How do I know if I qualify for social housing in Saskatchewan?

Eligibility is based on household income, family size, and citizenship/residency. Check with the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation or your local authority for current thresholds and requirements.

What happens if my income changes after I move into affordable housing?

You must report any significant change in your household income. Your rent may be recalculated, or your eligibility reviewed accordingly.

Can I appeal if I’m denied access to a housing subsidy?

Yes. You can appeal decisions through the Office of Residential Tenancies. Contact them directly or visit their website for the appeals process and required forms.

Do subsidies cover all of my rental costs?

No. Most subsidies only cover part of your rent (typically up to 30% of your income); utilities, parking, and other fees may not be included.

Are there special affordable housing programs for seniors and people with disabilities?

Yes, certain programs and units are designated specifically for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Eligibility criteria and waitlists are managed separately in some cases.

Affordable Housing & Subsidies: Saskatchewan Tenant Guide

Affordable Housing & Subsidies Saskatchewan published July 01, 2025

Finding and affording a safe, comfortable home is a top priority for many renters in Saskatchewan. With rising living costs, understanding affordable housing programs and rent subsidies is essential for tenants looking to make ends meet. This guide will help you navigate the main options in Saskatchewan, including key application forms, eligibility, and where to get additional support.

What Is Affordable Housing in Saskatchewan?

Affordable housing refers to rental units offered at below-market rates to help low and moderate-income households. In Saskatchewan, several programs are available for Canadians who qualify based on their financial situation, family status, or specific needs.

Social Housing: Managed mainly by the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC) and local housing authorities, social housing offers rent-geared-to-income apartments for families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
Rent Supplement Programs: These help tenants who pay market rent by providing monthly financial support to help cover living costs.
Supportive Housing: Programs for people with complex housing needs, such as mental health or mobility challenges, often include support services.

You can review a full breakdown of tenant and landlord legal rights in Saskatchewan on our Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan page.

Who Is Eligible for Affordable Housing or Rent Assistance?

Eligibility typically depends on income, household size, and, in some cases, age or disability status. For most social housing in Saskatchewan, you must:

Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Meet program income limits (these change yearly; the SHC publishes updates)
Require housing in Saskatchewan for you and your family

For rent supplements, you usually must have signed a lease in a market rental unit and show your income is within stated limits. Some programs target families, seniors, or people with disabilities specifically.

How to Apply: Important Forms and Steps

Getting affordable housing or a rent subsidy requires patience and the right paperwork. Here are the main steps and forms to know:

Saskatchewan Social Housing Application Form (Form H-001): Official form
Use this form to apply for social housing offered by local housing authorities. Provide income information, household size, and preferred locations. Once submitted, you may be placed on a waiting list. For example, if you’re a single parent struggling to pay market rent, complete Form H-001 and submit it to your local authority to access affordable options.
Rent Supplement Program Application: Official program details & forms
Apply here if you live in a private rental and qualify for a subsidy. Submit proof of income and tenancy. For example, if your rent is high and you qualify by income, complete the supplement application to receive monthly financial support.
Other Supportive Housing Program Applications:
If you need supportive housing due to a disability or health condition, contact the appropriate local program through the provincial website. Forms and eligibility vary.

What Costs Are Covered? What’s Not Included?

Most programs set your rent at around 30% of your gross monthly income, up to a cap. For rent supplements, you’ll receive a monthly benefit to help pay your private rent. Utilities and other non-rent charges (like parking) are often not subsidized, so budget accordingly.

Paying Rent and Maintaining Your Rights

Even if you receive housing support or subsidies, your rights as a tenant under Saskatchewan law remain the same. Review our Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips for helpful advice on budgeting and payment.

Affordable housing tenancies are usually governed by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.¹ This law ensures fair treatment and sets the rules for rents, deposits, notice periods, and tenant protections.

What If You’re Facing a Waitlist?

Waiting lists for social or affordable housing can be long, especially in larger communities. While on the waitlist, you may need to rent at market rates. Consider searching for more affordable rentals – Affordable homes for rent in Canada may help you find and compare current listings while you apply for subsidies.

Other Rights and Responsibilities

Affordable housing tenants must meet the same obligations as any renter. Review our guide, Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained, to stay informed about your duties and protections.

For anyone starting or finishing a rental, understanding best practices and the minimum standards for homes is crucial. View the Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for practical advice.

FAQ: Saskatchewan Affordable Housing & Subsidies

How do I know if I qualify for social housing in Saskatchewan?
Eligibility is based on household income, family size, and citizenship/residency. Check with the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation or your local authority for current thresholds and requirements.
What happens if my income changes after I move into affordable housing?
You must report any significant change in your household income. Your rent may be recalculated, or your eligibility reviewed accordingly.
Can I appeal if I’m denied access to a housing subsidy?
Yes. You can appeal decisions through the Office of Residential Tenancies. Contact them directly or visit their website for the appeals process and required forms.
Do subsidies cover all of my rental costs?
No. Most subsidies only cover part of your rent (typically up to 30% of your income); utilities, parking, and other fees may not be included.
Are there special affordable housing programs for seniors and people with disabilities?
Yes, certain programs and units are designated specifically for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Eligibility criteria and waitlists are managed separately in some cases.

How To: Apply for Affordable Housing in Saskatchewan

How do I apply for social housing?
Obtain and complete the Social Housing Application Form (H-001), then submit it (and required documentation) to your local housing authority’s office. Be prepared to provide proof of income, identification, and details about everyone in your household.
How do I access a rent supplement?
Check eligibility on Saskatchewan.ca. If you qualify, fill out the Rent Supplement Application and provide income and tenancy details to the specified program administrator.
What should I do if I’m put on a waiting list?
Stay in contact with your housing authority and update them if your circumstances change. While waiting, continue to look for affordable options or consider temporary rental assistance where available.
Can I challenge a decision about my eligibility?
Yes. Reach out to the Office of Residential Tenancies to learn about their appeal process. Submit the required appeal form with supporting documentation if you believe an error has been made.

Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants

Affordable housing and subsidy programs can significantly lower your rental costs if you qualify
Be thorough and prompt when completing applications and reporting income changes
Stay informed about your tenant rights – learn more on our Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan page

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Saskatchewan Housing Corporation – Central resource for all provincial housing programs and forms
Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – The tribunal for all landlord-tenant matters: applications, appeals, and rights
Local housing authorities: Contact details can be found via the SHC’s online directory
Tenant advocacy organizations: Some cities offer additional support or legal help; check local listings