Managing the cost of living can be challenging, especially for low to modest income households in Halifax. With the cost of living rising exponentially in recent years, many residents find it difficult to make ends meet. Thankfully, there are several assistance programs available to provide relief. In this blog, we’ll cover three key programs that can assist with expenses: the Heating Assistance Rebate, the Seniors Care Grant, and the Property Tax Rebate for Seniors.
These programs aim to ease financial burdens by offering help with heating costs, household services, and property taxes. Whether you’re a senior looking for extra support or a family needing a little extra help through the winter, understanding these programs and knowing how to apply can provide some much-needed relief.
The Heating Assistance Rebate
As temperatures drop, heating your home through the winter months can be costly. The Heating Assistance Rebate Program is designed to help low to modest income households in Nova Scotia cover these essential expenses. If you qualify, you could receive a rebate of $600 to help keep your home warm and comfortable.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Heating Assistance Rebate, you must pay for your own home (residential) heating and meet one of the following income requirements:
You have a 2023 net income of $55,000 or less and live alone without dependents.
Your combined 2023 net household income is $75,000 or less, and you live with dependents or other adults.
You receive Income Assistance from the Department of Community Services.
You receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) or the Allowance from Service Canada.
Qualifying Heat Sources
The rebate applies to a variety of heat sources, including:
Oil
Electricity
Natural gas
Wood
Wood pellets
Coal
Other heating sources
However, some heating costs are ineligible, such as:
Heating costs included in your rent.
Electricity usage of less than 5,000 kWh per year.
How to Apply
Applying for the rebate is straightforward and can be done online. The application window is open from October 1st through March 31st. Visit the N.S. Heating Assistance Rebate Application Page to complete the form and submit your application. Make sure to have your heating bill and income details handy to ensure a smooth application process.
The Seniors Care Grant
For seniors living on a fixed income, managing household expenses and essential services can be overwhelming. The Seniors Care Grant is designed to help ease these financial burdens. Eligible seniors can receive up to $750 per household to cover the cost of household services.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Seniors Care Grant, you must:
Be 65 or older by March 31, 2025.
Have a household net income of $45,100 or less.
Live in your own home, with your name on the property title, Land Titles Initiative Certificate of Claim, residential lease agreement, or a Band administrative letter from a First Nation community (reserve).
Have paid for or will pay for eligible household and healthcare services or home heating between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025.
Eligible Expenses
The grant covers a range of services that support seniors in staying independent and safe in their homes, such as:
Cooking and meal preparation
Grocery and meal delivery
Healthcare services, including foot care, physiotherapy, and mental health support.
Home heating and heating repairs or maintenance.
Home cleaning, organizing, and downsizing help.
Laundry services.
Medication and prescription delivery (not including the cost of the medications).
Outdoor work like snow removal or yard maintenance.
Phone, cellphone, and internet services (not including device costs).
Small home repairs.
Transportation services.
Ineligible Expenses
Certain expenses are not covered, including:
Devices like phones, laptops, and tablets.
Food and groceries.
Medical and assistive devices, such as eyeglasses, dentures, or orthopedic supports.
The cost of medications, prescriptions, vitamins, or supplements.
How to Apply
To apply for the Seniors Care Grant, visit the N.S. Seniors Care Grant Application Page. You can apply until March 31, 2025. Be sure to keep copies of your receipts for all eligible expenses, as you may need to provide them if requested. The application process is simple, and help is available if needed.
The Property Tax Rebate for Seniors
Owning a home can be financially demanding, especially when it comes to property taxes. The Property Tax Rebate for Seniors is designed to help low-income seniors manage these expenses. Eligible seniors can receive a rebate of 50% of the total amount paid on the previous year’s municipal residential property taxes, up to a maximum of $800.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Property Tax Rebate for Seniors, you must meet the following conditions:
Your 2023 municipal residential property taxes must be paid in full, and your name must be on the property title.
You must have lived at the property as your primary residence in 2023 (it cannot be a seasonal home or a place you live only occasionally).
You must receive or be eligible to receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) or the Allowance from Service Canada.
Ineligible Property Tax Amounts
While most amounts listed on your tax bill are eligible for the rebate calculation, some exceptions include:
Taxes on commercial property.
Taxes on resource property (non-residential land or forest).
Any municipal exemptions or other rebates you have received.
Where to Apply
The application for the Property Tax Rebate for Seniors is open until December 31, 2024. To apply, visit the N.S. Property Tax Rebate for Seniors Page. The process is straightforward, but it’s important to have proof that your property taxes are paid in full. If you need assistance or have questions, support is available to help guide you through the application.
Navigating the rising cost of living can be stressful, but these assistance programs are here to provide a helping hand for those who qualify. If you or someone you know may be eligible, don’t hesitate to explore these opportunities further.
For more information or to get started, follow the links provided in each section. Sharing this information with family, friends, or neighbours who may qualify is also a great way to spread the support within our community. Here’s to staying warm, safe, and supported this season! As always, feel free to reach out to us with any of your real estate needs.
Author: Brynn Carmody
Real Estate Assistant
HalifaxCondos.co
Keller Williams Select Realty