The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is expanding the criteria for forgiveness of debts under Housing NWT’s legacy mortgage program.

Residents with legacy Housing NWT mortgages may be eligible to have their remaining mortgage forgiven if they meet one of the following criteria:

• They experience significant financial challenges (income below the Core Need Income Threshold).
• They have paid more than the assessed value of the property.
• They have paid an amount equal to or greater than the original mortgage principal.

Residents must also currently live in the home tied to the mortgage to qualify for forgiveness, though this condition may be waived where there are extenuating circumstances, for example, if a client is away for medical reasons.

If a client does not qualify for debt forgiveness, they can work with Housing NWT to explore other options to reduce their mortgage debt, including an option for zero percent interest on future mortgage payments. Staff will be able to support clients with the application process and are receiving training to ensure the new criteria is consistently applied.

All Housing NWT mortgage holders will receive a letter in March 2026 encouraging them to meet with their District Office to discuss the program and their situation.

Quotes

“Today, we announce that the GNWT has taken an important step in addressing long standing concerns with the legacy mortgage program. By expanding options for mortgage forgiveness, we are providing meaningful financial relief to residents and responding directly to the issues raised by MLAs and communities. This change in approach to debt forgiveness allows us to support those who are struggling while also recognizing those who have met their repayment obligations, demonstrating our commitment to fairness, transparency, healing and supporting residents in need.  I am proud to be responding to community calls for change in a way that promotes dignity, fairness, and responsible program modernization. This will help people move forward with greater stability in their homes, and allow this government to focus on delivering more homes for Northerners.”

- The Honourable Lucy Kuptana, Minister Responsible for Housing Northwest Territories 

“For many years, I have brought forward the concerns of Elders, families, and homeowners who were struggling with legacy mortgages and the confusion and hardship it created. I have heard from people who did not fully understand the agreements they signed decades ago and who have carried these debts ever since. I am pleased to see the GNWT respond to these long‑standing calls for change by expanding the criteria for debt forgiveness. This is a meaningful step toward resolving historical issues, providing people with stability, and allowing Housing NWT to focus on delivering more effective supports.”

- Jane Weyallon Armstrong, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Monfwi Riding 

Quick facts

• The GNWT is establishing new debt forgiveness criteria that allows Housing NWT mortgage holders to seek debt forgiveness if they are eligible.
• Housing NWT mortgage holders will receive a letter regarding the new criteria in March 2026.
• Housing NWT mortgage programs were offered from early 1990s to 2007.
• Housing NWT’s mortgage portfolio currently includes 193 mortgages totaling $15.3 million.

Related links

• https://www.facebook.com/HousingNWT

For media requests, please contact:
Communications 
Housing NWT
Government of the Northwest Territories
NWTHC_comms@gov.nt.ca