Alberta

Rent Supplement Program

Easy application

Tax filing required

The Affordable Housing Program’s Rent Supplement benefits helps make your housing rental more affordable. There are 2 types of benefits:

  • Rent Assistance Benefit
  • Temporary Rent Assistance Benefit

The Rent Assistance Benefit is a long-term benefit available to subsidize rent for Albertans with low income. Features are as follows:

  • It is paid directly to tenants
  • It is available through most housing management bodies across Alberta
  • Households are eligible if they are below local income thresholds
  • The amount you get is calculated based on household income and local market rent
  • Households are prioritized based on need
  • Your benefit may be renewed annually
  • There is no limit to benefit renewals if you are eligible.

The Temporary Rent Assistance Benefit provides a subsidy for working households with low income or those between jobs. Support is intended to help eligible tenants afford their rent while they stabilize or improve their situation. Features are as follows:

  • It is paid directly to tenants
  • It is available in Calgary, Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat and Red Deer
  • Households are eligible if they are below local income thresholds and are employed or have been employed in the last 24 months and are not receiving social assistance
  • The amount you get is calculated based on household size and location. This amount will be reduced in the second year
  • There is a 2-year limit to get this benefit. Your eligibility will be reassessed after the first year
  • Households are prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Households can reapply for rent assistance at the end of 2 years.

To be eligible for provincial affordable housing programs, you must have an income below local income limits as determined by the market for that community. Use the income thresholds document to see if your income qualifies.

You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Other applicable eligibility requirements from the housing provider may apply.

Applicants are given priority based on need. Priority of need is based on many things, including:

  • Income
  • Assets
  • Number of dependants
  • Current housing condition

Proof of housing situation

For example:

  • letter from landlord about your housing situation
  • eviction notice
  • disconnection notice
  • police report about an incident involving your housing
  • moving company quote or invoice
  • list of repairs needed in home
  • list of expenses for renovations needed for independence in the home
  • proof of home ownership (mortgage, property ownership)

Social Insurance Number

For example:

  • confirmation of SIN letter
  • plastic SIN card (non-expired)

To apply for the Affordable Housing Program, you will need to follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Fill out the survey and answer a few simple questions
  • Step 2: Find and select a housing provider
  • Step 3: Contact the housing provider for an application.

To learn more, visit the how to apply page on the government website and contact your local housing provider for availability.

Last updated: December 7, 2021