Financial Assistance in Quebec

At Visavie, we believe that every senior deserves to enjoy their retirement with dignity. To ease the financial burden on seniors and promote their well-being, several government grants are available. Discover the main financial assistance programs that can improve your daily life, whether you live at home or in a senior living facility.

Find out about all the financial assistance you may be eligible for to help you continue living at home. We’ll guide you through the process to help you access the support that best fits your situation.

These grants, provided by the federal and provincial governments, are designed to help seniors:

1. Access home care or care in a residential facility.
2. Manage housing costs.
3. Maintain independence.
4. Enjoy enriching activities.

These programs are designed to help you live a peaceful life while focusing on your health and personal goals.

The Housing Allowance Program provides monthly financial assistance low-income households that spend a large portion of their budget on housing. It can provide support to seniors who rent an apartment or a room, particularly during a transitional period before moving into a retirement home. This assistance supplements retirement income and can improve the ability to pay rent. Eligibility depends on income and situation; check the criteria on the official website.

The PSLQ allows eligible households to live in private-sector housing while paying rent equal to 25% of their income. For seniors, this is a useful option when private housing is too expensive, or as a temporary solution while searching for a suitable living environment. Access is through a housing authority or a local organization and may involve a waiting list.

The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly, tax-free federal benefit for low-income individuals who receive Old Age Security (OAS). This is often the most critical form of assistance in making a move into a residential facility possible, as it directly increases monthly income. Eligibility depends on income and family situation. A tax return must be filed each year to continue receiving payments.

The RRQ retirement pension is a monthly income based on contributions made during one’s working life. It is essential for budgeting before moving into a senior living facility, as it supplements federal benefits. The timing of when you start receiving the pension affects the monthly amount, which can impact your ability to afford a residence or services.

The Canadian Caregiver Credit is a federal tax credit that may apply when a person cares for an eligible dependent relative. It is particularly relevant for families caring for a parent who is losing their independence and preparing to move into a care facility, as it can reduce taxes and help cover some of the associated costs. Eligibility depends on the relationship, the circumstances, and the net income of the person being cared for.

These benefits can help replace some of your income if you need to take time off work to care for someone who is seriously ill or at the end of life. When moving into a care facility, they are helpful when the situation changes rapidly and the family must handle urgent matters and a transition to a new living environment. The program includes different components depending on the age and circumstances of the person receiving care.

The Tax Credit for People with Disabilities (CIPH) is intended for individuals with a severe and long-term disability, as confirmed by a healthcare professional and approved by the CRA. It can improve a household’s tax situation and facilitate access to other support measures, which can help cover the costs of moving into a care facility when care needs increase.

The Canadian Dental Care Plan helps cover part of the cost of dental care for eligible individuals, based on income and the absence of private dental coverage. For seniors, this is a valuable resource, as dental care can become a significant expense when they move to a new living situation or experience a decline in independence.

In addition to grants and tax credits, support services are available for family caregivers, including federal and provincial measures designed to assist them.

If you or a loved one aren't ready to move into a retirement community yet, our sister company, Amika, offers home care services. These personalized services enable seniors to remain in their own homes while receiving the assistance they need to maintain their independence and quality of life.

We assist seniors and their families in finding the perfect private residence, whether for an urgent move, temporary housing, or a new living environment. We guide you through every step of the process to help you make the best choice, at no cost for the services we provide.