NewsIncreased Funding for Tenants: RAP and SAFER Updates
BC Expands RAP and SAFER Rental Assistance Programs in 2025
The BC government has announced major enhancements to two key rental assistance programs—RAP (Rental Assistance Program) and SAFER (Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters)—aimed at providing better support to low-income families and seniors.
These changes took effect on April 1, 2025, as part of the province’s 2025 budget. News release: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025HMA0022-000287
What Is RAP?
The Rental Assistance Program (RAP) offers monthly financial support to families with children under 19 who rent in the private market and earn below a certain income threshold. The amount provided depends on rent levels, household income and other criteria. BC Housing has a quick and simple calculator to help you determine if you can qualify and how much rent assistance you can receive.
Rental Assistance Calculator:
https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/rental-assistance-programs/rap-safer-calculator
2025 Changes to RAP:
- The income eligibility cap is increasing from $40,000 to $60,000 (pre-tax household income).
- As a result, the average monthly benefit will rise from approximately $400 to $700.
- Removed requirement for employment income, if other eligibility requirements are met
What Is SAFER?
The Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) program helps low- to moderate-income seniors aged 60+ afford private-market rents by providing monthly cash assistance.
2025 Changes to SAFER:
- Increase in household income limit from $37,240 to $40,000
- As a result, the average monthly benefit is expected increase from $251 to $337
These are helpful changes to expand support for tenants and families in BC. Renter subsidies such as RAP and SAFER are an efficient way of helping tenants because they are flexible and able to be applied to any rental unit in any location. This allows tenants more freedom to choose their rental accommodations that best suites their needs when it comes to cost, location, and amenities. This is preferable to limiting tenants to specific rent controlled or social housing units. Rental support is very widespread in Germany which we wrote about in a previous blog post.
Disclosure/Disclaimer:
This blog is published by Habit8 Property Management, licensed property managers in British Columbia. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, tax, or other professional advice. While we strive to ensure accuracy, the content reflects our understanding as of the date of publication and may not account for future changes in laws, regulations, or market conditions. You should consult appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on this content.
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