Basic Income Assistance Rates
You may be eligible for basic Income Assistance if you have a budget deficit. Having a budget deficit means that the income you have to pay for your basic needs is less than the amount you may receive on income assistance. The amount of assistance you receive depends on your circumstances.
Shelter Allowance
| Family Size | Rent or Own a Home | Boarding |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $300* | $223 |
| 2 | $570 | $242 |
| 3+ | $620 | $282 |
* Up to $535 under certain circumstances
Personal Allowance
| Shelter situation | Adult | Dependent child age 18 to 20 | Dependent child up to age 18 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent, own home, board | $229 | $229 | $133 * |
| In hospital 30 days or more | $105 | $105 | Not applicable |
| In a residential rehabilitation program | $81 | $81 | Not applicable |
* If you do not get the Nova Scotia Child Benefit or the National Child Benefit for a dependent child under the age of 18, you can ask for a Child Benefit Adjustment (CBA). You must file your income tax each year to get your Child Tax Benefits. Ask your caseworker for more information.