficult to find. This $600 CRA rent top-up comes at a time when vacancy rates are low and wage growth has stalled.
With inflation still above 3% and housing demand outpacing supply, the top-up serves as an urgent lifeline for over 1.4 million Canadians, especially those caught between social assistance thresholds and unaffordable rent.
The $600 Housing Benefit Top-Up for August 2025 is a crucial measure in Canada’s fight against housing insecurity. By targeting renters most at risk and delivering funds quickly through the CRA, this one-time payment ensures much-needed relief without disrupting existing supports.
Eligible Canadians are strongly encouraged to apply promptly and secure this vital support for a more stable future.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the $600 housing top-up in 2025?
Residents with an income below $35,000 (individuals) or $55,000 (families) who paid at least 30% of their income on rent in 2024.
Will this benefit affect my other government payments?
No, the $600 payment is non-taxable and does not impact other federal or provincial benefit programs.
How do I apply for the $600 housing benefit?
You can apply online via your CRA My Account between July 15 and October 31, 2025, with proof of rent and income.