Canadians with disabilities can begin applying for the new Canada Disability Benefit starting June 20, with the first payments scheduled for July 2025, the federal government announced Friday.
The program will provide up to $2,400 annually to low-income individuals with disabilities between ages 18 and 64 who qualify for the disability tax credit and meet other eligibility requirements. The government estimates the benefit will support more than 600,000 Canadians.
Applications received and approved by June 30 will receive payments in July. Eligible individuals can apply online, by phone, or in person at Service Canada offices.
Eligibility requirements
To qualify, applicants must have received approval for the disability tax credit and filed their 2024 income tax return with the Canada Revenue Agency. Those with spouses or common-law partners must ensure their partner has also filed a 2024 tax return.
The federal government will mail letters to eligible Canadians inviting them to apply for the benefit.
Application support available
Community organizations across Canada will provide navigation services to help individuals apply for disability programs and benefits, including the disability tax credit and Canada Disability Benefit. The government has also launched a benefit estimator tool to help applicants determine their potential monthly payments.
“With the Canada Disability Benefit application set to open on June 20, financial support will be delivered to working-age, low-income persons with disabilities starting next month,” said Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families. “I want to extend my gratitude to disability advocates across the country who have worked tirelessly to help shape this historic benefit.”
Government investment
Budget 2024 allocated $6.1 billion over six years beginning in 2024-25, plus $1.4 billion in ongoing funding for the program. The benefit forms part of the Government of Canada’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan.
Leslie Church, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Jobs and Families, said the benefit represents progress toward financial security for working-age people with disabilities.
“The Canada Disability Benefit is a critical step forward in our work to improve financial security for working age persons with disabilities,” Church said. “Too many Canadians continue to face barriers that limit their full participation in our society and economy. This benefit is about dignity, justice, and creating a more inclusive Canada — one where everyone has the chance to thrive.”
Development process
The government consulted with more than 8,000 Canadians with disabilities, disability stakeholders, Indigenous governments and organizations, and provincial and territorial governments during the benefit’s development. Officials plan to continue seeking input for future improvements.
The government is working with provinces and territories to understand how the Canada Disability Benefit will interact with existing income-tested programs, including disability programs and social assistance.
For more information, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/disability/canada-disability-benefit.htm
