Rent Supplement Programs
Programs tied to the Tenant…
Do you have low income tenants that are struggling to make payments? They may be eligible for Rent Assist.
Rent Assist (formally Manitoba Shelter Benefit or RentAid) is a monthly benefit to help low income families and individuals, as well as people receiving income assistance (EIA).
If you are not on Assistance (EIA) and pay more than 28% of your income on private rental housing, then you may be eligible for Rent Assist. The amount of the benefit depends on household income and the monthly cost of renting. Check eligibility with this on-line estimator. Download the application form here. Winnipeg Office 100-114 Garry Street. Phone 204-945-2197 in Winnipeg; 1-877-587-6224 toll free. Email.
Rent Assist for individuals and families on EIA will be assessed when you apply. You will automatically get Rent Assist, as long as you keep meeting the requirements. Phone for EIA Rent Assist in Winnipeg: 204-945-4000. Toll free: 1-877-812-0014. Email.
School Tax Assistance for Tenants 55+. Rebates available for income-tested tenants over the age of 55 to offset the school tax portion of rent costs. If you are at least 55 years of age and have a household income of less than $23,800, then you are eligible for annual rebates of up to $175, payable once a year.
Programs tied to the rental unit…
The provincial government will enter into agreements with owners/operators of private rental stock to subsidize a portion of the units in the rental property. The Rent Supplement program is targeted at low-income families, elderly and special needs households to obtain affordable, adequate and suitable housing in the private rental sector and in non-profit affordable housing projects. The province subsidizes the difference between the approved market rental rate charged by the landlord and the rent-geared-to-income (RGI) paid by the qualifying tenant.
Who is eligible for the Rent Supplement Program?
Under the Regular program, an eligible tenant must:
- have a total household income less than the Housing Income Limit (HIL) set annually by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
- be a permanent legal resident of Canada
- be 18 years of age or older, and
- not be in receipt of any other shelter allowance or rental subsidy program assistance;
Under the Affordable Housing Initiative, an eligible tenant must:
- have a total household income less than the Housing Income Limit (HIL) set annually by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
- be a permanent legal resident of Canada
- be 18 years of age or older, and
- hold a valid Manitoba Health Registration Card bearing their name
How are Rent Supplement program benefits paid?
The amount of Rent Supplement is the difference between the RGI and the approved market rent for the affordable housing unit. The MHRC pays the housing project the monthly rent supplement and the tenant pays rent as usual.
Where do I get more information on the Rent Supplement program?
Request an application to be mailed to you or pick up an application at one of the Manitoba Housing Leasing Offices. Telephone: 204-945-3131. Toll free:1-800-661-4663. Email
You may also forward an application directly to the non-profit housing organization that offers the Rent Supplement Program depending on availability.