How is SAFER calculated?

SAFER gives the most subsidy to people with the least income. The program reimburses part of the difference between 30% of your total income and your rent. Regardless of actual amount of rent paid, SAFER will only consider amounts up to maximum rent levels. Before October 1, 2005, the maximum rent levels, province-wide, were $520 for singles, $575 for couples, and $885 for people who share .

The maximum rent levels as of October 1, 2005 are:

 

Shared accommodation
The maximum rent level is divided by the number of adults living in a home. An adult is defined as anyone over the age of 19. For example, if a family with two adults lived in the Greater Vancouver Regional District, each adult would have a maximum rent ceiling of $975 divided by two or $487.50.

SAFER Calculator
To assist seniors in estimating their SAFER subsidy, BC Housing provides the SAFER calculator. This calculator provides an estimated subsidy only. The actual subsidy that a client may be eligible to receive will be confirmed once an application form has been received and processed by BC Housing staff.

The SAFER calculator is a Microsoft Excel document. Users must have Microsoft Excel to be able to use the calculator.

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