CLBC is now accepting applications for the Canada-BC Housing Benefit, available for individuals who are eligible for CLBC services and live in private market rentals. CLBC is administering this program, which is funded by the federal government’s Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) through BC Housing.
About the rental benefit
- Benefits are available for 50 individuals who are eligible for CLBC services and live in market rental housing.
- Market rental housing means you rent your home from a landlord, and your rent is not subsidized by government.
- Applicants will receive a maximum of $600 per month, based on their level of need.
- Applicants will be evaluated using a needs-based criteria, that prioritizes Indigenous applicants, applicants who are at risk of losing housing, applicants who are currently unhoused, applicants who are living with children, and/or applicants who are fleeing violence.
- CLBC will select applicants based on their level of need and when their application is submitted.
- Once 50 applicants have been selected, CLBC will hold additional applications in case a spot opens or more funding is provided to CLBC.
Am I eligible?
You are eligible if you:
- are eligible for CLBC services
- live in market rental housing and pay rent. You could also be moving into living in a market rental. Market rental housing means you rent your home from a landlord, and your rent is not subsidized by government.
- live independently or with some supports
- spend more than 30% of your gross monthly income on your rent. Gross monthly income means the amount of money you make in a month, before taxes.
- are up to date on filling your tax return. This means that you have completed your 2024 tax return.
- live in BC and are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada
You are not eligible if:
- you live in a rental that is paid for or subsidized by government at any level. This includes home sharing but does not include disability assistance/PWD.
- you own your home. This does not include a manufactured home where the applicant pays rent for the pad (site).
- you are renting a room or property from an immediate family member (your spouse, parents, children or siblings)
- you live in private assisted living or any residence where you pay for room and board
- your landlord increases your rent because you start receiving the benefit. The benefit must be used to increase your quality of life by making your rent more affordable.
- you are an employee of CLBC.
- you are eligible for Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) or the Rental Assistance Program (RAP).
Steps for applying
Step 1: Download and complete the application package
- You can download the Canada-BC Housing application package here. Note: Each household member age 19+ must provide proof of income in your application:
- Proof of income for employment: Three current, consecutive pay stubs or a letter from your employer (both options must include gross monthly salary/earnings)
- Proof of income for PWD: Income assistance cheque stub or Ministry Release of Information stating support and shelter.
- View the Proof of Income & Assets Guide from BC Housing here, for other proof of income options.
- If you are moving into a market rental and you do not have enough information to fill out your application, please email clbc.housingbenefit@gov.bc.ca for support. You do not need to currently live in a market rental to apply.
- Complete the information in the application package.
- Review the application checklist (page 5) to make sure you have completed every step.
- If you do not have someone in your support network who can help you, contact your local CLBC office for support.
Step 2: Fax your application package to CLBC
- To protect your personal information, application packages can only be sent to CLBC by fax.
- You, someone in your support network, or your service provider can fax your application package to the CLBC Housing Team at: 236-468-1007.
- Or you can e-mail the application package to 2364681007@fax.gov.bc.ca
- Read the Submitting your application: where to find fax services guide for support with this step.
- If you have questions or need help, contact CLBC’s Housing Team: clbc.housingbenefit@gov.bc.ca .
Step 3: CLBC reviews your application and contacts you
- Once CLBC has reviewed your application, you will receive a letter from us to let you know if your application is:
- approved
- denied
- being held in case more funding becomes available.
- If your application is approved, CLBC will let you know:
- The amount you will be receiving (maximum $600 per month).
- Next steps to receive your benefit, such as setting up direct deposit to receive the benefit in your bank account each month.
Need support?
- Questions can be sent by email to: clbc.housingbenefit@gov.bc.ca .
- For in-person, online or phone for support with your application, visit the Find Your Local CLBC Office page on our website.
- If you need help finding somewhere to fax your application, read the Submitting your application: where to find fax services guide.