Applications are now open to seniors for financial assistance to help with home heating costs during the upcoming winter months. Recognizing the impact of rising living costs on NWT residents, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT)  strengthened the Senior Home Heating Subsidy in recent years by increasing income thresholds and maintaining higher subsidy rates, allowing more seniors to qualify for more support.

Eligible seniors with low-to-moderate household incomes may receive between $460 and $750 per month, from September 2026 to April 2027.  The amount depends on their home community. 

A breakdown of zones, income thresholds and subsidy amounts:

The subsidy covers a portion of home heating costs. It does not cover the full cost. Seniors are responsible for any heating expenses that exceed the monthly subsidy amount. For more information about eligibility, contact your local Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) Service Centre: 

 

Beaufort Delta: 1-855-283-9311 
Dehcho: 1-833-995-7338 
North Slave: 1-866-768-8145 
Sahtu: 1-866-814-9840 
South Slave: 1-833-926-2110 
 
To apply, seniors must complete a Senior Home Heating Subsidy Application and provide proof of age, total household income, and proof of homeownership or rental accommodation to a local ECE Service Centre. Seniors are encouraged to apply early so their subsidy can begin in September. 

 

The application deadline is March 15, 2027. 

For assistance with the application, seniors may bring a family member, friend, or advocate to their appointment. 

For program details, including eligibility requirements, visit: 

Senior Home Heating Subsidy | Education, Culture and Employment 

 

For media requests, please contact:
Agata Gutkowska
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Email: ecepublicaffairs@gov.nt.ca