NU Housing Benefit
The Canada-Nunavut Housing Benefit helps low-income Nunavut residents afford rent by financing the difference between 24% of the recipient's household income and the market rent. The average monthly benefit is significant, given Nunavut's high housing costs, and supports households most in housing need.
Apply early, since there can be a waitlist. The benefit covers the difference between 24% of your household income and market rent, which can be significant in Nunavut, so confirm your rent and income. It is for market renters, so if you are in public housing, ask about that program instead.
You may qualify if you are a Nunavut resident with a low income who pays market rent. The benefit finances the difference between 24% of your household income and the market rent, with the average monthly benefit being significant.
Proof of Nunavut residency, household income information, and proof of your market rent and that you pay more than 24% of your household income on rent.
Apply through the Nunavut Department of Family Services Homelessness Initiatives or Canada-Nunavut Housing Benefit program. You must be a Nunavut resident with a low income who pays market rent.
A common mistake is not applying early, since there can be a waitlist. Another is not knowing the benefit covers the difference between 24% of your household income and market rent, which can be significant in Nunavut. People also miss that the benefit is for market renters, not public housing tenants.
The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.
Nunavut Income Assistance
Nunavut's Income Assistance Program provides financial help to residents 18 and older in financial need, covering basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing. It includes enhanced support for people with disabilities and seniors, with people 60 and older exempt from the work requirement.
View detailsNunavut Household Allowance
A housing allowance for eligible Government of Nunavut employees toward the cost of housing.
View detailsNunavut Daycare Subsidy
Child-care assistance for eligible low-income Nunavut parents who are working, in training, or in education.
View detailsFree disability-benefits navigation services are available if you'd like help understanding or applying for this benefit.
Iqaluit, NU
NDMS is the territorial organization that offers support, advocacy, education, and resources for Nunavummiut with disabilities. It is the main cross-disability organization supporting Nunavut 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.
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.
