In a direct response to the surging housing costs nationwide, the Canadian federal government has announced a one-time $600 top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB), effective July 15, 2025.
This extra financial support aims to assist low- and moderate-income renters who are struggling to keep up with the escalating cost of rent, particularly in cities where housing affordability continues to deteriorate.
The payment will be administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and offers targeted relief for households spending a large portion of their income on shelter.
What Is the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB)?
The Canada Housing Benefit is a joint federal-provincial initiative aimed at easing rental stress for Canadians who are financially vulnerable. It provides direct financial support to those who pay 30% or more of their net income on rent.
While regular CHB amounts vary by province, the July 2025 top-up is a nationwide $600 payment meant to supplement existing rent aid. It recognizes the growing burden on renters, especially in high-demand urban areas like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
Who Is Eligible for the $600 Payment in July 2025?
To receive the $600 top-up, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the CRA:
- Be at least 15 years old as of July 1, 2025
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Have filed a 2024 tax return
- Have a household income below the threshold for their province and family size
- Have spent 30% or more of their adjusted family net income on rent in 2024
These conditions ensure that the payment reaches the most rent-burdened households, offering timely and focused relief.
CHB Top-Up Snapshot: Key Details
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Top-up Amount | $600 (one-time payment) |
Disbursement Date | Begins July 15, 2025 |
Administered By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
Application Required? | Yes – Online or paper application |
Eligibility Review Period | June–July 2025 |
Proof Needed | Rent receipts, lease agreement, government ID |
Income Threshold | Based on 2024 taxes, province, and family size |
How to Apply for the CRA $600 Rent Relief
Unlike some benefits that are automatically issued, this $600 housing top-up requires an application. Here’s how you can apply:
- Log in to CRA’s My Account starting July 5, 2025
- Upload the following documents:
- Proof of rent paid in 2024 (rent receipts or lease agreement)
- Government-issued ID
- Filed 2024 tax return
- Submit your application before the official deadline (expected within 60 days of opening)
Paper applications will also be accepted but may take longer to process, so digital submission is encouraged for faster results.
Why This $600 Benefit Is Urgent and Timely
Rental prices have climbed sharply across Canada, making it harder for renters to keep pace. In some metro areas, tenants are paying over 40% of their income just to stay housed.
The $600 CHB top-up offers temporary relief, but for many, it could make the difference between financial stability and housing insecurity.
While this is a one-time payment, it’s designed to fill a critical gap until longer-term housing policies take effect.
Provincial Support Still Applies
The Canada Housing Benefit top-up does not replace provincial rent support—it complements it. Eligible individuals can continue to receive their regular provincial CHB payments alongside the federal $600 top-up.
This combined assistance may offer more robust protection during a period of unstable rental markets and inflation-driven cost increases.
What Happens After July 2025?
As of now, there are no guarantees that this one-time payment will be repeated in 2026. That makes July 2025 a crucial window for renters to:
- File their taxes promptly
- Gather required documents
- Submit a complete application through CRA channels
Those who miss this window may lose access to this additional support.
FAQs
Q1. Is the $600 CHB top-up payment automatic?
No. You must apply through CRA My Account or send a paper application to receive it.
Q2. Can I apply if I’m under 18?
Yes. You must be at least 15 years old by July 1, 2025 and meet all other eligibility conditions.
Q3. Will this $600 payment affect my other benefits?
No. This is a non-taxable, one-time payment and does not impact your other government assistance programs.