The Canada–Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit provides rent supplements to renters and help to homeowners so they can stay in their home. Renters who spend a large share of their income on the average market rent in their area can receive a monthly supplement; homeowners who spend more than half their income on housing costs can get help too.
Last reviewed: September 2026
Useful Tips for Applying
For renters, the 40% threshold is based on the average market rent in your area, not your actual rent, so check the local market rent figures. Complete the renewal form each year to keep the supplement. If you owe money to the housing department, set up a repayment plan before applying.
Who May Qualify
Renters may qualify if they live in Nova Scotia, spend more than 40% of their pre-tax household income on the average market rent in their area, have a household income below the current limit, rent an eligible unit, and do not live in public housing or already receive another rent supplement. Homeowners may qualify if they spend more than 50% of their pre-tax household income on housing costs.
Required Documents
Proof of Nova Scotia residency, Canadian citizenship or permanent resident or Ukrainian citizen status under CUAET, your lease or a rent increase letter (renters), household income information, and confirmation that you do not already receive another rent supplement or subsidized housing.
How to Apply
Renters apply for the rent supplement through the Nova Scotia government Targeted Housing Benefit page, providing a copy of your lease or a rent increase letter. Homeowners apply for help to stay in their home through the same program. You must renew each year to keep receiving it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is using the rent you pay instead of the average market rent in your area, which is what the renter threshold is based on. Another is not realizing you cannot receive this if you live in public housing or already get another rent supplement. People also miss that owing money to the housing department without a repayment plan can disqualify you.
Preparing an application?
The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.
Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador)
Independent Living Nova Scotia (ILNS) operates a federally funded Disability Benefits Navigation service. ILNS DTC Navigators provide free, bilingual, one-to-one support to help people with disabilities and their families across Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador) apply for the Disability Tax Credit and related federal and provincial benefits.
Plan Institute is a Canadian non-profit and registered charity that helps people with disabilities and their families plan for a good life. Its free national Disability Planning Helpline offers one-on-one support with the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), the Canada Disability Benefit, wills and trusts, and future and financial planning. Plan Institute also offers free webinars and online courses on the RDSP, DTC, and building personal support networks. The helpline is free, confidential, and available across Canada by phone, email, and online request form.
Languages: English, Interpretation in ASL and other languages on request
The GAIN Program (Guidance & Assistance in Navigating Disability Support) is a free service offered by Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC). VLRC's Disability Benefit Navigators provide one-to-one support to help people with disabilities understand and apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), and other federal, provincial and territorial credits and benefits, including help with appeals. Although operated by VLRC, the GAIN Program assists people with all disabilities, not only vision loss.
Accessible Compass is an independent guide — we are not a government agency and do not process applications or approve benefits. We provide general information only, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules may change. Always confirm with official government sources.
