NWT Housing Benefit
The Canada-NWT Housing Benefit and Public Housing Program help low-income NWT residents afford housing. The Canada-NWT Housing Benefit provides up to $800 per month toward rent for households paying more than 30% of their gross income on rent, and Public Housing offers income-based assistance in Housing NWT-owned units in 31 communities.
Apply early for Public Housing, since placement is based on need and availability in your community. For the Canada-NWT Housing Benefit, confirm you pay more than 30% of your gross income on rent, which is the main eligibility test. Ask which program fits your situation, since they serve different housing situations.
You may qualify for the Canada-NWT Housing Benefit if you are an NWT resident paying more than 30% of your gross household income on rent, with a subsidy of up to $800 per month. You may qualify for Public Housing if you are a low-income NWT resident in one of the 31 communities with Housing NWT-owned units, with rent set based on income.
Proof of NWT residency, household income information, and (for the Canada-NWT Housing Benefit) proof of your rent and that you pay more than 30% of your gross income on rent.
Apply for the Canada-NWT Housing Benefit through Housing NWT if you pay more than 30% of your gross household income on rent. For Public Housing, apply through your local Housing NWT office to be placed based on need and availability.
A common mistake is not applying early, since there can be a waitlist for Public Housing. Another is not realizing the Canada-NWT Housing Benefit is for private-market renters paying over 30% of income on rent. People also miss that the two programs serve different situations, so ask which fits you.
The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.
NWT Income Assistance
The NWT Income Assistance Program provides financial help to Northwest Territories residents 19 and older whose income cannot cover their basic needs, including food, shelter, clothing, and other essentials. It offers enhanced support for people with disabilities and seniors, with expanded eligibility options since July 2025.
View detailsNWT Homeowner Repair Program
The NWT Homeowner Repair Program helps low- and modest-income homeowners pay for essential home repairs to keep their homes safe and livable. It provides forgivable loans of up to $50,000 for eligible repairs, with a co-payment for households above a set income.
View detailsNWT Child Benefit
The NWT Child Benefit is a tax-free payment to help low- and modest-income families with the cost of raising children under 18. It is combined with the federal Canada Child Benefit and paid together, with the full amount going to families with the lowest income and a partial benefit for higher incomes.
View detailsFree disability-benefits navigation services are available if you'd like help understanding or applying for this benefit.
Yellowknife, NT
The NWT Disabilities Council exists to educate, advocate, and support the self-determination of all individuals with disabilities in the Northwest Territories. It is the territorial cross-disability organization supporting NWT residents with disabilities and their families.
National
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
National
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.
Languages: English, French
Application denied?
If your application is turned down, the Appeals Guide explains filing deadlines, escalation levels, and where to find free legal and advocate help.
The NWT Disabilities Council exists to educate, advocate, and support the self-determination of all individuals with disabilities in the Northwest Territories. It is the territorial cross-disability organization supporting NWT residents with disabilities and their families.
View detailsGovernment of the Northwest Territories programs and services for persons with disabilities, coordinated through the Department of Health and Social Services.
View detailsAccessible 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.
