Canada–Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit

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.

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.

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.

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.