Alberta Rent Subsidy Programs

Find financial assistance to help with your housing costs through Alberta's rental subsidy programs and benefits.

Understanding Rent Subsidies in Alberta

The Government of Alberta, in partnership with the federal government and local housing authorities, offers several programs to help Albertans who struggle with housing costs. These programs aim to reduce the financial burden on low and moderate-income households by:

  • Providing direct financial assistance to help pay rent
  • Offering below-market rental rates in designated housing units
  • Supporting both short-term and long-term housing needs
  • Targeting assistance to various demographics including families, seniors, and individuals

Eligibility for these programs is primarily based on household income, with specific thresholds that vary by location and family size. Most programs also consider assets, current housing conditions, and special circumstances when determining eligibility.

Available Rental Subsidy Programs

Rent Supplement Program

Provider: Government of Alberta

Description: Provides financial assistance to households in need by subsidizing a portion of their rent.

Eligibility: Low-income households; eligibility based on income thresholds that vary by region

How to Apply: Apply through local housing management bodies or Alberta Seniors and Housing

Learn More

Rental Assistance Benefit

Provider: Government of Alberta

Description: Long-term assistance for households with low income who cannot afford modest and adequate rental accommodation.

Eligibility: Core housing need; income below local income thresholds; asset limits apply

How to Apply: Apply through local housing management bodies

Learn More

Canada-Alberta Housing Benefit

Provider: Federal/Provincial

Description: Joint program that helps households struggling to pay their rent with financial assistance.

Eligibility: Low to moderate income households; must be paying more than 30% of income on rent

How to Apply: Apply through Alberta Seniors and Housing or local housing providers

Learn More

Near Market Rent Program

Provider: Various Housing Management Bodies

Description: Provides rental units at 10-20% below market value to eligible households.

Eligibility: Moderate income households; income must be within specified limits

How to Apply: Apply directly to participating housing management bodies

Learn More

Temporary Rent Assistance Benefit

Provider: Government of Alberta

Description: Short-term assistance for households with modest income who need temporary support.

Eligibility: Working households or those expected to return to work; time-limited support

How to Apply: Apply through local housing management bodies

Learn More

Application Tips

Applying for rental assistance in Alberta can be competitive. Here are some tips to improve your chances:

  • Apply early: Many programs have waitlists, so submit your application as soon as possible
  • Complete documentation: Ensure you provide all requested financial documents, identification, and references
  • Be specific about needs: Clearly communicate any special circumstances or urgent housing needs
  • Stay in contact: Follow up periodically to check your application status
  • Consider multiple programs: Apply to all programs for which you might qualify

Remember that most housing subsidy programs in Alberta require annual income verification and reassessment of eligibility, so keep your information current and be prepared to provide updated documentation when requested.

Save More with RentPlay

With RentPlay's SuperSaver system, supporting local Alberta businesses means getting rewarded. Report your rent monthly (1st-4th) to unlock SuperSaver mode, which gives you 2X points (1000 vs 500) on your first 5 receipt uploads from partner stores. After your SuperSaver uses are gone, you earn regular 500 points per receipt. Absolutely ZERO fees for renters!

Even if you receive rental assistance, RentPlay can help stretch your budget further through everyday savings.

Make Renting Work for You

With RentPlay's SuperSaver system, supporting local Alberta businesses means getting rewarded. Report your rent monthly (1st-4th) to unlock SuperSaver mode, which gives you 2X points (1000 vs 500) on your first 5 receipt uploads from partner stores. After your SuperSaver uses are gone, you earn regular 500 points per receipt. Absolutely ZERO fees for renters!

Join our Beta Today

Important Disclaimers

The information provided about rental subsidy programs is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. While we strive to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or availability of the information.

RentPlay is not affiliated with any government agency or housing authority. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about rental assistance programs, please contact the relevant government agencies or housing authorities directly.

Eligibility criteria, application processes, and program details may change without notice. Any reliance you place on the information provided through RentPlay is strictly at your own risk. We strongly recommend verifying all information with the official program administrators before making any decisions or taking any actions.