More than 6.3 million Canadians enrolled in the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) must renew their coverage between April 15 and June 1 to avoid a gap in benefits, the federal government announced Wednesday.
The renewal window applies to the 2026-27 benefit year. Members who miss the June 1 deadline can re-enrol starting June 2, but any dental services received during the gap will not be covered or reimbursed.
Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families, urged members to act before the deadline.
“The Canadian Dental Care Plan is helping millions of people across Canada afford the dental care they need — helping Canadians access the care they need when they need it and helping address health issues before they escalate and avoid costly, emergency treatment.”
How to renew
Members can renew online or by phone. Before starting, they must have filed their 2025 taxes and received their Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
To renew, members must confirm that they meet three conditions: they do not have access to private dental insurance; their adjusted family net income is below $90,000 based on their most recent tax information; and they are a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
Enrolment for new members and those who miss the June 1 deadline opens June 2.
Program reach
According to the government, the CDCP saves eligible Canadians an average of $900 per year on dental care. Over 4 million enrolled Canadians have already seen an oral health provider through the plan.
Health Minister Marjorie Michel also encouraged members to renew before the deadline.
“I encourage everyone to renew their coverage and continue receiving benefits without interruption.”
Employment and Social Development Canada and Service Canada said they will provide updates through social media, Service Canada Centres across the country, and Canada.ca throughout the renewal period.
