BC Housing – SAFER (Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters): Free, by phone or online. Who it's for: Age 60 or older; income under $40,000 a year; file an annual tax return; lived in BC for 12 months; pay more than 30% of gross monthly….
Categories: Financial Aid, Housing & Shelters, Seniors
If you are 60 or older, rent your home in BC and have a low income, SAFER can give you money each month to help pay rent. ▸ Who can get this? • You are 60 or older. • Your income is under $40,000 a year ($3,333.34 a month). • You pay more than 30% of your income before tax on rent. • You have lived in BC for the last 12 months. • You file a tax return every year. • You and your spouse are Canadian citizens, permanent residents or refugees (not under private sponsorship), or in Canada under CUAET (the Ukraine program). ▸ What you get • A monthly payment by direct deposit, at the end of each month. • The smallest payment is $50 a month. • The most rent counted is $1,150 (since April 2025), for singles and couples. ▸ How to apply 1. Download the form, ask for one by mail or phone, or pick one up at a BC Housing office. 2. Gather your documents (see below). 3. Upload them with the online Program Upload Form, mail them, fax them, or drop them off. ▸ What you need • Proof of income: let CRA share your tax information, or send your tax return and Notice of Assessment (NOA) • ID showing your birth date and status in Canada • Proof of rent, like your tenancy agreement or a recent rent receipt • A void cheque or direct deposit form Send copies only. ▸ Good to know • You cannot get SAFER if you are on income or disability assistance, live in subsidized housing, a co-op you own shares in, or a funded care home. • You must reapply every year. A form is mailed to you 3 months before your birthday. • Getting the bus pass or Seniors Supplement does not lower your SAFER. ▸ Contact Phone: 1-800-257-7756 or 604-433-2218 Fax: 604-439-4729 Mail: SAFER, BC Housing, 101-4555 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 4V8
Also known as: SAFER rent help seniors rent subsidy elderly renters older adults rent supplement BC Housing pension rent
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Community resources for Kelowna & West Kelowna