Guide to BC Rental Assistance Program (RAP)

Housing costs in British Columbia are among the highest in Canada, and many working families struggle to afford rent. The Rental Assistance Program (RAP) is a provincial program that helps eligible working families with the cost of rent. If you are a newcomer with children and are finding it hard to keep up with rental costs, RAP may be able to help. This guide explains how the program works, who is eligible, and how to apply.

What Is the Rental Assistance Program (RAP)?

The Rental Assistance Program is administered by BC Housing, the provincial agency responsible for subsidized housing and rental assistance in British Columbia. RAP provides a monthly cash payment to eligible working families to help bridge the gap between what they can afford and what they pay in rent. The program is designed specifically for families who are working but still cannot comfortably afford their rent due to high housing costs in BC.

RAP is different from subsidized housing. With RAP, you continue to live in your current private-market rental home and receive a monthly payment to help with the cost. For more information about housing options, see our guide on how to apply for rental housing in BC.

Who Is Eligible?

To be eligible for RAP, you must meet the following criteria:

• Family status: You must have at least one dependent child under 19 living with you.
• Employment income: At least one adult in the household must have employment income. This includes wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
• Income threshold: Your gross household income must be below the program's income threshold. The threshold varies depending on your family size and is updated periodically.
• Residency: You must be a resident of British Columbia.
• Immigration status: You must have legal status in Canada (Canadian citizen, permanent resident, convention refugee, or other eligible immigration status).
• Rental housing: You must be renting in the private market. You cannot be living in subsidized housing (such as BC Housing-operated buildings) or in housing provided by your employer.
• Rent amount: Your rent must be above a minimum amount (to ensure you are renting a legitimate dwelling).

For the most current eligibility criteria and income thresholds, visit the BC Housing RAP page.

How Much Can You Receive?

The amount of your RAP benefit depends on your family income, your rent, and the number of people in your household. The program uses a formula that calculates the difference between your actual rent and what the program considers affordable based on your income. The maximum monthly benefit varies and is adjusted periodically.

Families with lower incomes and higher rents relative to their income will generally receive higher benefits. The benefit is designed to bring your rent costs closer to an affordable level, typically defined as 30% of your gross income.

How to Apply

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, review the eligibility criteria on the BC Housing website to make sure you qualify. Pay attention to the income thresholds and the requirement for employment income.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

You will need the following documents for your application:

• Proof of identity for all adults in the household (such as a BC driver's licence, passport, or permanent resident card).
• Birth certificates or proof of age for all dependent children.
• Proof of income for all adults (recent pay stubs, Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency, or tax returns).
• Your rental agreement or lease.
• Recent rent receipts or proof of rent payments.
• Proof of BC residency (such as a utility bill or bank statement).

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

You can download the RAP application form from the BC Housing RAP page. Complete the form carefully, providing all requested information. You can also contact BC Housing by phone to request an application form by mail.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Submit your completed application form along with all supporting documents to BC Housing. You can submit by mail or by dropping off the application at a BC Housing office. Some documents may need to be submitted as original copies or certified copies.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

BC Housing will review your application and verify your information. This process can take several weeks. If additional information is needed, BC Housing will contact you. Once your application is processed, you will receive a letter with the decision.

Step 6: Receive Your Benefit

If approved, you will receive a monthly payment from BC Housing. The payment is made directly to you by cheque or direct deposit. You continue to pay your rent to your landlord as usual, but the RAP benefit helps offset the cost.

Renewing Your Benefit

RAP benefits are not permanent. You must renew your application periodically (typically annually). BC Housing will send you a renewal form before your benefit period expires. Make sure to submit the renewal form on time to avoid a gap in benefits. You will need to provide updated income and rent information with each renewal.

What If Your Situation Changes?

If your situation changes during the benefit period, you must notify BC Housing. Changes that could affect your benefit include:

• A significant change in household income (increase or decrease).
• Moving to a new rental unit.
• A change in family size (new child, a child turning 19, separation, etc.).
• Losing your employment.

SAFER: Rental Assistance for Seniors

If you are a senior (55 years or older) without dependent children, you may be eligible for the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) program instead of RAP. SAFER provides monthly cash assistance to eligible seniors who rent in the private market. The eligibility criteria and application process are similar to RAP. Visit the BC Housing SAFER page for details.

Other Housing Supports in BC

In addition to RAP, there are other housing supports available in BC:

• Subsidized housing: BC Housing operates subsidized rental housing for low-income individuals and families. Waitlists can be long, but it is worth applying.
• Homelessness prevention programs: Emergency funding may be available if you are at risk of losing your housing.
• Non-profit housing providers: Many non-profit organizations in BC operate affordable housing programs.

For newcomers looking at other financial supports, we have guides on buying your first home in Canada, disability services for newcomers, registering a vehicle in BC, the child care subsidy in BC, and workers' compensation for newcomers.

Tips for Newcomers Applying for RAP

• Make sure you have filed your Canadian income tax returns before applying, as BC Housing will verify your income through the Canada Revenue Agency.
• Apply as soon as you believe you are eligible. Processing takes time, and the sooner you apply, the sooner you can start receiving benefits.
• Keep copies of all documents you submit with your application.
• If you are having trouble finding affordable housing, contact BC Housing or a local settlement agency for advice.
• Remember that RAP is just one tool. Combine it with other supports to manage your housing costs effectively.

Final Thoughts

The Rental Assistance Program is a valuable resource for working families in British Columbia who are struggling with high rental costs. If you are a newcomer with children and you meet the eligibility requirements, applying for RAP can provide meaningful financial relief. Do not let the application process discourage you. The monthly benefit can make a real difference in your family's quality of life.

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