What is the Canada Disability Benefit?
The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) is a new financial support program introduced by the federal government to boost the financial security of working-age Canadians with disabilities. As part of the broader Disability Inclusion Action Plan, the CDB reflects Canada’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive society. The benefit will offer up to $2,400 annually, starting July 2025, for those who meet the eligibility requirements.
Who Can Apply?
The CDB is available to Canadians aged 18 to 64 who:
- Qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- Have filed their 2024 income tax return with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
- If applicable, have a spouse or common-law partner who has also filed their 2024 return
Importantly, even if someone does not receive an invitation letter, they may still apply. They will need to provide their mailing address and net income (Line 23600) from their 2024 Notice of Assessment.
How to Apply?
Eligible individuals can start applying from June 20, 2025 through any of the following ways:
- Online via the Government of Canada’s portal
- By phone
- In person at any Service Canada location
Applicants will need to have:
- Their Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Direct deposit details for payment
The government has emphasized that direct deposit ensures faster and more secure payment delivery.
Support Available During Application
To ensure accessibility and ease, several community-based organizations across Canada will assist with:
- Applying for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- Navigating the CDB application process
- Offering individualized support tailored to the needs of persons with disabilities
Additionally, applicants can now use the benefit estimator tool to find out how much they might be eligible to receive each month.
When Will Payments Start?
Applicants whose forms are received and approved by June 30, 2025, will begin receiving payments in July 2025. The CDB is paid monthly, with a maximum of $200 per month (or $2,400 annually).
The benefit will be adjusted annually for inflation, but payments will not decrease if the cost of living goes down.
Can You Get Retroactive Payments?
Yes. Eligible Canadians may receive retroactive payments for up to 24 months prior to the date their application is received. However, retroactive coverage will only begin from July 2025 onward—not before.
Why This Benefit Matters
The CDB represents a historic shift in how Canada supports low-income persons with disabilities. With a budget of $6.1 billion over six years and $1.4 billion annually thereafter, the program aims to uplift more than 600,000 Canadians, ensuring they have a dignified standard of living and improved access to essential resources.
This benefit was developed through engagement with over 8,000 Canadians, including people with disabilities, Indigenous organizations, disability advocates, and provincial and territorial partners. This approach reflects the federal principle of “Nothing Without Us”—a call to center the voices of those with lived experience in every stage of policymaking.
A Coordinated Approach
The federal government continues to collaborate with provinces and territories to ensure the CDB works in tandem with existing disability supports and income-tested programs. These conversations aim to avoid duplication and ensure that recipients experience meaningful financial improvements.
In Their Words
“The Canada Disability Benefit is a critical step forward… It’s about dignity, justice, and creating a more inclusive Canada.”
— Leslie Church, Parliamentary Secretary for Persons with Disabilities
“With the Canada Disability Benefit application set to open… financial support will be delivered to working-age, low-income persons with disabilities.”
— Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families
Quick Recap
- Launch date: Applications open June 20, 2025
- First payments: Start July 2025, if approved by June 30
- Eligibility: Ages 18–64, DTC qualified, 2024 taxes filed
- Annual amount: Up to $2,400
- Retroactive pay: Yes, from July 2025 up to 24 months
- Support: In-person, phone, online, and through community organizations
- Income-based: Calculated on adjusted family net income
Stay informed, stay empowered—stay tuned to Maple Wire for ongoing updates and helpful insights on Canada’s evolving benefits landscape.
