Program Spotlight: Canada Disability Benefit (CDB)

The Canada Disability Benefit is a new federal income supplement launched June 20, 2025—providing up to $200/month (maximum $2,400/year) to eligible Albertans aged 18–64 who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and meet low-income criteria.

“The maximum benefit amount is $2,400 a year, or $200 a month… based on your income and your spouse’s income.”

Who Can Apply
Aged 18–64
Approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Filed 2024 income tax return (i.e., filed your 2024 taxes)
Canadian resident (citizen, permanent resident, or equivalent status)

Timeline & Eligibility
Applications opened June 20, 2025. First payments began in July 2025 for applications received by June 30; late applicants still get back‑payments to June 2025

How to Apply
Wait for your letter: Eligible individuals received a mail-out in June with a unique 6‑digit application code, which simplifies the process

Online: Apply through the Canada Disability Benefit portal on Canada.ca

Other options: Apply by phone (1‑833‑486‑3007 or TTY 1‑833‑467‑2700) or in-person at Service Canada

What to prepare: SIN, mailing address, direct deposit info, Line 23600 net income from 2024 Notice of Assessment. Application code (if you received a letter), or else just SIN and address

Important Caveat for Albertans
Alberta treats CDB as “income” when calculating benefits like AISH, Income Support, AADL, RAMP, etc.—meaning every dollar of CDB may be clawed back dollar-for-dollar from provincial benefits

So, if you receive AISH, your provincial support likely decreases by the same amount you receive from CDB—resulting in no net gain.

Next Steps
If you don’t receive a letter, but believe you’re eligible (i.e., have DTC and filed taxes), you can still apply. Need help applying or understanding Alberta’s benefits? Contact VAD for free assistance, 780-488-9088.