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BC Temporary Rental Supplement (BC-TRS) Program Simplified FAQs
What is the BC-Temporary Rental Supplement (BC-TRS) Program?
This new program will provide a temporary rental supplement to assist eligible low- and moderate-income renters who are struggling to pay their rent as a result of income loss or income reduction due to COVID-19. Eligible tenants will have the benefit paid directly to their landlord, benefiting both the landlord and the tenant. At this time, this is a three-month program.
- Who is eligible?
To be eligible, tenants must have experienced an income loss or reduction as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Benefiting people with low to moderate incomes, this supplement will be available to renters who are facing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 crisis, but do not qualify for existing rental assistance programs. Full eligibility criteria will be available on BC Housing’s website soon. - Do I need to pay my rent for April?
Yes, you should pay your rent for April. The rental supplement program will be accepting applications in mid-April. - I live in subsidized housing. Can I apply?
No. Tenants whose rent is subsidized by any level of government are not eligible. If your rent contribution is based on your income and you have lost income as a result of COVID-19 (rentgeared-to-income), speak to your housing provider to see if you are eligible for an adjustment to your rent contribution. Information bulletin: Covid-19 Bulletin for Housing Providers – Eviction and Rent Adjustment Notification - I am receiving Income Assistance or Disability Assistance. Can I apply?
No. Your Income Assistance or Disability Assistance includes a shelter allowance and has not changed as a result of COVID-19. - Who will receive the rental supplement payments?
The rental supplement will be paid directly to landlords of eligible tenants. - Will the rental supplement cover my entire rent?
No. The BC-TRS will provide supplements of up to $500, depending on various factors including the size of your household. It is not intended to cover the entire amount of rent due, and tenants are still responsible to pay the difference between the benefit amount and their full rent. We encourage landlords and tenants to work together regarding reasonable options, including repayment plans if the tenant is unable to cover the full balance of rent. - When can I find out more?
Full details on eligibility for the program and information about the application process will be up
on BC Housing’s website soon. - When can I apply?
Applications will open in mid-April. Tenants and landlords will each need to submit an application.
Source: https://www.bchousing.org/home
