Housing and property tax grants
Shelter Aid For Elderly Renters (SAFER)
The Shelter Aid For Elderly Renters (SAFER) program assists low- to moderate-income BC residents aged 60 and over with private market rental housing costs by providing monthly subsidies. This helps ensure that eligible seniors spend no more than 30% of their gross household income on rent. Eligibility requires at least 12 months of residency in BC and meeting income criteria.
BC Home Owner Grant for Seniors
Seniors aged 65 and older can reduce their property taxes on their primary residence through this provincial grant. The grant amount varies based on location and property value, with higher amounts available in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. Low-income seniors whose properties exceed the maximum value threshold may also qualify for supplements.
Property Tax Deferment Program
This program provides a low-interest loan for seniors aged 55 and over to defer their annual property taxes, offering financial flexibility.
Home adaptation grants and programs
BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (RAHA)
The BC RAHA program offers rebates up to $20,000 to low- and moderate-income households for permanent home modifications that enhance accessibility, safety, and independence for seniors and people with disabilities. Approved adaptations include features like grab bars and wheelchair ramps.
BC Seniors' Home Renovation Tax Credit
This refundable income tax credit is available to seniors aged 65 and older, covering 10% of eligible permanent home renovation costs up to $10,000, resulting in a maximum credit of $1,000 annually. It is applicable to both homeowners and renters.
Energy conservation programs
Programs like those offered by EfficiencyBC provide energy-efficiency upgrades and grants to help seniors lower energy bills. Income-qualified seniors can receive free energy assessments and upgrades up to $5,000 through the Energy Conservation and Assistance Program.
Income and financial support programs
BC Seniors' Supplement
This provincial program provides an additional monthly payment to low-income seniors in BC who receive the federal Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). Eligibility is assessed automatically upon approval for GIS for BC residents.
Federal income support
Federal benefits provide foundational financial support for seniors. These include the Old Age Security (OAS) pension for most Canadians 65 and older, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for low-income OAS recipients, the Allowance for low-income individuals aged 60–64 with a spouse/common-law partner receiving OAS/GIS, and the Allowance for the Survivor for low-income individuals aged 60–64 whose spouse/common-law partner has died.
Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
Launched in 2024, the federal CDCP provides dental care coverage to eligible Canadian residents. Seniors aged 65 and over were among the first to become eligible, with eligibility based on family net income and application in phases.
Healthcare and transportation grants
BC Bus Pass Program
Low-income seniors in BC can access an annual bus pass at a reduced cost of $45, supporting independent travel and social engagement.
Travel Assistance Program (TAP)
The TAP offers financial aid to eligible residents, including seniors, who need to travel within BC for non-emergency specialist medical appointments by partnering with transportation providers to reduce or waive fees.
BC PharmaCare
BC PharmaCare assists all BC residents with prescription drug costs based on their income. For eligible seniors receiving federal and provincial income support, PharmaCare is automatically integrated.
Comparison of key BC grants for seniors
| Program | Type of Grant | Age Requirement | Income Restriction | Purpose | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BC Home Owner Grant | Property Tax Reduction | 65+ | Property value based, with low-income supplement available | Reduce annual property taxes on principal residence | Online via the BC government website annually |
| BC SAFER | Rental Subsidy | 60+ | Low to moderate income thresholds | Subsidize rent for seniors paying over 30% of income on housing | Online, fax, mail, or in-person through BC Housing |
| BC RAHA | Home Adaptation Rebate | No specific age, available to those with diminished abilities | Low to moderate income thresholds | Rebate for accessible home modifications up to $20,000 | Through BC Housing's program upload form or by phone |
| BC Seniors' Home Renovation Tax Credit | Tax Credit | 65+ | No specific income limit, but based on eligible expenses | Claim up to $1,000 for permanent home renovations | Claim on annual BC income tax return |
| BC Seniors' Supplement | Income Top-up | 65+ | For low-income seniors receiving OAS/GIS | Provides a monthly provincial top-up payment | Automatic if eligible for federal GIS and meet residency rules |
Conclusion
Numerous grants and financial aid programs exist to support seniors in British Columbia, addressing needs in housing, property tax relief, accessible home renovations, dental care, transportation, and income. Key provincial programs include the Home Owner Grant for Seniors, SAFER, and the BC Seniors' Supplement, while federal support includes the Canada Dental Care Plan, OAS, and GIS. Understanding the eligibility criteria and application processes for these diverse programs is vital for seniors to access essential financial assistance and maintain their independence and quality of life. Seniors should regularly assess their eligibility and reapply for grants like SAFER and the Home Owner Grant annually.
Get more information
For additional details on provincial support programs, the B.C. Benefits Connector website is a valuable resource.
