Saskatchewan Renter Benefits & Property Credits (2025)

Saskatchewan renters and low-income households have access to a range of supports, credits, and cash benefits to help offset the cost of rent, utilities, and property taxes. These include the Saskatchewan Low-Income Tax Credit (SLITC), the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit (SHB), municipal rent/property tax programs, and federal benefits that can be claimed in conjunction with provincial supports. This guide covers who qualifies, how to claim, and strategies to maximize your benefit as a Saskatchewan renter or low-income property occupant.

Saskatchewan Low-Income Tax Credit (SLITC)

The SLITC is a quarterly, income-tested cash benefit for low- and moderate-income Saskatchewan households. It’s administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and paid automatically if you qualify.

Eligibility: Saskatchewan residents with family net income below a set annual threshold (indexed each year). Both renters and homeowners are eligible.
How to apply: No separate application required—simply file your annual tax return (even with no income) and provide accurate residency details.
Benefit amount: Maximum annual benefit is paid per adult and per child (amounts updated annually; e.g., ~$350/adult, ~$140/child for 2025). The payment is gradually reduced as income rises above the threshold.
Payment schedule: Quarterly (January, April, July, October), via direct deposit or cheque.
Stacking: Can be claimed alongside the GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit, and Saskatchewan Housing Benefit.

Tip: Ensure your address and marital/child status are updated with CRA to avoid missed payments.

Saskatchewan Housing Benefit (SHB)

The Saskatchewan Housing Benefit is a targeted, monthly rent supplement for low-income renters in the private market (not social housing). It’s designed to help bridge the gap between rent and what is considered affordable, based on your income and household size.

Eligibility: Saskatchewan residents who:
- Rent in the private market (not subsidized or social housing)
- Are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or have eligible immigration status
- Meet income and asset limits for your household size (varies by region; check current thresholds)
- Pay more than a set portion of monthly income on rent
How to apply: Apply online at the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit portal or through a local housing authority. You’ll need proof of rent (lease, receipts), income (tax return, pay stubs), and household composition.
Amount: Varies by household size, income, and rent paid; benefit aims to ensure you pay no more than 30% of adjusted income on rent. Payment is made directly to you each month.
Renewal: Recipients must renew eligibility annually and update information if household or income changes.

Stacking: You can receive the SHB while also claiming the SLITC, Canada Child Benefit, and GST/HST credit.

Municipal Rent and Property Tax Rebates

Some Saskatchewan municipalities offer additional support for renters and low-income property occupants, including rent supplements, utility grants, and property tax deferral or rebate programs. These vary by city/town, so check your local government website for details.

Renters: Cities like Regina and Saskatoon may offer short-term rent supplements for those at risk of homelessness or facing sudden financial hardship. Application is usually through a local housing authority or city assistance office.
Homeowners/Long-term Renters: Some towns may provide property tax credits or deferrals for seniors, persons with disabilities, or low-income individuals—apply through your municipality.
Utility rebates: Municipal and provincial programs may offer grants for heating, energy efficiency upgrades, or utility support—check with your city or with SaskPower/SaskEnergy.

Tip: Keep all rent receipts and property tax statements. You may need to provide proof of payment to claim local grants/credits.

How to Claim & Documentation Tips

File your tax return every year, even if you have no income, to trigger the SLITC, GST/HST credit, and CCB review.
Keep receipts for all rent paid, including landlord’s name, address, and amount. If you share rent, each tenant should claim only their portion.
For SHB and municipal programs, retain your lease agreement, proof of payment, and benefit approval letters.
Missed a benefit? You can request a tax return adjustment (T1-ADJ) for up to 10 years back for most credits. Retroactive SHB may be possible in some cases if you were eligible but did not apply.

Frequently Asked Questions: Saskatchewan Renter Credits

Can I get both the SLITC and the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit?

Yes! These benefits are stackable. File your tax return for SLITC and apply separately for SHB if you rent in the private market and meet eligibility.

What if my landlord won’t give me a rent receipt?

Keep bank statements, e-transfer records, or cancelled cheques as proof. Document your attempts to get an official receipt. CRA may accept alternative proof if audited.

Can students claim rent for SLITC or GST/HST credit?

Yes, if you are a Saskatchewan resident and pay rent for your principal residence (not residence fees included in tuition), you can claim your share on your tax return.

Does SHB affect my other provincial or federal credits?

No, the SHB does not reduce eligibility for SLITC, GST/HST credit, or Canada Child Benefit. It is not considered taxable income and does not need to be reported on your tax return.

How do I update my information with SHB or SLITC?

For SHB, contact your local housing authority or update online. For SLITC, update your address and family status with CRA (My Account or by phone) and ensure your tax return is current.