Katherine Bell
In response to soaring rental costs and increased cost-of-living pressure across Canada, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has launched a $600 Housing Benefit Top-Up for 2025.
This one-time, tax-free payment is part of the federal government’s broader plan to ease the housing affordability crisis, especially for low- and modest-income renters.
The CRA Housing Boost 2025 targets those who are spending a large portion of their income on rent and may not qualify for traditional income support.
Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, application deadlines, and how to claim your $600.
Why Was the $600 Housing Top-Up Introduced?
As of 2025, housing affordability in Canada has reached critical levels, particularly in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, where rent has far outpaced income growth.
The federal government has responded with a targeted housing support measure meant to offer direct relief to those at risk of falling behind on rent.
This benefit specifically addresses:
- Rising housing costs
- Wage stagnation
- Rental stress for middle-tier earners
- Lack of access to other government housing subsidies
The $600 one-time payment provides flexible, fast support for people caught between working-class income levels and ineligibility for welfare programs.
Who Is Eligible for the $600 CRA Housing Boost?
To qualify, you must meet all the following requirements:
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes |
| Income Threshold (2024) | Under $35,000 (individual) / $55,000 (family) |
| Rent Requirement | Paid rent ≥ 30% of total household income |
| 2024 Tax Filing | Must have filed your 2024 tax return |
| Primary Residence | Rented property must be your main home |
The CRA will cross-check your 2024 tax filing and rental history to verify your eligibility. False claims may result in penalties or disqualification.
Application Dates and Process
The CRA has opened the application window for this benefit to ensure efficient processing and timely disbursement.
| Key Dates | Details |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | July 15, 2025 |
| Deadline to Apply | October 31, 2025 |
| Payments Begin | Mid-August 2025 |
How to Apply:
- Log in to your CRA My Account
- Confirm your 2024 income and rent paid
- Upload landlord details or lease agreement
- Certify that your information is accurate and complete
- Submit the application
Most eligible Canadians will receive their payments via direct deposit, ensuring faster access to funds.
How the $600 Housing Boost Will Help
This non-recurring, non-taxable payment provides:
- Immediate financial relief without affecting other federal or provincial benefits
- Added support for those slightly above traditional assistance eligibility
- A targeted solution for urban renters, where rental pressure is most severe
The CRA Housing Benefit is structured to assist renters who:
- Do not qualify for social housing
- Are working full- or part-time
- Are facing emergency rental costs or rent increases
Summary at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Amount | $600 (one-time, tax-free) |
| Application Period | July 15 – October 31, 2025 |
| Payment Start | Mid-August 2025 |
| Income Limits | $35,000 (individual) / $55,000 (family) |
| Rent Criteria | Rent must be ≥ 30% of 2024 income |
| CRA Verification | Yes – tax and rental info cross-checked |
How Shared Housing or Roommates Are Treated
Even if you live in shared accommodations, you can still apply if:
- Your share of the rent is at least 30% of your 2024 income
- Your income falls within the eligible limits
- You have documentation showing your portion of rent
The CRA evaluates applicants individually, not by household, allowing multi-tenant housing residents to qualify independently.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you fail to apply by October 31, 2025, you will not be eligible for the $600 payment. The CRA has emphasized that no deadline extensions will be offered.
To avoid missing out:
- File your 2024 tax return as early as possible
- Gather rent receipts or lease agreements
- Apply well in advance of the deadline
Why the $600 Boost Is Important Right Now
With rental vacancy rates at all-time lows and rent prices climbing sharply, many Canadians are feeling financially squeezed. This top-up helps fill the gap for:
- Working individuals and families
- Seniors living independently
- Single-income households struggling to make ends meet
More than 1.4 million Canadians are expected to benefit in 2025—a 20% increase over previous rent relief efforts. This underscores the growing demand for targeted housing aid.
The CRA’s $600 Housing Benefit Top-Up for 2025 is a critical relief measure for renters facing rising housing costs. With a simple online application, a generous income threshold, and no impact on other benefits, it’s one of the most accessible support programs in recent years.
If you’re struggling to keep up with rent, check your eligibility and apply early—before the October 31 deadline. In a time of rising inflation and shrinking budgets, every dollar counts.
FAQs
Is the $600 housing top-up taxable?
No. The payment is completely tax-free and does not affect other benefits like the CCB, GIS, or GST/HST credits.
Can I apply if I live with roommates?
Yes, if your individual portion of rent is 30% or more of your income and you meet the other eligibility criteria.
When will I receive the money?
If approved, most payments will begin mid-August 2025, especially for those applying in July or early August.