Can I get help paying my rent as a senior?
Last checked:
Rent help for seniors comes from the provinces and territories. Most offer a monthly rent benefit for low-income renters, a tax credit for rent paid, or housing where rent is based on income. What you can get depends on where you live, your age, your income and how much of it goes to rent.
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Which describes your home?
Do you live in Quebec?
Quebec's shelter allowance is also open to owners and boarders. Most other rent help is only for tenants.
Where do you live?
Which province do you live in?
Which one?
Which province do you live in?
Which province do you live in?
Which territory do you live in?
Did you pay rent in Ontario in 2025?
The Ontario credit paid from July 2026 is based on your 2025 tax return.
On your 2025 tax return, was your adjusted family net income $36,309 or less?
This is where the credit starts to go down for a single senior. Adjusted family net income is your net income, plus your spouse's or partner's, from line 23600 of your returns, with a few changes the Canada Revenue Agency makes.
Likely eligible
You can likely get the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit.
Why
Renters can get this credit, which is part of the Ontario Trillium Benefit. For July 2026 to June 2027 it pays seniors up to $1,488, based on your 2025 return. 20% of the rent you paid in 2025 counts toward it. For a single senior, it starts to go down at adjusted family net income of $36,309.
What to do next
- Fill in the ON-BEN form with your tax return and report the rent you paid. Keep your rent receipts.
- Amounts over $500 are paid monthly starting July 10, 2026, unless you chose one June payment.
- If rent takes a large share of your income, also ask your local service manager about the social housing waiting list. Being on it is needed for the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit, a monthly benefit where seniors are a priority group.
- Questions about the credit: call the Canada Revenue Agency at 1-800-959-8281.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
You may get a smaller Ontario credit.
Why
The Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit pays seniors up to $1,488 for July 2026 to June 2027, based on your 2025 return. For a single senior it starts to go down at adjusted family net income of $36,309. If your income is higher, you may get a smaller amount or none.
What to do next
- Fill in the ON-BEN form with your tax return and report the rent you paid. The Canada Revenue Agency works out the amount.
- If you have not filed your 2025 return, file it now.
- If rent takes a large share of your income, ask your local service manager about the social housing waiting list and the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit.
- Questions about the credit: call the Canada Revenue Agency at 1-800-959-8281.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Claim your 2026 rent on next year's tax return.
Why
The Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit is based on the rent you paid in the year before. Rent you pay in 2026 counts on your 2026 return, filed in 2027.
What to do next
- Keep your rent receipts, or ask your landlord for a yearly statement.
- File your 2026 tax return with the ON-BEN form.
- If rent takes a large share of your income, ask your local service manager about the social housing waiting list and the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit. You can find your service manager on ontario.ca.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Will you be 50 or older by September 30, 2027?
On December 31, 2025, did you have $50,000 or less in liquid assets?
Liquid assets are things like money in the bank that you can use quickly. Revenu Québec decides what counts.
Do you live alone or as a couple?
Was your 2025 family income $23,600 or less?
Was your 2025 family income, yours and your spouse's or partner's together, $33,100 or less?
Likely eligible
You likely qualify for Quebec's shelter allowance.
Why
The Shelter Allowance Program pays up to $170 a month from October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027. The full amount goes to a person 50 or older with 2025 family income of $23,600 or less, or a couple 50 or older with $33,100 or less, who spend at least 30% of their income on housing and had liquid assets of $50,000 or less on December 31, 2025.
What to do next
- Apply in My Account for individuals on the Revenu Québec website, or on form LEX-165-V, by September 30, 2027.
- Renew every year.
- Questions: call Revenu Québec at 1-855-291-6467.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
You may get a smaller shelter allowance.
Why
Quebec's shelter allowance pays the full amount, up to $170 a month from October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027, to a person 50 or older with 2025 family income of $23,600 or less, or a couple with $33,100 or less. Reduced amounts go to people with slightly higher incomes.
What to do next
- Apply anyway in My Account for individuals or on form LEX-165-V, by September 30, 2027. Revenu Québec works out the amount.
- Questions: call Revenu Québec at 1-855-291-6467.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
You likely do not qualify for Quebec's shelter allowance.
Why
The shelter allowance is for people who spend at least 30% of their income on housing and had liquid assets of $50,000 or less on December 31, 2025. Your answer shows one of these rules is not met.
What to do next
- Check again if your income, rent or savings change.
- If you own your home, look at Quebec's grant for seniors to offset a municipal tax increase.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
Quebec's shelter allowance starts at 50.
Why
The shelter allowance is for people who are 50 or older by September 30, 2027, or who have a dependent child.
What to do next
- If you have a dependent child, you may still qualify. Call Revenu Québec at 1-855-291-6467.
- Come back to this check in the year you turn 50.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
You may qualify. Revenu Québec decides.
Why
Quebec's shelter allowance pays up to $170 a month from October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027. It is for tenants, owners and boarders who are 50 or older by September 30, 2027, spend at least 30% of their income on housing and had liquid assets of $50,000 or less on December 31, 2025. The full amount goes to a single person with 2025 family income of $23,600 or less, or a couple with $33,100 or less.
What to do next
- Look at your 2025 notice of assessment for your income, and add up a year of rent or housing costs.
- Call Revenu Québec at 1-855-291-6467 and ask whether you qualify.
- You can apply until September 30, 2027.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Are you 60 or older?
BC's rent benefit for seniors starts at 60. You do not need to wait until 65.
Is your gross income $40,000 a year or less?
Gross income is your income before tax is taken off.
Likely eligible
You likely qualify for SAFER.
Why
Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) helps people 60 or older who rent in the private market, have gross income of $40,000 a year or less and pay more than 30% of it in rent. You must also have lived in BC for 12 months and file a tax return each year. Since April 2025, the most rent SAFER counts is $1,150 a month, and the smallest payment is $50 a month.
What to do next
- Apply to BC Housing at 1-800-257-7756. You must reapply every year.
- You may also get the BC renter's tax credit, up to $400 for 2025. Claim it on form BC479 with your tax return.
- SAFER is not available if you get income or disability assistance.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
SAFER likely does not fit, but check BC's renter's tax credit.
Why
SAFER is for people 60 or older with gross income of $40,000 a year or less who pay more than 30% of it in rent. The BC renter's tax credit has a higher income limit. It pays up to $400 for 2025, goes down by 2% of adjusted income over $64,764 and ends at $84,764 (for 2026: $66,189 and $86,189). You must have rented for at least six months of the year.
What to do next
- Claim the renter's tax credit on form BC479 with your tax return.
- If your age, income or rent changes, check SAFER again. Call BC Housing at 1-800-257-7756.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Your income and rent decide this.
Why
SAFER helps people 60 or older who rent in the private market, have gross income of $40,000 a year or less and pay more than 30% of it in rent. Since April 2025, the most rent SAFER counts is $1,150 a month.
What to do next
- Find your total income on your latest notice of assessment and compare it with a year of rent.
- Call BC Housing at 1-800-257-7756 and ask whether you qualify.
- Claim the BC renter's tax credit on form BC479 with your tax return. It pays up to $400 for 2025.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Are you 65 or older?
We cannot tell from your answers
You may qualify for Alberta rent help or seniors housing.
Why
Alberta's Rent Assistance Benefit is a monthly benefit for low-income tenants, based on income and local market rent. Seniors 65 or older who can live on their own can also apply for seniors self-contained housing, where rent is based on 30% of adjusted income, or a seniors lodge, which includes meals and housekeeping.
What to do next
- Use the province's Find Housing tool to pick a local housing provider, and apply to them.
- Questions: call Alberta Supports at 1-877-644-9992.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
You may qualify for Alberta's Rent Assistance Benefit.
Why
The Rent Assistance Benefit is a long-term monthly benefit for low-income tenants, based on income and local market rent. Seniors housing in Alberta starts at 65.
What to do next
- Use the province's Find Housing tool to pick a local housing provider, and apply to them.
- Questions: call Alberta Supports at 1-877-644-9992.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Is your household's before-tax income $43,100 or less?
This is the limit for singles and couples from July 1, 2026.
Likely eligible
You likely qualify for the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit.
Why
The Saskatchewan Housing Benefit is for renters who spend 35% or more of their before-tax income on rent and utilities. From July 1, 2026 it pays $210 to $270 a month for singles and couples with income up to $43,100. Your assets must also be under $300,000.
What to do next
- Call 1-844-787-4177 to apply.
- Have your lease or rent receipts, utility bills and latest notice of assessment ready.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
You likely do not qualify for the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit.
Why
From July 1, 2026, the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit is for singles and couples with before-tax income up to $43,100 who spend 35% or more of it on rent and utilities.
What to do next
- If you are 55 or older and live in a smaller community, ask Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (1-800-667-7567) about its seniors rental housing.
- Check again if your income or rent changes.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Your income and rent decide this.
Why
From July 1, 2026, the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit pays $210 to $270 a month to singles and couples with before-tax income up to $43,100 who spend 35% or more of it on rent and utilities, and have assets under $300,000.
What to do next
- Find your income on your latest notice of assessment and add up a year of rent and utilities.
- Call 1-844-787-4177 and ask whether you qualify.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Who lives in your home?
Is your net income under $33,920?
Net income is on line 23600 of your tax return.
Is the net income of you both together under $38,720?
Net income is on line 23600 of your tax returns.
Likely eligible
You likely qualify for Manitoba Rent Assist.
Why
Rent Assist helps low-income renters in private housing. When we checked in October 2026, net income had to be under $33,920 for a single person 55 or older, or under $38,720 for two people. You cannot get it if you rent from Manitoba Housing or get another housing benefit.
What to do next
- Call Rent Assist at 1-877-587-6224, or 204-948-7368 in Winnipeg.
- Also claim the Renters Affordability Tax Credit on your tax return: up to $625 for 2026, with a seniors top-up of up to $357.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Rent Assist likely does not fit, but claim the renters tax credit.
Why
When we checked in October 2026, Rent Assist was for net income under $33,920 for a single person 55 or older, or under $38,720 for two people. Manitoba's Renters Affordability Tax Credit is up to $625 for 2026, with a seniors top-up of up to $357.
What to do next
- Claim the Renters Affordability Tax Credit on your tax return.
- If your income drops, call Rent Assist at 1-877-587-6224.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
You may qualify. Rent Assist decides.
Why
Rent Assist helps low-income renters in private housing. When we checked in October 2026, net income had to be under $33,920 for a single person 55 or older, or under $38,720 for two people. We do not have the limits for other households.
What to do next
- Call Rent Assist at 1-877-587-6224, or 204-948-7368 in Winnipeg, and ask whether you qualify.
- Claim the Renters Affordability Tax Credit on your tax return: up to $625 for 2026, with a seniors top-up of up to $357.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
New Brunswick's main rent benefits are closed to new applicants.
Why
When we checked in October 2026, the Direct-to-Tenant Rent Benefit and the Canada-New Brunswick Housing Benefit were not taking new applications. Housing NB still runs the Rent Supplement Program, which pays the gap between what you pay and the unit's market rent, and public housing.
What to do next
- Ask Housing NB about the Rent Supplement Program and public housing.
- Call 211 for help applying.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
You may qualify for a Nova Scotia rent supplement.
Why
Nova Scotia's rent supplement and the Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit pay a monthly amount based on household size, income and rent, up to the area's average market rent.
What to do next
- Call 1-833-424-7711 and ask whether you qualify.
- For public housing, contact the Nova Scotia Provincial Housing Agency, or call 211.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Which describes you?
Is your household income $41,000 or less?
From April 24, 2026, the limit is $41,000 for a one-bedroom unit and $26,500 for a bachelor unit.
Likely eligible
You likely qualify for PEI's Seniors Housing Program.
Why
The Seniors Housing Program is for people 60 or older, or 55 or older with a disability. It offers government apartments where most tenants pay 25% of household income in rent, with heat included, and rent supplements in private buildings. From April 24, 2026, income limits are $26,500 for a bachelor and $41,000 for a one-bedroom.
What to do next
- Call PEI Housing Services at 1-877-368-5770 to apply.
- Ask about rent supplements if you want to stay in your current building.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
Your income is likely above PEI's seniors housing limit.
Why
From April 24, 2026, the Seniors Housing Program's income limits are $26,500 for a bachelor and $41,000 for a one-bedroom.
What to do next
- Check again if your income drops.
- Look at PEI's heating help, which has its own income rules.
Your answers
More help
- Can I get help with my heating or power bills as a senior?
- Read our full guide: Rent and housing help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Your household income decides this.
Why
PEI's Seniors Housing Program is for people 60 or older, or 55 or older with a disability. From April 24, 2026, income limits are $26,500 for a bachelor and $41,000 for a one-bedroom.
What to do next
- Find your income on your latest notice of assessment.
- Call PEI Housing Services at 1-877-368-5770 and ask whether you qualify.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
PEI's seniors housing starts at 60.
Why
The Seniors Housing Program is for people 60 or older, or 55 or older with a disability.
What to do next
- Ask PEI Housing Services at 1-877-368-5770 about other housing help.
- Call 211 to find local help with rent.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
You may qualify for NLHC's Rental Housing Program.
Why
The Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation's Rental Housing Program serves seniors and others with low income who pay more than 30% of their income on rent and heat. Rent is 25% of net monthly income.
What to do next
- Apply through your regional NLHC office.
- Ask how long the wait is, and tell the office whenever your phone number, address or income changes.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Have you lived in Yukon for at least 3 months?
We cannot tell from your answers
You may qualify for the Canada-Yukon Housing Rental Benefit.
Why
The benefit helps renters who are not getting another housing benefit, have income under the limit for their unit size and assets under $100,000. Old Age Security, the Guaranteed Income Supplement and pensions count as qualifying income.
What to do next
- Call Yukon Housing at 867-667-5712 or 1-800-661-0408 and ask about the income limit for your unit size.
- Have your lease and latest notice of assessment ready.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
Not yet. You need 3 months in Yukon.
Why
The Canada-Yukon Housing Rental Benefit is for people who have lived in Yukon for at least 3 months.
What to do next
- Come back to this check once you have lived in Yukon for 3 months.
- Call 211 to find local help with rent in the meantime.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
You may qualify for the Canada-NWT Housing Benefit.
Why
The Canada-NWT Housing Benefit helps renters who pay more than 30% of their gross income in rent. Housing NWT also runs public housing with income-based rent.
What to do next
- Contact your Housing NWT district office and ask whether you qualify.
- Ask about public housing at the same time.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Ask your Local Housing Organization.
Why
In Nunavut, public housing is managed by your community's Local Housing Organization. The Canada-Nunavut Housing Benefit is for homeowners only.
What to do next
- Contact your Local Housing Organization about public housing.
- Questions: call the Nunavut Housing Corporation at 1-844-413-9355.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
You already get rent help. Some other benefits may not apply.
Why
In social or subsidized housing, rent is usually based on your income. Getting one benefit can block another. For example, BC's SAFER is not available to people in subsidized housing, and Manitoba Rent Assist is not available to people who rent from Manitoba Housing.
What to do next
- File your tax return every year. Your rent is usually worked out from it.
- Tell your housing office whenever your income or health changes.
- Ask the Canada Revenue Agency (1-800-959-8281) whether you can still claim a rent tax credit where you live.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
Most rent help is for tenants.
Why
Outside Quebec, the rent benefits and rent tax credits in this check are for people who rent their home. Owners can get help with property tax instead.
What to do next
- If you own your home, use our property tax check.
- If you board or live with family and pay rent, ask your provincial housing office whether you count as a tenant, or call 211.
Your answers
More help
- Can I get help with my property tax as a senior?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Rent and housing help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Where these rules come from
- Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) (BC Housing)
- Ontario Trillium Benefit (Government of Ontario)
- Are You Eligible for the Shelter Allowance? (Revenu Québec)
- Rent Assist (Government of Manitoba)
- Saskatchewan Housing Benefit (Government of Saskatchewan)
- Seniors Housing Program (Government of Prince Edward Island)