The rising cost of living continues to be a central concern for many Canadians, particularly those in the rental market. As 2026 begins, many residents are asking whether the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is still offering the $500 one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit or if new rent relief measures have taken its place.
The Status of the $500 One-Time Housing Benefit in 2026
To be direct: The specific $500 one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit is no longer active. This program was a temporary measure introduced by the federal government to address rental affordability during a specific period.
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According to official Canada.ca records, the application window for this $500 payment closed on March 31, 2023. The CRA is not currently accepting new applications for this specific one-time $500 amount, and there has been no official announcement to revive this exact program for the 2026 calendar year.
New Proposed Relief: The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit
While the $500 rent-specific top-up has ended, the federal government has proposed new measures for 2026 aimed at broader financial relief. In January 2026, the government introduced plans for the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (subject to Royal Assent).
This new initiative is designed to replace and expand upon previous cost-of-living credits. Key details include:
- One-Time Top-Up: A proposed one-time payment equal to 50% of the 2025-26 GST Credit value, intended for distribution by June 2026.
- Long-Term Increase: A permanent 25% increase to the benefit value for five years, starting in July 2026.
- Maximum Amounts: Eligible couples with two children could see a total increase of up to $805 for the 2026-27 benefit year, while single individuals without children may receive up to $402.
This benefit is intended to help with all day-to-day essentials, which for many households includes the pressure of monthly rent and utilities.
Active Housing Supports Available in 2026
Although the one-time $500 payment has concluded, the Canada Housing Benefit itself remains a vital, ongoing program. Unlike the one-time top-up, the standard benefit is co-funded and delivered through provincial and territorial governments.
Current active programs include:
- Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB): A portable monthly subsidy for eligible low-income households in Ontario.
- BC Rental Assistance Program (RAP): Provides monthly cash assistance to eligible low-income working families in British Columbia.
- Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit: A monthly supplement for renters paying more than 40% of their income on housing.
Each province manages its own eligibility criteria and application process. Renters are encouraged to check their specific provincial housing authority for active monthly supplements.
Important Warning: Beware of Disinformation
The CRA and the Department of Finance have issued alerts regarding disinformation and scams circulating online. False reports often claim that a new “fixed” rent relief payment (such as a $2,000 or $500 “new” deposit) is being issued automatically.
The CRA confirms that no such new $500 housing-specific payment has been launched for 2026. Always verify payment dates and benefit amounts through the official CRA benefits calendar.
Summary of 2026 Key Facts
| Feature | Status |
| $500 One-Time Top-Up | Closed (Ended March 31, 2023) |
| Proposed 2026 Relief | Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit |
| Eligibility Basis | 2024 and 2025 Tax Filings |
| Administration | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the $500 CRA rent relief payment available in 2026?
No, the $500 one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit ended on March 31, 2023, and is no longer active for new applicants.
What is the new 2026 benefit replacing the old top-ups?
The government has proposed the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, which includes a one-time 50% top-up to the GST credit value by June 2026.
How do I qualify for current housing assistance?
You must apply through your specific provincial or territorial housing program, as the CRA no longer manages a direct federal one-time rent application.
Ben Lee is a content writer specializing in government schemes and public benefit programs, delivering clear and up-to-date information to help readers understand eligibility, payments, and policy changes.