*Important Update*
The Métis Rent Supplement program has been incredibly successful this year and is now fully subscribed. Due to high demand, we are limiting applications and creating a waitlist for citizens interested in enrolling. Only applications that are considered fully complete (including all supporting documents) will be placed in the queue. Unfortunately, we are unable to give a specific timeframe for processing other than the position of the applicant’s complete application in the queue. Click here for more information.
The Métis Rent Supplement Program (MRSP) supports low-income Métis renter citizens with rent supplement payments for a temporary period. Individuals and Families spending more than 30% of their household income on rent may qualify for a payment up to a maximum of $475 a month. The payments are delivered to the applicant through an electronic funds transfer (EFT).
In the sixth month, the applicant must complete and submit a housing needs questionnaire to MNBC which will allow MNBC to determine continued eligibility for the program. The questionnaire will also allow MNBC to identify additional MNBC services or programs that may help move individuals and families toward rent stability.
The MRSP is a non-taxable benefit. It’s recommended that citizens report payments received through this program to the appropriate organization as it may affect other social assistance payments.
Program Eligibility Criteria:
The applicant must:
- be an MNBC citizen, verified by providing a copy of their MNBC citizenship card;
- be a resident of BC for at least one year, verified by providing one piece of Government of BC issued photo identification, including: BC Identification Card (BCID) or Driver’s License;
- be in affordability need, which means the applicant’s household is spending more than 30% of their gross annual household income on rent;
- have a total gross annual household income of $54,000.00 or less. The most current Notice of Assessment (NOA) from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is the only acceptable proof of income. Please provide the most current NOA for all household members 19 years of age or older. If you do not have your Notice of Assessment, you can obtain one by logging into your CRA My Account at My Account for Individuals - Canada.ca or calling CRA at 1-800-959-8281; and
- provide their current Residential Tenancy Act (RTA) compliant Rental Agreement from their landlord.
Applicants are ineligible if any of the following apply:
- if they are living in subsidized housing (i.e., BC Housing, CMHC or non-profit housing society);
- if they are currently receiving a rental subsidy/supplement from another organization, such as BC Housing’s Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) and Rental Assistance Program (RAP);
- if they are receiving Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS);
- if they are receiving financial support from another Ministry of Housing Program or wraparound support from STEPS;
- if they own property.