Nicholas
As part of a national response to the growing housing affordability crisis, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed a $1,200 one-time housing benefit for eligible low-income renters.
Set to be distributed starting October 15, 2025, this tax-free payment aims to help individuals and families stay housed amid soaring rental costs.
With rents rising rapidly in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, the $1,200 CRA Housing Top-Up offers timely relief for those spending more than 30% of their income on rent.
What Is the $1,200 CRA Housing Top-Up?
The $1,200 housing top-up is a federal non-taxable one-time payment designed to assist low-income Canadians who face high rent burdens. It is part of the government’s broader mission to keep Canadians housed, especially during the winter season when eviction risk is even more dangerous.
The payment will be issued via direct deposit or cheque, depending on your CRA profile, and requires no action from prior housing benefit recipients with updated records.
Eligibility Criteria for the CRA Housing Boost
To qualify for the $1,200 payment, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a Canadian resident as of October 1, 2025
- Be 15 years or older
- Have filed a 2024 income tax return
- Have spent 30% or more of total income on rent during the last six months
- Provide proof of rental payments, such as lease agreements or receipts
- Meet income thresholds based on household composition
Income and Rent Thresholds
| Household Type | Maximum Income (2024) | Rent Must Be ≥30% of Income |
|---|---|---|
| Single Adult | $35,000 | Yes |
| Single Parent | $45,000 | Yes |
| Couple (No Children) | $50,000 | Yes |
| Family with Children | $55,000 | Yes |
If your rent and income match these conditions, you likely qualify for the full $1,200 payout.
When Will the Payment Be Made?
The CRA has announced that payments will begin on October 15, 2025. Depending on your circumstances, there are two groups of recipients:
1. Automatic Recipients
- Already received rent relief from CRA in the past year
- No change in CRA records
- No re-application needed
2. New Applicants or Those with Updated Information
- Must apply online via CRA MyAccount
- Will need to upload:
- Lease or rental contract
- Proof of rent payments (April–September 2025)
- Updated banking and tax info (if needed)
Why This Housing Boost Matters
With average one-bedroom rentals exceeding $2,000/month in several cities, the $1,200 payment can help Canadians:
- Avoid eviction or arrears
- Pay utility bills
- Reduce reliance on credit
- Afford food, medication, or transportation
Issuing the payment before winter helps prevent homelessness and housing instability at a critical time.
How to Prepare for Your Payment
To avoid missing out or facing delays:
- Log in to your CRA MyAccount
- Update your address and banking info
- Gather lease/rent receipts
- Ensure 2024 taxes are filed
Even if you miss the October 15 disbursement, retroactive applications will be accepted later—exact deadlines will be announced.
What Sets This Top-Up Apart?
This housing boost differs from past CRA rent supplements in several ways:
- Higher payout ($1,200 vs. $500 in past programs)
- Nationwide rollout
- Automated and streamlined CRA processing
- Targeted rent-to-income qualification criteria
It also aligns with ongoing federal strategies such as building affordable housing, expanding non-profit units, and strengthening renter protections.
The $1,200 CRA Housing Boost is more than just a one-time payment—it’s a critical tool in Canada’s fight against housing insecurity.
If you’re a low-income renter, now is the time to verify your eligibility and prepare for your October 15, 2025 payment.
By staying proactive—filing taxes, updating CRA info, and keeping rental records—eligible Canadians can ensure they receive the full benefit without delay.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1,200 CRA housing payment?
Residents who earn under the income threshold and spend 30%+ of income on rent, with tax and rent documents filed.
When will the payment be made?
Payments begin October 15, 2025 via direct deposit or cheque for eligible recipients.
Do I need to apply?
Only if your CRA records are outdated or if you’re a first-time applicant. Others will receive the payment automatically.