Applying for the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit - Canada Revenue Agency
Applying for the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit - Canada Revenue Agency
For many Canadians, the rise of inflation and the high cost of living has made it even more challenging to find a safe and affordable place to call home. That's why the Government of Canada is taking action to help vulnerable Canadian renters facing housing affordability challenges.On December 12, 2022, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is accepting applications for the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit and you may be eligible to apply! This benefit provides a one-time payment of $500 to eligible applicants.
To be eligible for the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit, you must:
- have filed a 2021 tax return;
- be at least 15 years of age as of December 1, 2022;
- have an adjusted family net income of $20,000 or less for individuals or $35,000 or less for families;
- be a resident of Canada in 2022 for tax purposes;
- have paid at least 30% of your 2021 adjusted family net income on rent for your principal residence in the 2022 calendar year; and
- be able to provide your landlord's contact information.
To get ready to apply, make sure:
- you are registered for CRA My Account and are able to sign in. When signing in, you may notice enhanced security measures such as multi-factor authentication, and that you're required to have an email address on file;
- your personal information with the CRA, such as your address, marital status, and banking information, is up to date; and
- you have filed your 2021 tax return.
How to apply:
- CRA My Account is a quick, easy, and secure way to apply for the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit. If you apply online and are signed up for a direct deposit, you can expect to get your payment within five business days, from the day it has been processed.
- Employment and Social Development Canada's (ESDC) My Service Canada Account will allow you to securely access CRA My Account without having to sign in or revalidate your identity.
- An online web form will also be available to submit applications for those who do not have a CRA My Account or an ESDC My Service Canada Account. The web form will not allow for address and direct deposit changes -- if you need to update your personal and banking information, we encourage you to apply through CRA My Account or ESDC My Service Canada Account.
- If you are unable to apply for this new benefit online, you can call us at 1-800-282-8079 to complete your application.
For more information on the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit, including eligibility and how to apply, visit Canada[.ca]/housing-top-up.
LINKS TO GOVERNMENT APPLICATION
Applications are open until Friday, March 31, 2023.
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