🇨🇦 Nunavut • Official-Resource Guide

Nunavut Benefits & Assistance Programs (2026 Guide)

A comprehensive guide to Nunavut government benefits and assistance programs, including income assistance, healthcare services, housing supports, food programs, disability services, and child & family benefits. Use this page to understand eligibility requirements and access official application resources.

📅 Last updated: December 24, 2025 ℹ️ Independent & informational
Disclaimer: OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Canada, any provincial or territorial government, or any government agency. The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and may change at any time. Eligibility rules, benefit amounts, and application processes are determined solely by official federal, provincial, or territorial authorities. Always verify details and apply directly through official government websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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Jump straight to the support category you need in Nunavut.

Nunavut • Food & Grocery Help

Food Assistance in Nunavut

Nunavut residents can find food support through community food programs, local food banks, and community food centres. Use the quick navigation below to find help fast and access trusted directories.

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Fresh groceries and food items

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 by location, so call ahead when possible.

  • Food banks & food hampers: groceries based on local availability and intake rules.
  • Community food centres: food boxes, produce programs, meals, and supports in some communities.
  • Local hamlet/community organizations: may coordinate emergency food supports in some areas.
Important: If you are in immediate danger or experiencing an emergency, call your local emergency number. Services may have reduced hours on weekends and holidays.

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

Tip: Ask about hours, intake, and whether an appointment or referral 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 residence/community (varies by provider).
  • 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 Nunavut if you’re not sure where to begin.
  • Try more than one provider if services are full or hours don’t work.
  • Ask about pickup/delivery options if transportation is a barrier.
  • Confirm weather/holiday closures, especially in winter months.
Note: Availability and eligibility can change. Always confirm details directly with the provider.

FAQ

What’s the fastest way to find food support in Nunavut?
Use 211 Nunavut to browse food bank listings and community supports, then contact providers to confirm hours and intake rules.
Is food bank support in Nunavut free?
Many food banks and community programs provide support at no cost, but services and rules vary by community and provider.
Do I need ID or proof of residence?
Some providers may ask for ID or proof of residence/community to confirm service area or household details. If you’re unsure, call ahead.
Disclaimer: OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Nunavut (Government of Nunavut / GN) or any government agency. Information may change. For the most accurate, up-to-date details, use official directories and contact providers directly.
Nunavut • Medical & Health

Medical & Health Coverage in Nunavut

Nunavut provides publicly funded health services for eligible residents through the Nunavut Health Care Plan (health care card/coverage), plus community health centres, hospital services, and mental health supports. Use the quick links below to jump to what you need.

🧾 Health coverage 🏥 Find care 💊 Prescription help 🧠 Mental health ❓ FAQ
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Healthcare and medical concept image

Nunavut Health Coverage (Health Care Card)

Nunavut residents typically need a Nunavut health care card (health coverage registration) to access insured medical services. Eligibility and waiting periods can depend on residency and your situation.

Health coverage resources Official

Clinics, Community Health Centres & Finding Care

Nunavut delivers primary care through community health centres and regional facilities, with a territorial hospital in Iqaluit. Use trusted directories to find the health centre closest to you and confirm hours/services.

Find care & services

Prescription Help (Common Options)

Prescription coverage depends on your situation. In Nunavut, some residents may qualify for Extended Health Benefits (EHB) for eligible services not covered under basic health coverage. First Nations and Inuit who are eligible may also have access to the federal NIHB program.

  • Extended Health Benefits (EHB): may help with eligible drugs, supplies, and other covered supports depending on program rules.
  • NIHB (federal): for eligible First Nations and Inuit, may cover prescription drugs and other benefits.
  • Ask your pharmacy: about generics, coverage options, and required documentation.

Prescription & benefits resources Official

Medical Travel (When Care Is Out of Community)

In Nunavut, medical travel may apply when a practitioner refers you to services not available in your community. Rules, co-payments, and eligibility can vary—use official guidance for the latest details.

Medical travel resources Official

Mental Health & Counselling

If you need someone to talk to, Nunavut has phone supports and community-based services. If you feel unsafe, seek urgent help right away.

Mental health support

Urgent care: If symptoms are severe or you are in immediate danger, call your local emergency number. For urgent but non-emergency care, contact your community health centre and ask about after-hours options.

FAQ

How do I get Nunavut health coverage (health care card)?
Use the official Nunavut Health Care Coverage application form and follow the instructions on the form. Eligibility can depend on residency and your situation, so review the form guidance carefully.
How do I find a clinic or health centre in my community?
Start with the 211 Nunavut directory listing for Department of Health facilities or use the Nunavut Health Facilities Map, then call ahead to confirm hours and services.
What if I can’t afford prescriptions?
Ask your pharmacy about generic options and whether you qualify for Nunavut Extended Health Benefits (EHB) or, if eligible, the federal NIHB program. Program rules vary, so confirm requirements using the official resources.
Disclaimer: OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Nunavut (Department of Health) or any government agency. Information may change. For the most accurate, up-to-date details, use official sources and contact providers directly.
Nunavut • Income Assistance

Income Assistance in Nunavut

Nunavut provides financial support for eligible residents who are unable to meet basic living expenses through the Income Assistance Program (Department of Family Services). Use this guide to understand common eligibility requirements and access trusted application and contact resources.

💵 Income Assistance ♿ Disability Support 📝 How to apply ❓ FAQ
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Income Assistance Program (Department of Family Services)

Nunavut’s Income Assistance Program may help eligible individuals and families who cannot meet basic living costs (like food, shelter, and utilities). Local intake and processes can vary by community—contact your local Income Assistance office to confirm how to start.

Who may qualify (common situations)

  • Nunavut residents with limited income and resources
  • Individuals or families experiencing financial hardship
  • People who are unemployed, underemployed, or unable to work
  • Applicants who meet territorial program requirements (reviewed by an Income Assistance worker)

How the program works (typical steps)

  • Applications are generally handled through a local Income Assistance office/worker
  • You may be asked to provide documents about income, housing, and household size
  • Workers may also connect you to employment, training, or other support services if relevant

Income Assistance resources Directory

Disability Support (Common Options)

If you’re living with a disability or long-term health condition, income supports may come from multiple sources. In Nunavut, this can include Income Assistance (case-by-case) plus federal disability benefits.

  • Income Assistance (Nunavut): your worker may consider disability-related needs and circumstances.
  • CPP Disability (federal): monthly payments for eligible contributors with a severe and prolonged disability.
  • Disability Tax Credit (federal): a non-refundable tax credit that may unlock other supports.

Disability support resources Official

Eligibility & Payment Notes

Eligibility and payment amounts depend on your household situation and can vary by community. Always confirm details with your local Income Assistance office or trusted official resources.

  • Income, resources, and living arrangements may be reviewed
  • Household size and community/location can affect needs and support levels
  • Additional supports may be available depending on circumstances
Note: Benefit amounts are not listed to avoid outdated information.

Documents You May Need

  • Government-issued ID
  • Proof of residence/community (as requested)
  • Income information (pay stubs, benefits, bank details if needed)
  • Housing costs (rent statement/lease, utilities if relevant)
  • Household details (who lives with you)
  • Medical/disability documentation (if applicable)

How to Apply

Helpful Contacts

Contacts Directory

FAQ

Can I apply for Income Assistance online in Nunavut?
In many cases, applications start through your local Income Assistance office/worker. Use 211 Nunavut to find contact details and confirm the current intake process for your community.
Is Income Assistance only for people who are unemployed?
Not always. Income Assistance may also support people who are unable to work due to illness, disability, or other approved circumstances (eligibility is assessed case-by-case).
Disclaimer: OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Nunavut, the Government of Canada, or any government agency. Program rules and eligibility may change—always confirm details using official sources and local program contacts.
Nunavut • Housing & Rent Help

Housing & Rental Assistance in Nunavut

Nunavut housing supports include public housing delivered through local housing organizations, rent supplement options for eligible renters, and the Canada–Nunavut Housing Benefit (CNHB) for eligible homeowners. Use the quick buttons and links below to jump to what you need.

🏘️ Programs 🏠 Public housing 💳 Rent help 📝 Apply ☎ Contacts
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🏘️ Main Housing & Rental Assistance Programs in Nunavut

1) Public Housing (Nunavut Housing Corporation + Local Housing Organizations)

Public housing in Nunavut is delivered in communities through Local Housing Organizations (LHOs). If you want to apply, you typically start by contacting your local housing organization to confirm eligibility and intake steps.

Who may qualify (common factors)

  • Nunavut residents with housing need and limited income/resources
  • Applicants who meet local eligibility rules (can include residency, arrears status, and other factors)
  • Households who can provide required documents and complete an application

Public housing resources Official

2) Canada–Nunavut Housing Benefit (CNHB) — Homeowner Support

The CNHB provides monthly financial help for eligible homeowners to support housing stability. Rules can change, so use the official CNHB page for the latest eligibility details and downloads.

CNHB resources Official

3) Rent Support (Private Market Rentals)

If you rent in the private market and need help with housing costs, some communities may have rent supplement options. Use a trusted directory to check current eligibility and how to apply.

Rent support resources Directory

🚨 Emergency Housing & Homelessness Support

If you’re facing homelessness, unsafe housing, or immediate housing loss, start with local crisis and housing support services. Availability can change quickly—call ahead whenever possible.

  • Emergency shelters and short-term accommodation
  • Outreach and stabilization services
  • Local housing and community support organizations
Urgent housing need: Use 211 Nunavut to locate shelters and emergency housing supports in your area.

👉 Find shelters/supportive housing: 211 Nunavut — Homeless Shelters & Supportive Housing

📊 Eligibility Notes

Housing support eligibility is typically based on income/resources, household size, and local availability. Waitlists can apply for public housing.

  • Income rules and support amounts can vary by program and community
  • Local Housing Organizations manage many public housing intake steps
  • Program rules can change—use official resources for current details
Note: Income limits and benefit amounts are not listed here to avoid outdated information.

🧾 Documents You May Need

  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Proof of Nunavut residency/community (as requested)
  • Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit statements, etc.)
  • Information for household members
  • Rent amount / landlord details (for rent supplement applications, if required)

📝 How to Apply

1) Public Housing

  • Contact your Local Housing Organization (LHO) to confirm eligibility and request application steps for your community.

👉 Start here: Find your Local Housing Organization (LHO) Public housing overview: Nunavut Housing Corporation — Public Housing

2) CNHB (Homeowner Support)

  • Review CNHB eligibility and download the guide/forms from the official CNHB page.

👉 Apply/learn more: CNHB — Nunavut Housing Corporation

3) Rent Support (if eligible)

  • Check the 211 listing for the current application process and requirements.

👉 Rent help listing: Transitional Rent Supplement Program (211 Nunavut)

☎ Helpful Housing Contacts

Contacts Directory

  • 211 Nunavut (housing & community support)
    Visit 211 Nunavut
    Find shelters, rent help, and local housing resources by community.
  • Nunavut Housing Corporation (NHC)
    Visit NHC
    Official housing programs and information for Nunavut.
  • Local Housing Organizations (LHOs)
    LHO contact list
    Contact your community housing office for public housing intake.
Disclaimer: OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Nunavut, Nunavut Housing Corporation, 211 Nunavut, or any housing authority. Program availability and eligibility rules may change—always confirm details using official sources.
Nunavut • Child & Family Benefits

Child & Family Benefits in Nunavut

Nunavut families may qualify for child and family financial supports that help with the cost of raising children. Many households receive support through federal benefits (like the Canada Child Benefit) plus territorial programs and services delivered in communities. Eligibility is often based on income, family size, and residency.

✅ Who qualifies 💵 Main benefits 📝 How to apply 📞 Help
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Family support and child benefits concept image

📋 Child & Family Benefit Programs in Nunavut

Child and family benefits help support parents and caregivers with everyday costs, including groceries, childcare-related needs, and other essentials. In Nunavut, many families receive support through a mix of federal payments and territorial programs and services delivered through community-based supports.

👨‍👩‍👧 Who May Qualify

  • You live in Nunavut
  • 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 program
Eligibility and payment amounts depend on household income, family size, and residency/immigration status.

📊 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 supports and services may be income-tested or needs-based
Note: Benefit rates and eligibility rules can change. We do not list payment amounts to avoid outdated info.

💵 Main Child & Family Benefits for Nunavut Residents

  • Canada Child Benefit (CCB) — a monthly federal payment for eligible families (administered by the CRA)
  • Child Disability Benefit (CDB) — an additional monthly amount for eligible families caring for a child with a disability (linked to CCB)
  • Territorial family supports & services — community programs may help with parenting supports, family services, and referrals (varies by community)

Official resources Official

🧾 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) If applying for disability-related child supports

  • To receive the Child Disability Benefit, the child must generally be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
  • DTC information: Disability Tax Credit (CRA)

📞 Help & Support

Disclaimer: OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Canada, the Canada Revenue Agency, or the Government of Nunavut. Benefit eligibility, payment amounts, and application rules may change—always confirm details using official government sources.

Frequently Asked Questions (Nunavut)

Tap a question to expand the answer.

1What child and family benefits are available for Nunavut residents?

Many families receive support through the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). Some households may also qualify for the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) if eligible. In addition, community and territorial services may offer family supports and referrals depending on your location and needs.

2Who is eligible for child and family benefits in Nunavut?

Eligibility typically depends on living in Nunavut, being the parent/primary caregiver of a child under 18, meeting residency requirements, and having income assessed through annual tax filing.

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.

5What is the Child Disability Benefit (CDB)?

The CDB is an additional monthly benefit for eligible families caring for a child with a disability. It’s generally connected to the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and paid along with the CCB (if eligible).

6How do I apply for child and family benefits in Nunavut?

Most core child benefits are managed through the CRA. You can apply online, through birth registration (when available), or by using paper forms. Filing taxes each year is important to start and keep benefits.

7How often are child benefit payments made?

The CCB is typically paid monthly. Payment schedules may change if your tax return is late, your file needs verification, or your information changes.

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 Nunavut? Explore official government benefit programs and assistance available in other Canadian provinces.

These guides link to trusted, official government resources and application pages.