How rent-geared-to-income works in New Brunswick
Rent-geared-to-income means a tenant's rent is set as a percentage of their household income or according to an income-based formula used by the subsidy program or housing provider. The provincial body that oversees residential tenancy matters and subsidy eligibility in New Brunswick is the Residential Tenancies Tribunal[1], and the governing statute is the Residential Tenancies Act for New Brunswick[2]. Local housing providers may apply the same basic principles but can have specific application forms and deadlines.
What income is usually counted
- Salary, wages, and regular employment income.
- Government benefits such as Employment Insurance, CPP/OAS, child benefits, and provincial income supports.
- Alimony, spousal support, and regular financial support from others.
- Income from self-employment, pensions, and investment earnings.
Some items may be excluded or partially counted depending on the program rules. Always ask your local housing office how they treat one-time payments or inconsistent income.
Common deductions and allowable expenses
- Allowable disability-related expenses or medical deductions when supported by receipts.
- Childcare costs that are necessary for a household member to work or study (program-dependent).
- Reasonable work-related expenses if the subsidy rules specifically allow them.
How to apply or dispute an RGI calculation
Most applications or disputes start with your housing provider or the office that administers the subsidy. You may need to complete an official application form or file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to resolve disagreements about a calculation or eligibility. Official forms and the Tribunal provide step-by-step directions and required supporting documents[3]. If you are unsure, contact the tribunal office or your housing provider to confirm which form to use.
Practical tenant steps before you apply
- Gather pay stubs, benefit statements, tax notices, and receipts for deductions.
- Ask your housing office for the correct application form and a checklist of required documents.
- Note any filing deadlines and submit your application with time to correct missing items.
- Prepare to pay any adjusted rent once your RGI is confirmed, and keep records of payments.
When to get legal or advocacy help
If the Tribunal process is needed or you face eviction for non-payment while disputing an RGI decision, consider contacting tenant advocacy services for advice. Keep copies of all correspondence, decisions, and receipts in case you need them at a hearing or appeal.
Key documents and forms (what to look for)
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal — used to start a dispute about rent calculations or other tenancy issues; follow the form instructions and include supporting income documents.
- Official subsidy application forms from local housing providers — used to apply for RGI subsidies and to declare household income.
Useful internal resources
For practical guidance on paying and documenting rent, see Tenant''s Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips and for an overview of local rights refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick. If you need to look for an alternate rental while you sort subsidy questions, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for listings and neighbourhood tools.
FAQ
- What income counts when calculating RGI in New Brunswick?
- Most regular household income counts, including wages, pensions, government benefits, and support payments. Some programs allow specific deductions such as disability-related expenses or approved childcare costs.
- How long does it take to get an RGI decision?
- Processing times vary by housing provider and tribunal caseload; you should ask your local office for estimated timelines and file promptly with complete documents to avoid delays.
How-To
- Check eligibility, gather proof of income and receipts for any claimed deductions.
- Complete the appropriate application form and attach all required documents.
- Submit the application to your housing office or the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attend any scheduled interview or hearing.
- Pay adjusted rent as directed and keep records of payments; if denied, follow appeal or review steps provided by the tribunal.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- New Brunswick Housing and Shelter Services - official forms and programs
