With rising rent costs and inflation pressures across Canada, many renters are asking: Will there be another $500 Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) top-up in 2025? While no new $500 payment is confirmed this year, the CHB continues to offer monthly rent relief for low- and moderate-income households.
This article explains everything you need to know about the CHB in 2025—including eligibility criteria, how to apply, payout dates, and what’s changed since the $500 top-up in 2023.
Overview of $500 CHB Payment in 2025
| Program Name | Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) |
| $500 One-Time Top-Up | Issued in 2023 only; no new top-up announced for 2025 |
| Ongoing Benefit | Monthly rent support via provincial housing programs |
| Eligibility | Income-tested, rent burdened (30 %+ of income toward rent) |
| Application | Through local/provincial housing authorities |
| Taxable? | No, CHB is non-taxable income |
| Official Source | CMHC – Canada Housing Benefit |
What Is the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB)?
The Canada Housing Benefit is a federal housing support program delivered in partnership with provinces and territories. It offers direct rent assistance to eligible renters, helping ease the burden of housing costs. Unlike social housing, CHB is portable, meaning you can use it with any private market rental.
It forms part of the National Housing Strategy, Canada’s 10-year plan to combat housing affordability and reduce homelessness.
What Happened to the $500 CHB Payment?
In 2023, a one-time $500 CHB top-up was offered to help low-income renters hit hardest by inflation. Eligibility included:
• 2021 Income under $20,000 (individual) or $35,000 (families)
• Paid 30% + of income on rent in 2022
2025 Update: As of now, no new $500 payment has been announced. However, monthly CHB support continues across provinces.
CHB Eligibility in 2025 (General Guidelines)
Eligibility may vary by province, but generally includes;
• Low or moderate income
• Spending 30% or more of gross income on rent
• Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Must reside in the province where applying
• May not be living in subsidized or public housing
Common Documents Needed:
- Proof of income (e.g., tax returns, Notice of Assessment)
- Proof of rent (lease agreement or rent receipts)
- Government-issued ID
- Proof of address/residency
Province-by-Province CHB Program Examples
🔹 Ontario – Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB)
• Must be on or eligible for the social housing waitlist
• Portable across rental units
• Amount based on household income and market rent
🔹 British Columbia – Canada-BC Housing Benefit
• Applies to renters spending 30%+ of income on housing
• Requires a referral from BC Housing or a partner agency
🔹 Quebec – Shelter Allowance Program
• Offers up to $170/month for seniors or families with children
• Administered by Revenu Québec
🔹 Nova Scotia – Targeted Housing Benefit
• Direct payments are issued monthly
• Payout dates available in advance (see below)
CHB Payment Dates (Sample – Nova Scotia)
| Month | Payout Date |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | December 28, 2024 |
| February 2025 | January 30, 2025 |
| March 2025 | February 27, 2025 |
| April 2025 | March 28, 2025 |
Other provinces follow monthly or quarterly schedules based on approval timelines.
How to Apply for CHB in 2025?
✅ Step-by-Step Application Process:
-
Check eligibility on your province’s housing website
-
Prepare documentation (ID, rent proof, income verification)
-
Contact your local housing office or apply online
-
Wait for approval—processing time varies
-
Receive monthly support via direct deposit if approved
Tip: Some provinces require referrals from housing support agencies. Others allow direct applications.
Has Anything Changed for 2025?
• No new federal top-up of $500 announced
• Core CHB continues unchanged through provinces
• Rent relief remains tied to income-rent ratio thresholds
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is the $500 CHB payment available again in 2025?
A: No. The one-time $500 top-up was offered in 2023 only. It hasn’t been renewed in 2025.
Q2. How much is the monthly CHB payment?
A: It varies by province. In Ontario, for example, it bridges the gap between 30% of income and market rent.
Q3. Do I need to reapply every year?
A: In most provinces, yes. You’ll typically need to confirm your income annually.
Q4. Will CHB affect my taxes or other benefits?
A: No. The Canada Housing Benefit is non-taxable and does not interfere with other federal benefits.
Q5. Can I receive CHB if I live in shared housing?
A: Yes, as long as you have a formal rental agreement and meet income/rent criteria individually.
Final Thoughts
While there’s no new $500 payment in 2025, the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) continues to offer much-needed rent support for thousands of Canadians. Understanding how your province delivers CHB, checking your eligibility, and applying with complete documents can significantly ease your monthly housing burden.
📌 Stay connected with your local housing authority for updates, deadlines, and new housing-related announcements in 2025.
