Explore our website for information on our housing programs and support services. For housing-specific inquiries, please use the form below. Provide as many details as possible and include your contact information so we can direct your query to the appropriate team. We’re committed to providing timely responses, typically within 3-5 business days.
Message for the users
FAQ
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Who qualifies for subsidized housing in Ontario?
You can apply for RGI housing if you meet the following criteria:
a) At least one member of the household is 16 years or older
b) At least one member of the household is able to live independently, with or without support services
c) At least one member of the household has income
d) Each member of the household can prove status in Canada as one of the following:
- Canadian citizen
- a permanent resident of Canada
- has applied for Canadian permanent resident status
- is a refugee claimant or Convention refugee
For more information, visit the website: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/employment-social-support/housing-support/rent-geared-to-income-subsidy/?accordion=need-help
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I have previously submitted a paper application for WoodGreen housing, how can I get an update on my application?
Please contact our Housing Access Department ([email protected]) to request your applicant code and obtain access to your online application.
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What information and documents do I need to apply?
Proof of Canadian Status (all household members). Acceptable status documents include one of the following:
- Canadian citizen card
- permanent resident card
- proof of application for Canadian permanent resident status
- proof of status as a refugee claimant or Convention refugee
- landed immigrant documents
Most recent Notice of Assessment (all household members over the age of 16) or Proof of Income documents (ODSP/OW drug card, employment pay statements, etc)
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I have a City of Toronto Rent Cafe application; can I use the same logins?
YES, absolutely! When you enter your email address to register, RentCafe will give you the option to use the same logins as you previously used for your City of Toronto Housing application.
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I forgot my password; can you help me reset it?
Unfortunately, we cannot reset your password from our end. Please use the “Forgot password” option and a password reset email will be sent out to you from RentCafe.
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Once I apply, am I able to update and modify my application?
YES, you can log into RentCafe using your username and password. You can update your personal contact information and update your documents as needed.
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Can I upload updated documents to my account after I have completed my application?
YES, you can upload any new and updated documents at any time.
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How much will my rent be?
Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) rent is 30 per cent of a household’s monthly income. We use your Notice of Assessment and income documents to calculate this rent. If you receive social assistance, the rent is based on the rent benefit set by the Ontario government.
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How do I add a family member after I submit my application?
Once your application is made eligible, you can log into RentCafe and add new family members as co-applicants or dependents. Note that you must submit the required supporting documents for the newly added family members for our team to review.
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What if my contact information, income, or family composition changes?
Log into RentCafe using your username and password and you will be able to update contact information, add or delete family members, as well as make changes to your income information.
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Can I refuse a unit?
Consistent with the City of Toronto, we have a one-refusal policy for our units.
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If I accept an offer that is not my first choice, will I remain on the list of my other choices?
If you accept an RGI housing offer, you will be removed from the waiting list. Please ensure you are only selecting buildings you are interested in.
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What is the difference between a co-applicant versus dependent?
- A co-applicant can be anyone 16 years of age and older, who will be a leaseholder and will live with you in the unit.
- A dependent is anyone under the age of 16. If custody or access rights are shared for a child of the household, this means that a household member is legally required or permitted to provide overnight accommodation for the child for at least 78 nights per year.
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What is the difference between an accessible building and a modified unit?
- Accessible building: A modified unit is a housing unit specifically adapted to meet the needs of a tenant with accessibility needs. It may include features like lowered countertops, widened doorways, roll-in showers, lever-style handles, and accessible lighting and controls.
- Modified unit: An accessible building is designed to be usable by individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility needs. They may feature ramps, wide doorways, elevators, and accessible restrooms to ensure that all common areas, entrances, and exits are accessible to everyone.
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What are the asset limits to live in RGI housing?
If your household has assets with a total value of over $150,000, you will not be eligible for RGI assistance. Please review the City of Toronto’s website to understand included and excluded assets.
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What if I have arrears from a previous subsidized housing provider?
You can still apply; however, we do require a copy of the repayment plan, and proof that your repayment plan is in good standing
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What if I require help with the application?
Our Housing Access Team will be happy to answer any questions regarding the application. We can also direct you to community resources like housing help centres to assist you with gathering documents and completing your application.
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How long is the waitlist for housing?
Due to a very high demand and limited housing availability, the waitlist can unfortunately extend for several years. Please know that we are continually working to expand access, advocate for more resources, and support applicants however we can during this time.
Right now, the average times are:
- Senior units: 5-7 years
- Non-senior and Family units: 5-10 years
IMPORTANT: Please note, these timelines are an estimate, as we are only able to fill units via available vacancies.