The federal government has finalized regulations for the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), paving the way for payments to begin in July, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities Kamal Khera announced Monday.
The CDB, designed to supplement existing federal, provincial, and territorial income support programs, will provide financial assistance to eligible Canadians with disabilities. The benefit, backed by a $6.1-billion investment over six years starting in 2024–25 and $1.4 billion annually thereafter, is expected to support more than 600,000 people.
“This is a significant and historic accomplishment,” Khera said in a statement. “The CDB is an important step forward in improving Canada’s social safety net and ensuring the inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities.”
The final regulations, which take effect on May 15, outline eligibility criteria and benefit calculations. Individuals between the ages of 18 and 64 who have been approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) will be able to apply. Further details on the application process, including timelines and instructions, will be released in the coming months.
The CDB will be a new income-tested benefit providing low- and modest-income working-age persons with disabilities up to $200 per month in financial support.
Khera said the development of the regulations involved consultations with Canadians with disabilities, disability advocacy groups, Indigenous organizations, and provincial and territorial governments.
The final CDB regulations will be published in the Canada Gazette, Part II, in the coming weeks.
