Low-Income Rental Assistance Programs in New Brunswick

If you’re a tenant in New Brunswick struggling to afford rent, help is available. The province offers a range of rental programs aimed at supporting low-income individuals and families, making safe and stable housing more accessible to all. This guide explains the main options, who can apply, how to access assistance, and your key rights as a New Brunswick tenant.

Rental Assistance Programs for Tenants in New Brunswick

New Brunswick’s public rental assistance programs fall under three main categories: rent subsidies for private units, social housing, and supportive programs for people with special needs. Each has different eligibility criteria and benefits. Below is an overview of what is available, how to apply, and where to find more information.

Rent Supplement and Affordable Rental Programs

• Rent Supplement Program (RSP): Provides a subsidy so eligible tenants pay no more than 30% of their income on rent in private market units. This benefit is paid directly to landlords.
• Affordable Rental Housing Program: Offers lower-than-market rents in approved buildings for low-income seniors, families, and individuals.

Who is eligible: Generally, New Brunswick residents with annual household incomes below certain thresholds (which change yearly and by location). Priority is often given to seniors, persons with disabilities, and families with children.

To learn more or to see if you qualify, visit the New Brunswick Social Development – Housing Programs page.

Public and Non-Profit Housing

• Public Housing: Operated by the provincial government, these units offer rent-geared-to-income housing for those with low incomes. Rent is typically set at 30% of adjusted household income.
• Non-Profit and Co-operative Housing: Run by non-profit groups, these communities often have their own application processes and eligibility.

Both options provide stable, affordable housing, but wait lists can be long, especially in major centres.

Supportive and Specialized Housing Programs

• Special Needs Housing: For individuals facing homelessness, living with disabilities, or requiring support due to age or health.
• Emergency Housing: Temporary, government-supported accommodation for tenants experiencing a housing crisis. Available via regional offices.

How to Apply for Low-Income Rental Assistance

Applying for rental programs in New Brunswick typically involves:

• Contacting a Social Development Regional Office closest to you
• Completing the required forms (see below)
• Submitting proof of income, identification, and current housing situation
• Being added to a centralized wait list for available programs and housing units

Official Application Forms

• Application for Rental Housing Assistance (Form SD0017): This form is used to apply for all Social Development rental programs, including rent supplement and public housing. You’ll need to provide household and financial details, and specify which assistance you’re seeking.
  Download Application for Housing Rental Assistance (SD0017) [PDF]
• Annual Declaration Form (for existing tenants): Tenants already receiving assistance must complete this form yearly to update their income and maintain eligibility.
  Download Annual Declaration Form (SD0137) [PDF]

After applying, you may be asked for an interview or additional documentation depending on your situation. Regional Social Development staff can assist with the process.

Your Rights and What Tenants Need to Know

Even if you live in subsidized or public housing, you are still protected by provincial tenancy laws. Issues such as Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know and dispute resolution follow the rules under New Brunswick legislation.

The official authority overseeing tenant and landlord rights in New Brunswick is the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick. All tenant-landlord agreements, rights, and obligations—including those in subsidized units—are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick¹.

For more about specific rights and duties for tenants and landlords in your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

For those searching for affordable or subsidized units, Browse apartments for rent in Canada, including options that may fit rent supplement or geared-to-income criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions about Low-Income Rental Assistance

1. Do I have to pay a security deposit for subsidized or public housing?
   Yes, security deposits are generally required. Learn about your rights and how deposits work in New Brunswick by reading Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
2. Can my landlord raise the rent if I have a rental subsidy?
   Rent increases follow standard provincial rules, even in subsidized housing. Check program details and read about provincial rent increase rules to stay informed.
3. How is my eligibility for rental assistance determined?
   Eligibility is based on household income, family size, and housing need. Each program has criteria that must be met, and updated documentation may be required annually.
4. What if my income changes during the year?
   You must inform Social Development of any income changes, as your subsidy may need adjusting. Use the Annual Declaration Form to report changes and maintain eligibility.
5. Where can I get help if I’m facing eviction while receiving a subsidy?
   Contact your local Social Development office and the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for support, as special procedures may apply.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Multiple rental assistance and affordable housing programs are available in New Brunswick to help low-income tenants.
• All tenants—including those in subsidized units—have rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.
• Apply through regional Social Development offices, and keep your documentation up to date to maintain assistance.

Finding and maintaining safe, affordable housing is possible with the right information and support.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick: Official site for tenant-landlord disputes and information
• New Brunswick Social Development – Housing Programs: List of programs, forms, and contacts
• Find local tenant advocacy groups: Contact organizations such as the New Brunswick Tenants Rights Coalition for advice and support
• Toll-Free Housing Information Line: 1-888-762-8600

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, New Brunswick

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