How do I apply for Income Assistance in Nova Scotia?

Call 1-877-424-1177 to book an intake appointment at your local Community Services office. Bring photo ID, proof of address, proof of income, your SIN, and bank statements for the last 3 months.

How much does Income Assistance pay in Nova Scotia?

Amounts vary by household size and region. It includes a basic personal allowance plus a shelter allowance. Contact Community Services at 1-877-424-1177 for current rates.

Can I get emergency financial help in Nova Scotia?

Yes. Emergency Assistance is available through Community Services (1-877-424-1177) for people facing immediate crisis like fire, flood, eviction, or sudden income loss. You do not need to be on Income Assistance to qualify.

Income Assistance in Nova Scotia: How to Apply, What You Get & Other Financial Help

Income Assistance in Nova Scotia

Income Assistance (sometimes called "welfare" or "social assistance") is a monthly payment for Nova Scotians who cannot meet their basic needs. It covers shelter, food, clothing, and personal allowances.

Who Can Apply

You may qualify if you:

Live in Nova Scotia
Are 19 or older (or 16+ with dependents)
Have no other adequate source of income
Have liquid assets (cash and bank accounts) of $500 or less (single) or $1,000 or less (family)

How to Apply

1. Call 1-877-424-1177 (Department of Community Services) to request an appointment

2. Attend an in-person intake meeting at your local Community Services office

3. Bring the required documents (listed below)

Documents You Need

Government-issued photo ID
Proof of address (lease, utility bill, or letter)
Proof of income (pay stubs, EI statement, or bank statements for last 3 months)
Social Insurance Number (SIN) card or letter
Bank statements for all accounts (last 3 months)

What You Receive

Amounts vary by household size, region, and circumstances. Income Assistance covers a basic personal allowance plus a shelter allowance. Special needs items may also be covered (medical transportation, special diet, etc.).

Emergency Assistance

If you are in immediate crisis — fire, flood, eviction, sudden income loss — you can receive emergency assistance even if you do not normally qualify for Income Assistance. Call 1-877-424-1177.

Other Financial Benefits You May Be Missing

Many Nova Scotians qualify for benefits they never applied for. Filing your taxes (even with zero income) unlocks several automatic payments:

GST/HST Credit — up to $519/year per adult
NS Affordable Living Tax Credit — up to $255/year plus $60 per child
Climate Action Incentive Payment — about $103/quarter per adult
NS Poverty Reduction Credit — up to $250/year (income under ~$16,000)
Canada Workers Benefit — up to $1,428/year (single) if you had employment income

Get your taxes done for free at a CVITP Free Tax Clinic — call 1-800-959-8281 to find one near you.

Not Sure What You Qualify For?

Use Aidvocate's income quiz to check your eligibility for Income Assistance and other financial support programs.