As the cost of living continues to climb across Canada, the CRA $1,500 housing benefit for 2025 offers a lifeline to renters struggling with rising expenses.
Set to launch in July 2025, this federal one-time housing support will be distributed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to eligible low- and middle-income Canadians.
This article breaks down who qualifies, when you’ll get paid, and what you need to do to claim the benefit.
Who Qualifies for the CRA $1,500 Housing Benefit in 2025?
To receive the full $1,500 housing benefit, applicants must meet specific criteria set by the CRA:
- Be a Canadian resident aged 15 or older by December 31, 2024.
- Have filed a 2024 tax return before applying.
- Total income must be below $38,000 for individuals or $60,000 for families.
- Paid at least 30% of your 2024 adjusted net income in rent.
- Can still qualify if receiving provincial rent subsidies, as long as your portion of rent meets the 30% threshold.
Applicants will need to show proof of rent, such as lease agreements, rental receipts, or bank statements confirming payments.
When Will the $1,500 Housing Payments Begin?
The CRA has officially announced the timeline:
- Applications open: July 15, 2025
- Payments begin: July 25, 2025
Once your application is approved, direct deposits may take 5–10 business days, while mailed cheques might take longer. Applicants are strongly encouraged to sign up for CRA My Account and activate direct deposit to receive funds faster.
Breakdown of Rent Support 2025
Here is a detailed breakdown of the benefit’s core details:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | CRA $1,500 Housing Benefit Canada 2025 |
| Income Eligibility | <$38,000 (individuals), <$60,000 (families) |
| Rent Requirement | 30%+ of 2024 income spent on rent |
| Application Opens | July 15, 2025 |
| Payments Begin | July 25, 2025 |
| Distribution Method | Direct deposit / Mailed cheque |
| Is It Taxable? | No |
| Affects Other Benefits? | No (e.g., GST/HST, CCB remain intact) |
This non-taxable housing benefit is intended to complement existing provincial and federal supports without interfering with them.
How to Apply for the CRA Housing Aid
To ensure a smooth process, follow these documentation and submission tips:
- Verify banking details through your CRA My Account.
- Collect proof of rent for 2024 (receipts, bank transfers, signed leases).
- Report all household income accurately in your 2024 return.
- Apply early once the application portal opens on July 15.
This benefit is designed to be hassle-free and quick, but missing documentation could delay your payment.
The CRA $1,500 Housing Benefit in 2025 stands as a critical tool in supporting Canadians during a period of soaring housing costs.
By focusing on low- and modest-income households, and simplifying the application through CRA infrastructure, the program aims to deliver much-needed relief quickly and efficiently.
Canadians should act promptly—file taxes, prepare documents, and apply early to ensure timely access to this one-time payment.
FAQs
Who can apply for the CRA $1,500 housing benefit?
Canadian residents aged 15+ who meet income limits and paid at least 30% of their 2024 income on rent can apply.
Is the $1,500 housing benefit taxable?
No. This benefit is non-taxable and won’t impact your eligibility for other income-tested benefits.
Can I qualify if I receive other rent subsidies?
Yes. As long as your out-of-pocket rent meets the 30% income requirement, you’re still eligible.