To provide relief from the growing rental burden and financial stress faced by low-income Canadians, the Canadian government is rolling out a one-time $600 Housing Benefit Top-Up. Managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this top-up extends federal support to individuals struggling with housing instability due to stagnant wages and inflated rental markets.
This benefit forms part of a broader housing affordability initiative and is especially focused on supporting Canadians living in expensive rental regions. Applications begin in July 2025, and due to the limited-time nature of the program, qualified residents are advised to apply promptly.
Who Can Apply for the $600 Housing Top-Up?
The CRA has defined specific eligibility criteria to ensure this housing support reaches the most vulnerable. As of July 2025, residents must meet the following conditions:
- Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Annual income must be below $35,000 for individuals or under $55,000 for families
- Rent paid in 2024 must be 30% or more of the total household income
- Must have filed their 2024 income tax return
- The rented property must be the primary residence
The CRA will conduct thorough checks using tax records and housing declarations. Any false information could result in disqualification or penalties.
Application Timeline & How to Apply
The application period opens on July 15, 2025, and closes on October 31, 2025. Applications are to be submitted through the CRA My Account portal. For individuals with accessibility requirements, phone assistance is also available.
Steps to Apply
- Log in to the CRA My Account
- Verify and confirm 2024 income and rental expenses
- Submit landlord details or a valid rental agreement
- Certify all information as accurate
Payments will begin processing in mid-August 2025, with direct deposit being the fastest way to receive the funds.
Why This Benefit Is Important in 2025
The $600 top-up is not a recurring subsidy, but a non-taxable lump sum to provide immediate assistance to renters navigating high rents and limited wage growth. It is also exempt from impacting other benefits, such as:
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Provincial rent supplement programs
This ensures broader accessibility for those who may not be on social assistance but are still in housing distress.
Program Details at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Amount | $600 (one-time, tax-free) |
| Application Start | July 15, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | October 31, 2025 |
| Payment Release | Mid-August 2025 |
| Income Limit | $35,000 (individuals), $55,000 (families) |
| Rent Requirement | Rent must be ≥30% of total household income |
| CRA Verification | Required |
Broader Impact and Expectations
Given soaring rent prices and low vacancy rates, especially in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, this benefit couldn’t be more timely. The 2025 housing top-up is expected to support up to 1.4 million Canadians, which is a 20% increase compared to previous housing aid programs.
This year’s application process has been simplified to help ensure that no eligible renter is left behind.
The $600 CRA Housing Benefit Top-Up 2025 is a vital measure in Canada’s ongoing battle against housing unaffordability. For low-income tenants, this isn’t just a short-term fix—it’s crucial financial help that could mean the difference between housing security and instability.
With applications opening on July 15, 2025, residents are urged to prepare early, ensure their 2024 tax returns are filed, and have all relevant rental documentation ready. With CRA’s quick turnaround, eligible applicants can look forward to receiving funds by mid-August.
FAQs
Is the $600 housing top-up taxable or will it affect my other benefits?
No, the payment is tax-free and will not affect any federal or provincial benefits you currently receive.
What if I don’t have access to the CRA My Account portal?
You can apply by phone with assistance from CRA’s support team if you meet accessibility or technical difficulty requirements.
Can two people from the same household apply for the top-up?
No, the benefit is limited to one payment per household, based on the primary leaseholder or filer.