Starting June 20, Canadians living with disabilities can apply for the new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), part of the federal government’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan. The benefit is designed to provide additional financial support to eligible individuals across the country.
To qualify, applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 64 and meet specific criteria, including eligibility for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and the completion of a 2024 income tax return with the Canada Revenue Agency. In some cases, a spouse or common-law partner’s tax return may also be considered. The government will send personalized letters to some Canadians in June, containing application codes and step-by-step instructions. However, those who do not receive a letter but meet the requirements are still encouraged to apply with their mailing address and 2024 net income as stated on line 23600 of their Notice of Assessment.
Applications can be submitted online, over the phone, or in person at any Service Canada office. Required documents include a Social Insurance Number and direct deposit information, which ensures faster and more reliable payment. Various community-based organizations will also assist Canadians through the application process, particularly with accessing the DTC if needed.
Those who apply and are approved by June 30 will receive their first payment in July. The benefit amount is based on adjusted family net income, with a maximum of $2,400 per year or $200 per month. The amount is indexed annually for inflation and will not decrease even if the cost of living drops.
In addition, applicants may be eligible for retroactive payments for up to 24 months prior to their application date, though payments will only apply from July 2025 onward.
