Apply for First Home Buyer Assistance in Canada
Understand eligibility for Canada's First Home Savings Account, Home Buyers' Plan, and federal rebates before purchasing your first property.
This guide is for planning and preparation. Details may change, so verify current requirements with the official sources before applying, paying fees, or submitting documents.
Review and freshness
This guide has a recorded editorial review date. Always verify final requirements, fees, forms, and appointment rules with official sources before applying.
Estimated timeline
4 to 12 weeks (purchase process)
Estimated fees
Usually free
Who this is for
Canadian residents buying their first home or qualifying property.
Location
Canada
Eligibility
First-time buyer
You or your spouse must not have owned a qualifying home in the past four calendar years.
Residency
Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
Required documents checklist
Tap each item as you gather it. This progress stays in your browser for the current page session.
Visual step flow
Scan the process before you start
Use this overview to understand the order, then track each item in the checklist below.
Confirm eligibility
Check first-time buyer definitions under each program separately.
Open an FHSA if eligible
Contribute up to $8,000 per year (lifetime $40,000) tax-free toward a qualifying home.
Apply for rebates at closing
Your lawyer or notary applies the First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit and provincial rebates.
File tax forms
Report FHSA withdrawals and HBP amounts on your tax return in the year of purchase.
Step-by-step instructions
Use this as a working checklist from preparation through submission.
Estimated fees
Program application
Programs are free; standard legal, land transfer, and mortgage costs still apply.
Before submitting
Avoid rejected applications and wasted trips
Check these practical points before you pay fees, attend appointments, or hand over original documents.
Common mistakes
- Withdrawing RRSP funds without filing the Home Buyers' Plan form.
- Missing the HBP re-contribution deadline (15 years starting two years after withdrawal).
- Assuming all programs apply automatically without filing the correct tax schedules.
FAQ
Can I use both the FHSA and the Home Buyers' Plan?
Yes. You can combine both for a qualifying first home purchase, subject to each program's rules.
Is the First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit refundable?
No, it is a non-refundable tax credit worth up to $1,500 on your federal tax return.
Source and review
This guide has a recorded editorial review date. Requirements, fees, forms, and timelines can change. Use this guide as preparation support, then verify final details with the official source before submitting anything.