Housing
Shelter allowance
A portion of social assistance or disability support meant to help pay rent, utilities, or housing costs.
Actual shelter amounts may be capped, rent above the cap is often your responsibility.
Province or territory note
Named and calculated differently in each province.
The exact definition and rules can differ by program. Check the official rules for the benefit you are applying for.
Related terms
Housing
Housing benefit
A government payment or subsidy that helps low-income households pay rent or housing costs, often at provincial or municipal level.
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Multigenerational home renovation tax credit
A federal refundable tax credit for eligible renovations that create a secondary unit for a senior or adult with a disability in your home.
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Rent-geared-to-income (RGI)
Social housing rent calculated as a percentage of household income rather than market rent.
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