$500 Housing Cash Arrives in May: Canada’s $500 housing cash benefit was a welcome relief for renters facing skyrocketing rent prices, inflation, and a housing affordability crisis. Originally launched as a one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit, this program helped low-income tenants struggling with rent costs. But in 2025, many are asking: Can I still get this money? What are my options now?
If you’re a renter in Canada, this article is your go-to guide. We’ll explain the current status of the $500 benefit, who qualified, what supports still exist in 2025, and what steps you should take next.
$500 Housing Cash Arrives in May
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Amount | One-time $500 top-up to Canada Housing Benefit |
| Original Application Period | December 12, 2022 – March 31, 2023 |
| Current Status (2025) | Closed – No new applications accepted |
| Who Was Eligible | Renters with 2021 income: ≤ $20,000 (individuals) or ≤ $35,000 (families) |
| Rent Threshold | Paid at least 30% of 2021 income on rent in 2022 |
| Residency Requirement | Resident of Canada in 2022, age 15+ |
| Ongoing Help | Regular monthly Canada Housing Benefit via provinces |
| Official Info | Canada.ca – Housing Benefit |
While the $500 housing cash benefit is no longer available in 2025, many renters still qualify for ongoing support. Whether it’s a monthly subsidy through the Canada Housing Benefit or provincial rent supplements, help is out there—you just need to know where to look.
Stay informed, avoid scams, and use official portals like CRA’s MyAccount to manage your housing-related benefits. If new top-ups are introduced in the future, having your tax filings and rent records ready will put you in a strong position.
Why the $500 Housing Benefit Was Introduced
This benefit was announced in Budget 2022 as part of the federal government’s response to Canada’s housing affordability crisis, which worsened due to inflation, stagnant wages, and a lack of affordable rentals.
At the time, rental inflation was above 6%, and low-income renters were disproportionately affected. The $500 top-up was meant to reach the most vulnerable Canadians, especially seniors, students, and low-income workers.
Eligibility for the $500 Housing Cash
The one-time housing benefit had clear criteria:
Income Requirements
- Individuals: 2021 net income of $20,000 or less
- Families: 2021 net income of $35,000 or less
Rent-to-Income Rule
- You had to pay at least 30% of your 2021 income on rent in 2022.
Other Requirements
- Be at least 15 years old
- Be a resident of Canada in 2022
- Filed a 2021 tax return
- Provided proof of rent, such as receipts or landlord letters
Real-Life Example: How It Helped
Case Study – Toronto, ON
Maya, a single mom working part-time in retail, earned $19,000 in 2021. She paid $950/month in rent for her apartment—more than 60% of her income. After applying for the $500 top-up in early 2023, she received the payment via direct deposit within 10 days. Maya used the funds to catch up on utility bills and buy essentials for her children.
Can You Apply for It in 2025?
No. The $500 housing cash was a one-time benefit only available between December 2022 and March 2023. There is currently no application or waitlist for this specific payment.
What If You Missed It?
There’s still help available—through ongoing provincial and federal housing programs.
Other Rental Assistance Programs in 2025
1. Canada Housing Benefit (Monthly)
Still active in 2025, this program provides monthly rent support to low-income renters. Administered by provinces and territories, it differs by location.
2. Provincial Support Programs
British Columbia – RAP
- For low-income families with children
- RAP Info – BC Housing
Alberta – Canada-Alberta Housing Benefit
- Ongoing rent subsidy
- Alberta Program Guide
Ontario – Housing Stabilization Fund
- Emergency help for rent or utility arrears
- Toronto HSF Info
Nova Scotia – CNT Housing Benefit
- Rent supplement for seniors, disabled, and families
What Might Happen Next? Future Policy Outlook
While there’s no formal announcement yet about another round of the $500 top-up, housing affordability remains a hot political issue in Canada.
With the next federal election on the horizon, new housing affordability measures may be introduced—especially if rent prices keep rising. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has projected housing shortages into 2026, which could influence policy action.
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How to Protect Yourself: Beware of Scams
Many fake websites and phishing emails have circulated pretending to offer the $500 housing benefit in 2025. Remember:
- The CRA never asks for payment or passwords via text or email
- Use official government links only
- Check for secure websites: always start with “https://”
Need Help Applying?
If you need assistance applying for provincial rental benefits:
Contact Government Helplines
- CRA Benefits Line: 1-800-387-1193
- Canada Housing Benefit Info: Contact your provincial housing authority
You can also visit local:
- Community centers
- Libraries
- Non-profits like ACORN Canada or RentSafeTO
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FAQs About $500 Housing Cash Arrives in May
Is the $500 housing benefit available in 2025?
No, the program closed in March 2023.
Will it return this year?
There’s no announcement yet.
What can I apply for instead?
Ongoing programs like the Canada Housing Benefit and provincial rental supplements.
What’s the income cap for current programs?
It varies by province, but typically under $30,000–$40,000 annual income for individuals.
How do I apply for monthly housing support?
Use your province’s housing website or go through Canada Benefits Finder.
