If you’re a senior homeowner in Alberta with a low income, you may qualify for the Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Program (SHARP) grant to help with essential home repairs. Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, qualifying repairs, and how to apply.
Table of Contents
What is the SHARP Grant?
The SHARP grant provides financial assistance of up to $5,000 per benefit year to eligible seniors for basic and essential home repairs. Over a lifetime, the maximum assistance is $15,000. These grants are designed to support seniors who cannot qualify for a SHARP loan.
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Eligibility Requirements
Personal Qualifications
You and your spouse/partner may be eligible if:
- You are not eligible for a SHARP loan.
- At least one of you is 65 years of age or older.
- You are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.
- You have been an Alberta resident for at least 3 months.
- You meet the low-income thresholds:
- Single senior: Total annual income of $33,410 or less.
- Senior couple: Combined annual income of $54,640 or less.
Additionally, you must be receiving or have applied for all other eligible seniors’ financial assistance.
Property Qualifications
Your property must be:
- Your primary residence (where you normally live).
- Owned under one of the following:
- Mobile homeowner on non-owned land.
- Registered life estate.
- Métis titleholder under the Metis Settlements Act.
- Fee simple owner (who is ineligible for a SHARP loan).
Second homes, rental properties, and commercial properties are not eligible.
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Income Considerations
The program assesses total income from your tax return, deducting certain amounts:
- Adjustments for Pension Income Splitting.
- Registered Disability Savings Plan income.
- Canada Pension Plan Death Benefit.
- Supplementary Accommodation Benefit (for seniors in continuing care homes).
- Lump-sum payments under the Heroes’ Compensation Act.
What Repairs Qualify?
The grant covers basic, essential repairs—not upgrades or renovations. Repairs must cost $500 or more, though multiple repairs can be combined to meet the minimum. Here are the supported repairs and their limits:
| Home Repair | Max Funded | Lifetime Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Bathroom repair | $5,000 | No limit |
| Furnace replacement | $4,000 | 1 |
| Electrical repair | $5,000 | No limit |
| House roof replacement | $5,000 | 1 |
| Plumbing repair | $5,000 | No limit |
| Mobile home skirting | $2,000 | 1 |
| Steps, landing, railings | $1,000/each | 2 |
| Exterior door replacement | $600/each | 2 |
How to Apply
Step 1: Read the Information Guide
Review the Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Information Guide for detailed instructions.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Fill out and sign the Loan Application and Agreement included in the guide. Ensure you’ve attached all necessary documents, such as estimates or receipts.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Mail your completed application with original signatures to:
Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair ProgramPO Box 1050 STN MainEdmonton, Alberta T5J 2M1
You can also submit supporting documents online or by fax at 780-643-2934.
After You Apply
SHARP staff will review your application and may contact you or your contractor for more information. If you’re approved, you’ll receive written confirmation of your eligibility.
- Grant Coverage: If the grant doesn’t fully cover the repair costs, you’ll need to confirm you can pay the remaining amount.
- Accounting Requirements: Submit receipts showing you paid for the repairs if you initially applied with estimates.
Review and Appeals
If your application is denied, you can request a review:
- Write to the Executive Director of Seniors Program Delivery with supporting documents.
- Upload your letter online or send it to:
Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Program (SHARP)PO Box 1050 STN MainEdmonton, Alberta T5J 2M1
Know Your Cancellation Rights
If you sign a repair contract but are found ineligible for a loan, you have the right to cancel the contract within 30 days of notification. Ensure you apply to SHARP within 45 days of signing the contract to enable this right.
Contact Information
For assistance, contact the Alberta Supports Contact Centre:
- Toll-free: 1-877-644-9992
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 8:00 pm (closed on statutory holidays)
With the SHARP grant, Alberta’s seniors can access financial support for vital home repairs, ensuring safety and comfort in their homes. Take the first step today to secure the assistance you deserve!
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