If you send us a complete application and are entitled to the shelter allowance, it will be paid to you by cheque or direct deposit. If you haven't signed up for direct deposit and you want to receive your allowance that way, you can sign up quickly in My Account for individuals or file a Request for Direct Deposit (LM-3-V).

The allowance is based on your family income, your family situation and the percentage of your income you spend on housing. To find out how to calculate this, see Calculating the Percentage of Your Income You Spend on Housing.

If you apply between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026, the shelter allowance will be paid retroactively. You will receive the amounts you were entitled to since October 1, 2025, with your first payment.

Unreduced amount

Percentage of your family income spent on housing	Amount for the year
30% to 49%	$1,200$ ($100/month)
50% to 79%	$1,800 ($150/month)
80% or more	$2,040 ($170/month)

Reduced amount

For every dollar by which your family income for 2024 exceeds the maximum for an unreduced amount, a dollar is subtracted from your amount for the year (see Are You Eligible for the Shelter Allowance?).

Percentage of your family income spent on housing	Amount for the year
30% to 49%	Up to $1,199
50% to 79%	Up to $1,799
80% or more	Up to $2,039

The payment frequency depends on the amount of your allowance. Note that we do not make payments of less than $2.