Starting July 2025, eligible Canadians living with disabilities can receive up to $2,400 annually through the new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB). This monthly, non-taxable payment of up to $200 is designed to help reduce poverty and boost financial independence for working-age individuals with disabilities.
If you qualify—or think you might—it’s the right time to learn about the benefit, eligibility, how to apply, and what steps to take to get ready.
The CDB isn’t just another assistance program—it’s a national milestone. Passed under the Canada Disability Benefit Act (Bill C-22), this benefit addresses a long-standing gap in federal support for disabled adults aged 18 to 64. Here’s everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
Overview
The Canada Disability Benefit aims to provide financial support where it’s most needed. Here’s a summary of what the program offers:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Amount | Up to $2,400 (or $200 per month) |
| Start Date | July 2025 |
| Application Opens | June 2025 |
| Eligibility Age | 18–64 years |
| Main Requirement | Approval for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) |
| Residency Requirement | Must be a legal resident or citizen of Canada |
| Tax Filing Required | Yes, for the prior year |
| Official Website | canada.ca |
With its launch, the CDB becomes Canada’s first national disability income benefit targeted specifically at non-senior adults.
Canada Disability Benefit
The Canada Disability Benefit is a monthly, non-taxable payment meant to help disabled Canadians afford essentials like housing, food, medical care, and transportation. It was created to work alongside—not replace—existing provincial and territorial disability programs.
This benefit aligns with Canada’s commitments under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and supports a more inclusive approach to social policy. It’s a direct response to the high poverty rates among working-age people with disabilities.
Who Is Eligible?
You must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement
You must be between 18 and 64 years old at the time of your application.
Residency
You must live in Canada and hold one of the following statuses:
- Canadian citizen
- Permanent resident
- Protected person
- Temporary resident living in Canada for at least 18 months
- Registered or entitled under the Indian Act
Disability Tax Credit (DTC) Approval
You must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit. This is the government’s official confirmation of your disability status.
Tax Filing
You need to have filed your income tax return for the previous year. This helps determine your income eligibility.
Note: Incarcerated individuals are not eligible during most of their sentence, with exceptions only for the first and last month of incarceration.
How Much Will You Get?
The maximum benefit is $200 per month, or $2,400 annually. However, the exact amount may be reduced depending on your income level and other disability-related supports you receive.
The final income thresholds and payment formula are expected by June 2025. The CDB will not count as income and will not affect eligibility for most federal programs.
How to Apply
Even though applications don’t open until June 2025, you can prepare now. Here’s how:
- Apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Submit Form T2201 to the CRA. A licensed medical practitioner must complete it. - File Your Taxes
File your 2024 return before April 30, 2025, to meet income documentation requirements. - Prepare Your Documents
You’ll likely need:- Proof of DTC approval
- Identification (passport, PR card, etc.)
- Banking info for direct deposit
- Submit Your Application
Apply online via the portal at canadadisabilitybenefit.ca or send a paper form through Service Canada. - Track Your Status
Use My Service Canada Account to follow your application once submitted.
Dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 15, 2025 | Benefit regulations take effect |
| June 2025 | Application portal opens |
| July 2025 | First monthly payments begin |
Other Disability Supports
The CDB is designed to top up—not replace—existing support. Some provinces have confirmed that receiving the CDB won’t impact your provincial disability payments. But this can vary, so check with your local government or social services agency.
Resources
- Disability Alliance BC and March of Dimes Canada can help with DTC applications
- Prosper Canada offers financial tools for people with disabilities
- For questions, call 1-800-O-Canada (1-800-622-6232)
By planning now, you’ll be ready to apply the moment the portal opens. The Canada Disability Benefit has the potential to change lives—make sure you don’t miss out.
FAQs
When will the benefit start?
The first payments will begin in July 2025.
How much is the benefit per year?
Eligible recipients can get up to $2,400 annually.
Do I need DTC approval?
Yes, DTC approval is required to qualify.
Will CDB affect provincial benefits?
No, it’s designed to supplement—not replace—existing programs.
Where do I apply for the benefit?
Apply online at canadadisabilitybenefit.ca or by mail.
