Northwest Territories Benefits & Assistance Programs (2026 Guide)
A complete guide to Northwest Territories government benefits and assistance programs, including income assistance, housing and rent supports, healthcare services, disability programs, child & family benefits, and community-based supports. This page helps you understand eligibility requirements and access official application resources.
Quick Access
Jump straight to the support category you need in the Northwest Territories.
Food Assistance in the Northwest Territories
Northwest Territories residents may find food support through food banks, community meal programs, and local food initiatives. Use the quick navigation below to find help faster and access trusted directories.
Emergency Food Help (Fastest Options)
If you need food right away, start with services that can connect you to options in your community. Hours and intake rules can vary, so call ahead when possible.
- Food banks & food hampers: groceries based on local availability and intake rules.
- Meal programs: free or low-cost meals through community organizations.
- Community food programs: local initiatives that may offer food boxes, drop-ins, or referrals.
How to Find Food Near You
The fastest way is to search a directory by community or location. If one provider is at capacity, try another option listed in the same directory.
Find Food Support Directory
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211 Northwest Territories — Food banks, meal programs & community supports
Search for services by topic and community across the Northwest Territories.
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Food Banks Northwest — Where to Get Food
Find food bank times and places, plus additional food and support resources.
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Food Rescue Yellowknife — Food redistribution support
A local non-profit that redistributes safe, usable food to community organizations.
Tip: Ask about hours, intake, and whether an appointment, referral, or proof of address is needed.
What to Bring (Common Requirements)
Requirements depend on the provider and community. Some programs may ask for basic details to confirm service area or household information.
- Proof of address (mail, lease, or a document showing your current address).
- ID (varies by provider — call ahead if you’re unsure).
- Household details (number of people, ages, dietary needs).
Tips for Getting Help Quickly
- Start with 211 for local options and referrals in your community.
- Try more than one provider if services are full or hours don’t work.
- Ask about delivery or pickup options if transportation is a barrier.
- Check weather/holiday closures, especially during winter travel conditions.
FAQ
What’s the fastest way to find food support in the Northwest Territories?
Is food bank support in the Northwest Territories free?
Do I need ID or proof of address?
Medical & Health Coverage in the Northwest Territories
The Northwest Territories provides public healthcare coverage through the NWT Health Care Plan, including a Health Care Card for eligible residents. This section also links to clinics and health centres, prescription/extended benefits options, and mental health supports.
NWT Health Care Plan & Health Care Card
If you’re an eligible resident, you can apply for the NWT Health Care Plan and receive a Health Care Card (with your personal health number). Keep your card with you to access insured services. Eligibility and timelines can depend on residency and your situation.
Health Care Plan resources Official
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GNWT HSS — Applying for Health Care
How to apply, who can apply, and required steps/documents.
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GNWT HSS — Health Care Card (NWT Health Care Plan)
What the card is and why you need it when accessing services.
Clinics, Hospitals & Finding Care
The NWT has hospitals and community health centres across the territory. Use official directories to find contact details, services, and locations. Call ahead to confirm hours and availability.
Find care & services
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GNWT HSS — Hospitals and Health Centres
A directory of hospitals, clinics, and health centres (with contact info).
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NTHSSA — Health Care Services directory
Programs and services across the NWT (availability and details may vary by community).
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211 Northwest Territories — Health & community supports
Search for community-based supports, including health-related services.
Prescription Help & Extended Benefits (Common Options)
Prescription coverage and health-related supports can depend on your situation and eligibility. In addition to insured services under the NWT Health Care Plan, some residents may qualify for supplementary supports for non-insured needs.
- Extended Health Benefits (EHB): may help eligible residents with some non-insured medical needs (rules apply).
- Other programs: some individuals may have coverage through federal/other benefit programs depending on status and eligibility.
- Cost-saving tip: ask your pharmacist about generic options and lower-cost alternatives when appropriate.
Benefits help Official
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GNWT HSS — Extended Health Benefits (EHB)
Overview of EHB and what it may help cover (eligibility and coverage vary).
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GNWT HSS — Applying/Renewing for EHB
How to apply or renew, including requirements and benefit year information.
Mental Health & Crisis Support
If you need someone to talk to, the NWT has mental health supports and crisis lines. If your safety is at risk, get urgent help right away.
Mental health support
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NTHSSA — Crisis lines and 811 (NWT)
A list of crisis lines and 811 information for mental health support.
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Canada Suicide Crisis Helpline — Call or text 9-8-8
24/7 crisis support across Canada (call or text 9-8-8).
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211 NWT — Local counselling & community supports
Search by community for counselling, support groups, and local services.
FAQ
How do I get NWT health coverage?
Where can I find a clinic or health centre in my community?
What if I can’t afford prescriptions or health-related supplies?
Income Assistance in the Northwest Territories
The Northwest Territories (NWT) provides financial support for residents who can’t meet basic living costs through the Income Assistance Program and related supports for seniors and persons with disabilities. Use this guide to understand common eligibility notes and access official application resources.
Income Assistance Program
The Income Assistance Program provides financial assistance to eligible NWT residents to help meet basic needs (such as food, shelter, and utilities) when income is not enough.
Who may qualify
- NWT residents with limited income and financial resources
- Individuals or families experiencing financial hardship
- People who are unemployed, underemployed, or temporarily unable to work
- Applicants who meet territorial eligibility requirements
How the program works
- Delivered through ECE Service Centres (client navigators can help)
- Assistance may include support for shelter and utilities, based on your situation
- Some clients may be connected to employment and training supports where appropriate
Income Assistance resources Official
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ECE (GNWT) — Income Assistance Program
Program overview and how to apply (via your local ECE Service Centre).
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ECE — Income Assistance forms & applications
Download application forms and related reporting documents.
Income Assistance for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities
The NWT also offers a stream of income assistance for seniors and persons with disabilities who don’t have enough money each month to cover basic needs.
- Funding is based on household income and community (rules vary)
- Applicants typically apply through an ECE Service Centre
- Documentation may be required to confirm income, living costs, and eligibility
Seniors & disability resources Official
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ECE (GNWT) — Income Assistance for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities
Program overview and how to apply through your local ECE Service Centre.
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ECE — Application forms (including seniors/persons with disabilities)
Find the correct form for your situation and submit through an ECE Service Centre.
Eligibility & Payment Notes
Eligibility and payment amounts depend on your household situation and may change over time. Use official GNWT information for the most accurate, current details.
- Income, assets, and living arrangements may be reviewed
- Household size can affect eligibility and the amount of support
- Additional supports may be available in certain circumstances
Documents You May Need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of NWT residency (address / community)
- Income details (pay stubs, EI, bank statements, etc.)
- Housing costs (rent/lease, utilities)
- Household member details
- Disability or medical documentation (if applicable)
How to Apply
- Income Assistance: Start here (program info + steps)
- Download application forms: Income Assistance forms & applications
- Submit / get help: Visit or contact your local ECE Service Centre (client navigators can assist). Find an ECE Service Centre
Helpful Contacts
Contacts Directory
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211 Northwest Territories
Visit 211 NWTFind local services, emergency supports, and community resources by topic and community. -
ECE Service Centres (GNWT)
Find your local ECE Service CentreIncome security programs are delivered through ECE Service Centres—contact your region for help applying.
FAQ
Can I apply for NWT Income Assistance online?
Is there a separate option for seniors or persons with disabilities?
Housing & Rental Assistance in the Northwest Territories
The Northwest Territories offers public housing, rent support programs like the Canada–NWT Housing Benefit (CNHB), and emergency housing resources such as Homelessness Assistance Funding (HAF). Use the quick buttons and links below to jump to what you need.
🏘️ Main Housing & Rental Assistance Programs in the Northwest Territories
1) Public Housing (NWT Housing Corporation)
Public housing provides income-based rent for eligible households. Availability and wait times can vary by community. Applications are typically handled through your Local Housing Organization or district office.
Who may qualify
- People living in the Northwest Territories with low or limited income
- Households that meet program rules (income, household size, and housing need)
- Applicants who can provide required documents and complete an application
Public housing resources Official
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NWT Housing Corporation — Public Housing Program
Program overview and how to apply through your local housing organization.
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Public Housing Application (PDF)
Download the application form (print/save).
2) Canada–NWT Housing Benefit (CNHB)
The Canada–NWT Housing Benefit (CNHB) can provide a monthly subsidy to help eligible renters with housing costs. Eligibility is based on household circumstances and program rules.
- Designed to help renters with housing costs (for example, when rent is a high share of income)
- Benefit amounts and funding availability can change—use official program details
- Program rules and required documents may vary—always confirm with Housing NWT
CNHB resources Official
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Housing NWT — Canada–NWT Housing Benefit (CNHB)
Program overview, eligibility notes, and application intake details.
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Housing NWT — Forms (CNHB application + other housing forms)
Find the CNHB application PDF and other program forms.
3) Other NWT Housing Supports
Housing NWT offers additional programs (for example, rental supports, homelessness support, and other initiatives). Use the official services directory to explore the best match for your situation.
👉 Official list: Housing NWT — Programs & Services
🚨 Emergency Housing & Homelessness Support
If you’re facing homelessness, unsafe housing, or immediate housing loss, start with local crisis and housing support services. The NWT has emergency funding options for urgent housing needs.
- Emergency shelters and short-term accommodation (varies by community)
- Outreach and stabilization services
- Short-term emergency funding to prevent homelessness (when eligible)
Emergency housing help Official
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Housing NWT — Homelessness Assistance Funding (HAF)
Short-term financial support for urgent housing challenges (eligibility applies).
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GNWT — Homelessness Emergency Funding (HAF)
Government overview page for the Homelessness Assistance Fund.
👉 Find local help: 211 Northwest Territories (Housing & Community Supports)
📊 Income & Eligibility Notes
Housing assistance eligibility is typically based on income, household size, and local availability. Waitlists may apply for public housing and other high-demand supports.
- Income rules and benefit amounts can vary by program
- Some programs prioritize urgent housing needs or specific household situations
- Program rules can change—use official resources for current details
🧾 Documents You May Need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of NWT residency (address / community)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit statements, etc.)
- Information for household members
- Rent amount / landlord details (for rent benefit applications, if required)
- Any notices about eviction/arrears (for emergency funding, if applicable)
📝 How to Apply
1) Public Housing
- Download the application and contact your Local Housing Organization/district office for submission instructions.
👉 Start here: Public Housing Application (PDF)
2) CNHB (Rent Help)
- Review eligibility, then use the CNHB application form from Housing NWT’s forms page.
👉 Program page: Canada–NWT Housing Benefit (CNHB)
3) Emergency help (HAF)
- If you’re at immediate risk of homelessness, review HAF details and contact local supports for help with next steps.
👉 Start here: Homelessness Assistance Funding (HAF)
☎ Helpful Housing Contacts
Contacts Directory
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211 Northwest Territories (housing & community support)
Visit 211 NWTFind shelters, rent help, and local housing resources by community. -
NWT Housing Corporation (Housing NWT)
Visit Housing NWT — Programs & ServicesOfficial program list and housing support information.
Child & Family Benefits in the Northwest Territories
NWT families may qualify for child and family financial supports that help with the cost of raising children. These supports can include federal benefits (like the Canada Child Benefit) and territorial programs, with eligibility often based on income, family size, and residency.
📋 Child & Family Benefit Programs in the Northwest Territories
Child and family benefits help support parents and caregivers with everyday costs, including groceries, childcare-related needs, and other essentials. In the Northwest Territories, many families receive support through a mix of federal payments and territorial programs.
👨👩👧 Who May Qualify
- You live in the Northwest Territories
- You are the parent or primary caregiver of a child under age 18
- You are responsible for the child’s daily care and upbringing
- You (and your spouse/partner, if applicable) file income taxes each year
- You meet residency and income requirements for the benefit/program
📊 How Benefits Are Calculated
Many child and family benefits are calculated using family net income reported on your annual tax return. Benefits are typically reassessed after taxes are filed.
- Federal child benefits are usually paid monthly
- Amounts may change if income, custody, or family size changes
- Some territorial supports may be tied to income-tested rules
💵 Main Child & Family Benefits in the Northwest Territories
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) — a monthly federal payment for eligible families (administered by the CRA)
- Territorial/Community family supports — the NWT may offer programs that support families through early childhood, parenting resources, and community services (availability varies by community and program).
- Disability-related supplements — additional supports may be available for children with disabilities (if eligible)
Official resources Official
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Canada Child Benefit (CRA) — overview & eligibility
How the CCB works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
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CRA My Account — manage child benefits
Update address, custody, marital status, and other benefit-related changes.
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CRA — Child & Family Benefits contact
Official contact options for child and family benefits.
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GNWT ECE — Early Childhood Development (family & child supports)
Parenting resources and early childhood supports (programs vary by community).
🧾 How to Apply
1) Apply through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
- Apply for the CCB online or review options here: Canada Child Benefit (CRA)
- New parents may be able to apply during birth registration (depending on the process used)
- Paper applications are available if needed
2) File your income tax return every year
- Tax filing is required to start and continue most income-tested child benefits
- If you have a spouse/partner, both generally need to file (if applicable)
3) Keep your information up to date
- Use CRA My Account to report changes (address, custody, marital status, number of children): CRA My Account
📞 Help & Support
- Dial 2-1-1 for local family supports, childcare resources, financial supports, and community programs in the NWT: 211 Northwest Territories
- CRA child benefits enquiries: CRA Child & Family Benefits Contact
Frequently Asked Questions (Northwest Territories)
Tap a question to expand the answer.
1What child and family benefits are available in the Northwest Territories?
Many families receive support through the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and may also qualify for territorial family programs (which can vary by community and department). Additional supports may exist for childcare, early childhood programs, low-income supports, or disability-related needs depending on your situation.
2Who is eligible for child and family benefits in the Northwest Territories?
Eligibility typically depends on living in the NWT, being the parent/primary caregiver of a child under 18, meeting residency requirements, and having income assessed through annual tax filing (for income-tested benefits).
3Do I need to file taxes to get child benefits?
Yes. Most income-tested benefits use information from your income tax return. If you have a spouse or common-law partner, both usually need to file each year (if applicable) to keep benefits active and accurate.
4What is the Canada Child Benefit (CCB)?
The CCB is a federal monthly payment that helps eligible families with the cost of raising children. It’s administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and is based on family net income and number of children.
5Are there NWT-specific child or family benefit programs?
The NWT may offer territorial programs that support families through early childhood development, parenting resources, and community services. Program names, eligibility, and availability can vary by community, so it’s best to check official GNWT program pages and local services directories.
6How do I apply for child and family benefits in the NWT?
Most core child benefits (like the CCB) are managed through the CRA. You can apply online, through birth registration (when available), or by using paper forms. For territorial programs, follow the GNWT department instructions for the specific program.
7How often are child benefit payments made?
The CCB is typically paid monthly. Timing for any territorial benefits can vary by program. Payment schedules may change if your tax return is late or if your file needs verification.
8What documents are commonly needed?
You may need identification, proof of residency, child information (name/date of birth), and immigration/residency documents if applicable. Exact requirements depend on your situation and how you apply.
9What should I do if my family situation changes?
Report changes like custody, marital status, address, or direct deposit details as soon as possible. Many updates can be made through CRA My Account to help prevent overpayments or missed payments.
10Does OBenefitFinder approve or process benefit applications?
No. OBenefitFinder does not determine eligibility, process applications, or issue payments. We provide informational guidance only. Always apply through official government websites and portals.
🌍 Explore Benefit Programs in Other Provinces
Looking for benefits outside Northwest Territories? Explore official government benefit programs and assistance available in other Canadian provinces and territories.
Each guide links to trusted, official government resources and application pages.