CRA Confirms $1500 Housing Boost for Renters, Are You Eligible for the Payment?

With housing affordability continuing to challenge millions of Canadians, the CRA $1500 Housing Benefit 2025 comes as a welcome relief. This federal one-time payment is meant to ease the financial burden of rent and shelter costs for low-income residents.

Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the benefit is part of a nationwide initiative to combat housing stress, especially in high-rent regions such as Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Calgary, where average rental prices continue to soar past $2,000 per month.

Let’s explore who qualifies, when payments start, and how to apply to receive this much-needed support.

Who Is Eligible for the CRA $1500 Housing Benefit in 2025?

To qualify for the CRA’s $1500 housing payment, applicants must meet strict income and rent criteria. This initiative specifically targets renters who spend a substantial portion of their income on housing.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a Canadian resident aged 15 or older as of December 31, 2024
• 2024 income must be:
• Below $38,000 for individuals
• Below $60,000 for families
• Rent paid in 2024 must be at least 30% of the adjusted net income
• You must have filed your 2024 tax return
• Provincial rent subsidy recipients may still qualify if their personal rent portion independently meets the 30% threshold
• You may be required to provide supporting documents, such as rent receipts, lease agreements, or bank statements during the application process

These criteria ensure the benefit reaches the most financially burdened renters, delivering support where it’s needed most.

When Will CRA $1500 Payments Be Made?

The CRA has announced that applications for the housing benefit will open on July 15, 2025, through the CRA My Account portal.

Payment Timeline:

• Applications Open: July 15, 2025
• Payments Begin: July 25, 2025
• Payment Method: Direct deposit or mailed cheque
• Processing Time: Typically 5–10 business days for direct deposit; paper cheques may take longer

The $1500 benefit is non-taxable and will not affect other income-tested benefits, including the Canada Child Benefit or GST/HST credit.

Full Breakdown of the CRA $1500 Housing Benefit 2025

Category	Details
Program Name	CRA $1500 Housing Benefit 2025
Individual Income Limit	$38,000
Family Income Limit	$60,000
Rent Requirement	≥ 30% of adjusted net income
Application Start	July 15, 2025
Payments Begin	July 25, 2025
Payment Method	Direct deposit or cheque
Taxable?	No
Affects Other Benefits?	No

This benefit aims to provide urgent relief in Canada’s most expensive rental markets, ensuring that low-income renters aren’t pushed further into financial distress.

CRA Application Tips to Speed Up Your Housing Benefit Claim

To avoid delays and maximize your chance of receiving the payment early, take the following steps:

• Log in early to your CRA My Account and verify that your banking information is accurate
• Collect all supporting documents, including:
• Rental agreements
• Monthly rent receipts or transfer proofs
• Ensure your 2024 tax return is filed before applying
• Apply as soon as the portal opens on July 15, 2025

Being prepared and proactive can help you receive your $1500 benefit quickly, especially through direct deposit.

Why This Benefit Matters in 2025

The CRA $1500 Housing Benefit 2025 is more than just a one-time payment—it’s a timely response to a worsening housing affordability crisis. With rent prices rising faster than incomes, especially in metropolitan areas, renters are under intense financial pressure.

This initiative recognizes the hardship faced by many Canadians and aims to provide quick, targeted relief to those most in need. It also avoids disrupting other financial supports, making it a complementary aid program rather than a replacement.

If you’re struggling to meet rent costs, this could be the support you’ve been waiting for.

Mark These Important Dates

If you meet the eligibility requirements, don’t miss out:

• July 15, 2025 – Application portal opens on CRA My Account
• July 25, 2025 – First round of $1500 payments begins

Gather your documents and log in early to ensure a smooth and speedy application process.

FAQs About the CRA $1500 Housing Benefit

Q1. Who can apply for the CRA housing benefit?
Any Canadian resident aged 15 or older who filed a 2024 tax return and meets the income and rent ratio conditions can apply.

Q2. Is the $1500 housing benefit taxable?
No. The benefit is non-taxable and does not affect other federal benefits.

Q3. Can I receive this benefit if I already get provincial rent support?
Yes. As long as your personal rent contribution is 30% or more of your adjusted net income, you remain eligible.