By: Gabriella Rabaa
In 2023, The Government of Canada passed the Canada Disability Benefit Act to create a monetary benefit for working-age Canadians with disabilities. Earlier this year, the program details were finalized, outlining eligibility requirements, payment amounts, and other key details.
The application process for the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) officially opened on June 20, with the first payments set to begin in July.
You may be eligible to receive payments through the CDB if you:
- Are age 18 to 64
- Currently hold a valid Disability Tax Credit Certificate
- Have filed your most recent income tax return. If you live with a spouse or common law partner, they must also have filed their most recent income tax return
- Have an income level below the appropriate threshold. Note that for individuals who live with a spouse or common law partner, eligibility calculations will include the income of both the applicant and their partner
The CDB is a means-tested benefit, meaning the maximum benefit amount of $200 per month will only be provided to eligible persons below a certain level of income. If your income is higher than the specified threshold, your payment amounts will decrease. If your family income exceeds the maximum income threshold, you will not receive payment amounts.
Multiple methods to complete an application are available, including:
- Electronically via online portal
- By telephone, with assistance from a Service Canada agent. To apply by telephone, call 1-833-486-3007
- In person at a Service Canada Centre
Individuals who already receive the Disability Tax Credit and are within the eligible age range should have received a letter from Service Canada with a unique application code giving them access to a streamlined application process. If you receive the Disability Tax Credit and did not receive a letter, you can proceed with the regular application process or contact a Service Canada agent for assistance.
Instructions on how to apply using each method and access the online portal are available on the Government of Canada’s website: Apply for the Canada Disability Benefit.
If you believe you are eligible for the CDB but did not receive a letter, you should still apply. However, you will also need to complete the application process for the Disability Tax Credit before you can begin receiving payments through the CDB.
For more information, visit the Government of Canada’s Canada Disability Benefit website. If you need further assistance, you can contact Service Canada through their dedicated Canada Disability Benefit telephone number at 1-833-486-3007 from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.