Nylie Nelson
In response to rising housing costs across Canada, the federal government has announced a temporary $600 top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB), starting July 15, 2025.
This additional support is aimed at helping low- and moderate-income renters struggling to meet the growing burden of rent.
Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the one-time $600 payment will offer critical relief for those spending a high proportion of their income on housing.
What Is the Canada Housing Benefit?
The Canada Housing Benefit is a federal-provincial initiative designed to assist renters facing affordability issues. It provides direct financial assistance to eligible households who pay 30% or more of their net income on rent.
While regular CHB amounts vary by province, the July 2025 top-up introduces a nationwide $600 extra payment to eligible claimants.
Who Qualifies for the $600 July 2025 Payment?
To receive the Canada Housing Benefit increase in July 2025, applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria:
- Be at least 15 years old as of July 1, 2025
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- Have filed a 2024 tax return
- Have a household income below the threshold for your province and household size
- Spend at least 30% of adjusted family net income on rent in 2024
This extra amount will complement provincial and territorial support programs, allowing broader and more efficient rent relief coverage.
Key Details – Canada Housing Benefit July 2025 Update
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-up Amount | $600 (one-time payment) |
| Disbursement Date | Begins July 15, 2025 |
| Administered By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Application Required? | Yes – via CRA My Account or paper application |
| Eligibility Review Period | June–July 2025 |
| Income Limit | Based on province, family size, and income from 2024 taxes |
| Proof Required | Rent receipts, lease agreement, and government-issued ID |
How to Apply for the $600 Housing Top-Up
Applying for this limited-time $600 payment is mandatory—unlike some benefits that are automatically deposited. Here’s how to complete your application:
- Log in to CRA My Account starting July 5, 2025
- Upload:
- Proof of rent paid in 2024 (receipts or lease agreement)
- Government-issued ID
- Your 2024 tax return
- Submit before the deadline (not yet announced but likely within 60 days)
Paper forms will also be accepted but may result in slower processing.
Why This Matters Now
Rental prices across Canada continue to surge, especially in urban hubs like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. Many renters already allocate more than 40% of their income toward housing.
The $600 CHB increase offers vital, albeit temporary, relief for households on the edge.
This one-time payment is not guaranteed to be repeated, making July 2025 a crucial window for qualifying Canadians to claim support and reduce rental stress.
The $600 Canada Housing Benefit top-up in July 2025 reflects the government’s acknowledgment of Canada’s worsening housing crisis.
Though temporary, this direct financial relief helps bridge the gap for vulnerable renters until more long-term affordable housing solutions are developed.
If you’re eligible, act now. Apply through CRA My Account, submit the required documents, and ensure you don’t miss this critical opportunity for support.
FAQs
Is the $600 CHB top-up automatic?
No. Eligible individuals must apply through CRA My Account or submit a paper application.
Can I apply if I’m under 18?
Yes, as long as you are 15 years or older by July 1, 2025, and meet all other criteria.
Will this $600 payment affect my other benefits?
No. The top-up is a non-taxable, one-time payment and won’t reduce or impact other government assistance.