Seniors Rental Subsidies in Manitoba Rent Assist

Manitoba has one main rental subsidy for seniors named Rent Assist. Along with other housing supports that help lower living expenses the Rent Assist Program is open to low‑income seniors. Whether they rent privately or through Manitoba Housing Seniors can use the program to lower their rent. Seniors Rental Subsidies in Manitoba (2026 Guide).

Helping older Manitobans afford safe, stable housing on a fixed income

Rent Assist (Primary Manitoba Rental Subsidy)

What Rent Assist Is

Rent Assist is Manitoba’s income‑tested rental benefit that helps low‑income seniors pay for housing. It is paid monthly and is designed to keep rent affordable for older adults living on fixed incomes such as OAS, GIS, and CPP.

Who Can Get It

You may qualify if you are:

• A Manitoba resident
• A low‑income senior (typically 55+ or 65+, depending on your building)
• Renting in private market housing
• Renting in Manitoba Housing
• Receiving GIS or living on a modest income

Rent Assist is available even if you are not on social assistance.

How Much Seniors Receive

The amount depends on:

• Your monthly income
• Your rent amount
• Your household size
• Whether you live in private rental or Manitoba Housing

Most low‑income seniors receive $100–$350 per month, but some may receive more if rent is high and income is low.

Why Rent Assist Matters for Seniors

• Helps seniors stay housed and independent
• Works with federal benefits (OAS, GIS, CPP)
• Paid directly to the senior
• Can be used in almost any rental unit
• Helps offset rising rental costs across Manitoba

How to Apply

You can apply:

• Online through the Manitoba Rent Assist portal
• By mail (paper application)
• At a Service Manitoba office

You will need:

• Proof of rent (lease or rent receipt)
• Proof of income (tax return, benefit statements)
• Identification

Manitoba Housing for Seniors

Rent‑geared‑to‑income housing for older adults

Manitoba Housing offers subsidized apartments for seniors, usually 55+ or 65+ depending on the building.

How It Works

• Rent is typically 30% of your income
• Heat and water often included
• Available in Winnipeg and rural communities
• Many buildings are senior‑only, with safety features and community supports

This is often the most affordable option for seniors with very low income.

Other Manitoba Supports That Help Seniors Afford Rent

These programs are not rental subsidies, but they reduce overall living costs, making rent more manageable for seniors.

55 PLUS Program

A quarterly income supplement for low‑income Manitobans 55+.

• Up to $161.80 per quarter (single)
• Up to $173.90 per quarter (couples)
• Works alongside GIS

Seniors School Tax Rebate

For homeowners 65+ with family income under $63,500.

• Up to $235 back on school taxes

Education Property Tax Credit

Helps reduce property taxes for renters and homeowners.

• Up to $525 credit
• Renters can claim a portion on their tax return

Pharmacare

Reduces prescription drug costs based on income.

• Lower medical costs help seniors stretch their housing budget

How Seniors Apply for Rental Support

Most seniors will apply for Rent Assist using:

• The online application
• A paper form
• A Service Manitoba office

Keep copies of:

• Rent receipts
• Lease agreements
• Income documents
• ID

Final Thoughts

Rent Assist is Manitoba’s most important rental support for older adults. If you receive GIS, live on a fixed income, or pay more than 30% of your income toward rent, you should check your eligibility.

Gov Of Manitoba Official Site

Seniors Canada Info Housing Hub