The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) is a pivotal new support for working-age Canadians with disabilities facing financial hardship. The 2025 application process officially opened on June 20, 2025, with the first payments set to reach eligible recipients in July. This landmark initiative is designed to reduce poverty among people with disabilities and facilitate greater social inclusion.
What is the Canada Disability Benefit?
The Canada Disability Benefit is a monthly financial support program targeting working-age Canadians (ages 18–64) with disabilities who have low incomes. While the benefit itself is not new, the 2025 application cycle marks a significant step forward in accessibility and reach. The program is a core component of Canada’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan, reflecting a commitment to building a more equitable society.
The federal government has allocated $6.1 billion over six years, with an additional $1.4 billion annually, to support this initiative. The goal is to assist more than 600,000 low-income individuals with disabilities across the country.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18–64 years |
| Disability Requirement | Approved for Disability Tax Credit (DTC) |
| Residency | Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or certain protected/temporary |
| Tax Filing | 2024 income tax return filed (and partner’s if applicable) |
| Maximum Benefit | $200/month ($2,400/year) |
| Income Threshold (Single) | <$23,000: full benefit; $23,000–$45,000: reduced; >$45,000: not eligible |
| Income Threshold (Couple) | <$32,500: full benefit; $32,500–$58,500: reduced; >$58,500: not eligible |
| Application Methods | Online, by phone, in person |
| Application Period | Opened June 20, 2025; late applications accepted with back payments |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Canada Disability Benefit, applicants must meet several key requirements:
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Age: Between 18 and 64 years old.
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Disability Status: Approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
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Residency: Canadian citizen or resident, including permanent residents and certain protected or temporary residents.
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Tax Filing: Must have filed their 2024 income tax return.
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Partner’s Tax Filing: If the applicant has a spouse or common-law partner, that partner must also have filed their 2024 tax return.
These conditions are mandatory and must be met for an application to be processed.
How the Benefit Amount Is Determined
The amount received from the Canada Disability Benefit depends on household income. The maximum annual benefit is $2,400, or $200 per month. However, the actual payment is adjusted based on income levels:
| Annual Income Range (Single) | Benefit Amount |
|---|---|
| Less than $23,000 | Full $200/month |
| $23,000 – $45,000 | Gradually reduced |
| Above $45,000 | Not eligible |
| Annual Household Income Range (Couple) | Benefit Amount |
|---|---|
| Less than $32,500 | Full $200/month |
| $32,500 – $58,500 | Gradually reduced |
| Above $58,500 | Not eligible |
If both partners in a couple qualify for the benefit, the household income threshold for a full payment remains at $32,500, but the benefit reduces more slowly and phases out completely at $70,500. Additionally, individuals who earn $10,000 or more from employment may be allowed a slightly higher household income and still qualify for the full amount.
How to Apply for the Canada Disability Benefit
The government has made the application process as accessible as possible, offering multiple options:
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Online: Through the official Service Canada portal.
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By Phone: Calling Service Canada for guided support.
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In Person: Visiting any nearby Service Canada office.
Individuals already eligible for the DTC may receive invitation letters with instructions on how to apply. The government has also introduced an online Canada Disability Benefit Estimator to help applicants calculate their potential benefit based on income and household factors.
Important Steps Before Applying
To avoid delays, applicants are advised to:
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File their 2024 income tax return (and ensure their partner has done the same).
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Apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) if not already approved.
These steps are mandatory for eligibility.
What Happens If You Apply Late?
Although the first payment cycle ends on June 30, 2025, applications can still be submitted later in the year. Eligible applicants who apply after June 30 may receive back payments for the months they missed. The government allows individuals to apply within a two-year period and still receive benefits for eligible past months, ensuring flexibility for those who need more time to gather documents or understand the process.
Why the Canada Disability Benefit Matters
The Canada Disability Benefit is more than just financial support; it is a step toward greater social inclusion and dignity for people with disabilities. Many Canadians with disabilities face significant barriers to employment and stable income, making this monthly support essential for meeting basic needs.
The program reflects the principle of “Nothing Without Us,” ensuring that people with disabilities are included in government planning and decisions that affect them. Over 8,000 Canadians, including disability rights advocates, Indigenous groups, and provincial and territorial governments, contributed to shaping the program to address the unique needs of the disability community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Who is eligible for the Canada Disability Benefit?
Canadians aged 18–64 with a low income and Disability Tax Credit (DTC) approval. -
How much can I receive from the Canada Disability Benefit?
Up to $200 per month, depending on household income. -
What if I miss the June 30, 2025 deadline?
You can still apply later and may receive back payments for eligible months.
Canada Disability Benefit Scheme Data
The Canada Disability Benefit represents a major advancement in Canada’s commitment to supporting people with disabilities. By offering accessible application options, flexible deadlines, and a robust support structure, the program aims to ensure that no eligible individual is left behind. If you or someone you know may qualify, review your documents and prepare your application as soon as possible.