A deal with the Feds and the Saskatchewan government is offering some relief for renters.
Changes to the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit (SHB) program, effective June 1st will allow eligible renters who pay 35 per cent or more of their pre-tax household income on rent and utilities to get the monthly benefit. The benefit amount is based on household size and how much income is paid toward shelter costs.
Authorities add that the amount of the monthly benefit has also been increased by $25 for households that spend between 35 to 45 per cent of their income on shelter, and by $75 for households that pay more than 45 per cent of their income on shelter. For example, a single person or couple living with a dependent who spends 35 per cent of their income on shelter will now receive $225 a month, while a single person or couple with two or more dependents who spends more than 45 per cent of their income on shelter will now receive $325 a month.
Also, the asset eligibility limit has increased to $300,000 and the previous rent limits have been removed.
The Saskatchewan Housing Benefit was co-developed and jointly funded by the federal and provincial government through the National Housing Strategy, with up to $11.5 million available in 2022-23.
Residents may get more information and apply online through the government’s website.