Government Housing Programs
Rent-Geared-to-Income Housing
-
Rent is calculated based on 30% of a household's gross income. Available in both public housing units and some private units.
-
Low-income individuals and families, including immigrants. Application through the centralized waiting list.
If you require emergency shelter, contact Central Intake at 416-338-4766.
Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB)
-
A monthly benefit that helps eligible households with low income afford rental housing in the private market.
-
Low-income households, including immigrants, who meet specific criteria.
To apply, search for your region's service manager through this link and give them a call
Affordable Housing for Ontario (IAH)
-
A monthly benefit that helps low-income households afford market rents by providing rent supplements or housing allowances..
-
Low-income households, including immigrants, who meet specific criteria.
To apply, contact your local municipal housing office to find out about the availability of programs under IAH in their area.
Ontario Works (OW) Housing Benefits
-
Provides financial assistance for housing costs, including rent, utilities, and other housing-related expenses, for individuals and families in financial need.
-
Low-income individuals and families, including immigrants.
To aply for Ontario works, use the link below
Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) Housing Benefits
-
Offers housing-related financial assistance for individuals with disabilities who have limited income.
-
Individuals with disabilities who meet income and asset criteria.
To apply for ODSP click this link
Co-Operative Housing
Subsidy (or rent supplement) is money that the government pays to help lower the housing charges for people with low incomes. Each co-op has an agreement with the government that outlines the amount of money available and who can qualify.
If you need a subsidy to help you pay for your housing:
-
In Toronto apply for subsidy through Access to Housing.
-
In York Region apply for subsidy through York Region Community Services and Housing.
-
In Durham Region apply for subsidy through Durham Access to Housing (DASH).
Municipalities administer the waiting lists for subsidized housing including many co-ops.
Home Buying Programs
The First-Time Home Buyer Incentive
-
The First-Time Home Buyer Incentive helped qualified first-time homebuyers reduce their monthly mortgage payments without adding to their financial burdens.
-
The First-Time Home Buyer Incentive was a shared-equity mortgage with the Government of Canada, which offered 5 or 10% of the home’s purchase price to put toward a down payment.