With the cost of living on the rise across Canada, many renters are feeling the financial pressure of higher housing costs. To help ease this burden, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has introduced a one-time $340 Rent Relief Payment for eligible renters in 2025. While not a long-term fix, this payment offers timely assistance to low- and moderate-income households struggling with rental expenses.
Here’s everything you need to know—eligibility, how to apply, payment dates, and more.
CRA $340 Rent Relief Payment
This payment is a federal initiative to support renters facing steep housing costs. It’s separate from other housing benefits and is targeted at individuals who meet specific income and residency requirements.
Key Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $340 (one-time payment) |
| Eligibility | Renters aged 18+ with low-to-moderate income who filed taxes in 2023 |
| Application Process | Automatic for most; some may apply via CRA online |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or cheque |
| Expected Payment Date | Spring–Summer 2025 (exact dates TBA) |
| Related Programs | Canada Housing Benefit |
| Official Website | CRA Rent Relief Program Details |
Why Rent Relief Is Needed
Canada’s rental market has become increasingly unaffordable, particularly in urban centres like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. According to a 2023 CMHC report, the national vacancy rate is at a historic low, leading to more competition and higher rents.
To address these challenges, the CRA’s $340 rent relief payment helps qualifying renters manage their housing costs while complementing longer-term support like the Canada Housing Benefit.
Who Can Qualify?
To receive the $340 payment, you must meet several conditions:
1. Age and Residency
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or legal resident with refugee or protected status
2. Rental Status
- Must be renting a home, apartment, basement suite, or room as your primary residence
- Rental arrangements must be verifiable, such as through lease agreements or receipts
3. Income Level
The benefit is geared toward low-to-moderate income earners. Eligibility is based on your 2023 tax return:
- Single individuals with lower income
- Families with income levels under specific provincial thresholds
- CRA will assess your income based on the return filed for 2023
4. Tax Filing
You must file your 2023 tax return by June 30, 2025, to be considered. This is how CRA verifies income, residency, and eligibility for the payment.
5. Other Subsidies
Those already receiving significant rental assistance (such as fully subsidized housing) may not qualify for this payment.
How to Apply
In most cases, the payment is issued automatically to eligible individuals. But here’s the full process to be sure you receive it:
Step 1
Submit your return by the deadline. Even if you had no income, filing is necessary to be considered.
Step 2
After filing, log in to your CRA My Account to see if you’re eligible. Notifications or letters may be issued confirming qualification.
Step 3
If you haven’t done so already, set up direct deposit in your CRA account for faster access to your payment. Otherwise, a cheque will be mailed to your registered address.
Step 4
Payments are expected to begin in Spring or Summer 2025. No official date is confirmed yet, so keep checking CRA updates and your My Account portal.
Related Support
If you need ongoing help with rent, the Canada Housing Benefit is another federal program worth considering. It provides monthly payments to eligible renters and is available across all provinces and territories. Each region manages its own application process, so visit your provincial housing website for specific details.
Additional Resources for Renters
Many provinces offer additional rental or housing assistance. For example:
- Ontario: Offers the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit
- British Columbia: Has a Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) program
- Quebec: Provides targeted housing assistance for low-income renters
Check with your local government for extra support.
Financial Planning and Budgeting
If you’re consistently struggling with rent, consider working with a non-profit financial counselor. Organizations like Credit Counselling Canada offer free help with budgeting and managing expenses.
Know Your Rights as a Tenant
Renters have rights under provincial laws. These include protections against sudden rent increases or unjust evictions. Contact your provincial tenancy board to know more about rent controls and tenant protections in your area.
The $340 CRA Rent Relief Payment in 2025 won’t solve the housing crisis, but it can provide real, short-term help for those feeling squeezed by rising rent. If you’re eligible, make sure your taxes are filed, your CRA information is current, and your direct deposit is active.
For longer-term help, consider applying for the Canada Housing Benefit and explore local rent assistance programs. Staying informed, filing your taxes, and checking your CRA account regularly will ensure you don’t miss out on support when you need it most.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $340 rent payment?
Renters aged 18+ with low-to-moderate income who filed 2023 taxes.
Do I need to apply for the CRA rent payment?
Most will receive it automatically if eligible.
When will the payment be issued?
Spring or Summer 2025. Exact dates to be confirmed.
Can I receive both rent relief and Canada Housing Benefit?
Yes, if you meet eligibility criteria for both.
How will the payment be delivered?
Via direct deposit or mailed cheque, based on CRA account settings.
