CRA Confirms $1,500 Housing Relief for Renters – Check If You’re Eligible Now

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has officially confirmed a $1,500 one-time housing benefit for low- and moderate-income renters across the country.

As the cost of rent surges in major cities and beyond, this new benefit aims to ease financial pressure and promote housing stability.

If you’re currently renting and struggling with affordability, this relief payment may offer much-needed help.

Let’s explore who qualifies, how to apply, and when payments are expected.

Why the $1,500 Housing Benefit Is Crucial

With rent prices reaching record highs in 2025, particularly in metropolitan areas like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, many Canadian renters are spending more than 30% of their income on housing—a threshold that marks financial vulnerability.

The Canada Revenue Agency $1,500 housing boost is part of the federal government’s National Housing Strategy, designed to address this affordability crisis directly.

This benefit:

• Provides immediate relief to renters facing inflationary pressures
• Targets low- and moderate-income groups
• Requires no taxation or repayment
• Reflects an urgent response to Canada’s housing insecurity

Who Qualifies for the $1,500 Housing Benefit?

Eligibility for the Canada Revenue Agency housing relief payment depends on a few important factors:

Eligibility Criteria

Requirement	Details
Residency	Must be a Canadian resident
Rental Status	Must have paid rent for your primary residence during the eligible year
Income Threshold	Must fall under low to moderate income brackets (exact limits vary)
Proof of Rent	Rent receipts or lease may be requested
Student Eligibility	Students who pay their own rent can apply individually

Roommates, students, and shared housing residents are encouraged to apply independently if they meet the income and rent requirements.

How to Apply for the CRA Housing Boost

The application process is simple and digital, available through your CRA My Account.

Steps to Apply:

1. Log in to your CRA My Account
2. Go to the Housing Benefit application section
3. Fill in your rental and income information
4. Submit your application and upload documents if prompted

Make sure your banking details and personal info are updated in your Canada Revenue Agency profile for smooth payment processing.

How and When Will You Get Paid?

Once your application is submitted and approved, the CRA will issue a one-time payment of $1,500 either through direct deposit or mailed cheque.

Payment Breakdown:

• Amount: $1,500 (tax-free)
• Method: Direct deposit (preferred) or cheque
• Payment Schedule: Begins shortly after application approval
• Deadline: To be announced—check CRA website regularly

Applicants should apply early and keep all rental documentation ready in case of follow-up verification by the CRA.

Key Notes and Clarifications

Question	Answer
Is the $1,500 taxable?	No, this is a non-taxable benefit
Will I need to submit rent receipts?	Not during application, but CRA may request them later
Can students apply?	Yes, if they meet income and rent criteria
How to check updates?	Log in to CRA My Account or visit the official CRA website

The CRA’s $1,500 housing boost for renters comes at a crucial time as affordability continues to impact millions of Canadians.

Whether you’re a student, senior, or single renter, this benefit offers a direct and meaningful response to rising rental costs.

Ensure your CRA profile is accurate, 2024 taxes are filed, and you’re ready to apply once the application window opens.

With a straightforward process and impactful payout, this initiative could be the difference that helps you maintain housing stability during financially challenging times.

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