STEP 1: Confirm your eligibility

You may be eligible for the Rental Assistance Program if you meet the following criteria: 

  •  Some or all of your annual household income must come from employment. 
  •  You have a gross annual household income of $35,000 or less.
  •  You have at least one or more dependent children.
  •  You have less than $100,000 in assets.
  •  You file an annual income tax return.
  •  You pay more than 30 per cent of your household income towards rent for your home, or pay pad rental for a manufactured home (trailer) that you own and occupy.
  •  You have lived in British Columbia for the full 12 months immediately preceding the date of application.
  •  You meet the residency requirements for the program.
You will not be eligible for the Rental Assistance Program if:

  • You or your family receive income assistance under the B.C. Employment and Assistance Act or the Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities Act (excluding Medical Services only). 
  • Your annual gross household income is over $35,000. 
  • You have more than $100,000 in assets.  
  • You live in subsidized housing. 
  • You live in co-operative housing and are a shareholder. 
  • You or a member of your family do not meet the residency requirements  or came to Canada under a private sponsorship agreement that is still in force.  
  • You own a home that you do not live in. 
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, the next step is to  complete an application form.