Canada is rolling out a major new income support initiative — the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) — aimed at helping working-age Canadians with disabilities gain greater financial stability.
Announced by Minister Patty Hajdu, the benefit opens for applications on June 20, 2025, and is expected to reach more than 600,000 eligible individuals aged 18 to 64.
This benefit is a cornerstone of the federal Disability Inclusion Action Plan, which focuses on reducing poverty, improving quality of life, and promoting equality for persons with disabilities.
With first payments starting in July 2025, the CDB could be a game-changer for many Canadians facing long-standing financial challenges.
Table of Contents
Overview
The CDB offers direct monthly financial support to low-income individuals with disabilities. Unlike provincial disability benefits, this federal support doesn’t replace other assistance — it adds to it.
The idea is to cover additional costs that come with living with a disability, such as specialized healthcare, transportation, and accessible housing.
Each eligible person could receive up to $2,400 per year — about $200 monthly. The exact amount depends on income level and family size. Applications received and approved by June 30, 2025, will be processed in time for the first round of payments the following month.
Eligibility
To qualify for the CDB, there are a few key requirements:
- Be between the ages of 18 and 64
- Have an approved Disability Tax Credit (DTC) certificate
- File a 2024 income tax return
- If applicable, a spouse or common-law partner must also file a 2024 tax return
The DTC is essential. Without it, you’re not eligible for the CDB. So if you haven’t applied for the DTC yet, now’s the time. The CRA can take a few weeks to review and approve an application, so acting early matters.
Access
The application process is designed with accessibility in mind. You’ll be able to apply:
- Online through the Government of Canada portal
- In person at any Service Canada office
- By phone through dedicated support lines
To help applicants with the process, the government is partnering with community organizations that provide free support with paperwork, DTC applications, and documentation. These supports are especially useful for people facing barriers like low literacy or mobility challenges.
There’s also a handy online Benefit Estimator Tool to help you calculate how much you might receive monthly — a helpful planning step while waiting for approval.
Funding
The government is investing heavily in the Canada Disability Benefit. Here’s a breakdown of its financial structure:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Annual Benefit Amount | $2,400 (up to $200 per month) |
| Eligibility Age Range | 18 to 64 years |
| Initial Investment (2024–2030) | $6.1 billion over six years |
| Annual Federal Funding (2025+) | $1.4 billion ongoing |
| Estimated Number of Recipients | Over 600,000 |
| First Payment Date | July 2025 (if approved by June 30) |
This setup ensures long-term stability while delivering timely monthly assistance. The benefit won’t reduce existing provincial or territorial disability supports — the government has pledged to coordinate with local programs to prevent clawbacks.
Outreach
To boost early participation, the government will send letters to Canadians with valid Disability Tax Credit certificates. These letters will include step-by-step instructions on how to apply and where to find support.
Even if you don’t receive a letter, you can still apply as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. The government encourages everyone eligible to apply early to avoid delays.
Impact
The CDB isn’t just about money — it’s about equity, inclusion, and dignity. By lifting people out of poverty and reducing reliance on emergency assistance, the program could lead to meaningful improvements in daily life.
| Outcome | Description |
|---|---|
| Poverty Reduction | Fewer people with disabilities in poverty |
| Financial Independence | Less reliance on food banks and crisis aid |
| Access to Services | Easier to afford health, housing, transport |
| Social Inclusion | Better access to education and employment |
| Federal-Provincial Harmony | Works alongside existing disability programs |
This benefit represents a new chapter in how Canada supports persons with disabilities. With broad input from over 8,000 individuals during consultations, it’s a policy shaped by lived experience.
FAQs
When does the Canada Disability Benefit start?
Applications open June 20, 2025; first payments roll out in July.
Who qualifies for the CDB?
Adults 18–64 with a valid Disability Tax Credit and 2024 tax return.
How much can I receive monthly?
Up to $200/month, depending on income and household status.
Does CDB replace provincial disability aid?
No, it adds to existing provincial or territorial supports.
Where do I apply for the benefit?
Online, by phone, or at any Service Canada location.
