In a continued effort to ease the housing crisis, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has approved a $600 Housing Benefit Top-Up for August 2025.
This one-time, tax-free payment is part of the federal government’s ongoing housing affordability strategy and is aimed at low- and moderate-income renters struggling with increasing rental costs across the country.
As applications open in July 2025, here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, application deadlines, and how to receive your payment.
Who Qualifies for the $600 Housing Benefit Top-Up?
To receive the CRA $600 housing benefit top-up, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes |
| Income Limit | Below $35,000 (individuals) or $55,000 (families) |
| Rent Threshold | Paid ≥30% of income toward rent in 2024 |
| Primary Residence | Rented property must be your primary home |
| Tax Filing | Must have filed a 2024 income tax return |
The CRA will verify all information through tax filings and may request rental agreements or receipts to confirm details. False or misleading information may disqualify you from receiving the benefit.
Application Process & Timeline
The application portal for the $600 housing top-up opens on July 15, 2025, and closes on October 31, 2025. You can apply digitally through your CRA My Account or by phone for accessibility assistance.
Steps to Apply:
- Log into CRA My Account
- Navigate to the Benefits and Credits section
- Complete the Housing Top-Up application
- Submit details of rent paid and landlord information
- Certify all provided data is accurate
Payments will begin rolling out mid-August 2025, with direct deposit being the fastest delivery method.
Benefit Details at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Amount | $600 (one-time payment) |
| Taxable? | No – this is a non-taxable benefit |
| Affects Other Benefits? | No impact on GIS, CCB, or provincial support |
| Application Opens | July 15, 2025 |
| Payment Date | Mid-August 2025 |
| Deadline to Apply | October 31, 2025 |
Why the $600 Top-Up Matters in 2025
With rent prices surging in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, and inflation still biting into disposable income, renters continue to face pressure. The CRA’s $600 housing top-up is more than a short-term solution—it’s a lifeline for nearly 1.4 million eligible Canadians, offering crucial relief during tough economic times.
Unlike ongoing subsidies, this lump-sum top-up does not impact other benefits and helps prevent eviction risks or housing instability, especially for seniors, students, single parents, and low-income earners.
The $600 Housing Benefit Top-Up for August 2025 is a strategic move by the federal government to combat rental hardship in Canada.
With easy application access, broad eligibility, and quick payment turnaround, this CRA-administered support gives thousands of households the relief they urgently need. Apply early and ensure your tax and rent records are in order to secure this benefit.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the $600 housing benefit top-up in August 2025?
You must be a Canadian resident with income below the set threshold, have filed a 2024 tax return, and paid at least 30% of your income on rent.
Will the $600 payment impact my other federal benefits?
No. This top-up is non-taxable and will not affect your GIS, Canada Child Benefit, or any other provincial or federal aid.
How do I apply for the benefit if I don’t have online access?
You can contact CRA by phone to request a paper application or receive help submitting through alternate methods.