ADAP

The Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) is a new provincial disability income support program scheduled to launch in July 2026. ADAP will operate alongside AISH and is intended for individuals with severe disabilities who may still be able to participate in employment with supports.

Launch Date
ADAP is expected to officially launch July 2026. The Alberta government has stated that regulations are expected to be finalized in Spring 2026.

Benefit Amounts
Current announced ADAP financial supports include:
Up to $1,740 per month
Continued health benefits regardless of employment income
Employment supports and case management services

A temporary transition benefit has also been announced for some current AISH recipients transitioning into ADAP.

Employment Income Rules
One major focus of ADAP is employment participation.
The province states:
Single individuals may earn up to $700/month before benefits begin reducing
Individuals may continue receiving some benefits while earning employment income
Health benefits may continue even if financial benefits decrease due to employment income

Additional employment support services may include:
Career planning
Assistive technology
Supported employment placements
Personalized action plans with case managers

How ADAP Will Affect Current AISH Recipients
Beginning in July 2026:
Current AISH recipients will be reviewed for either AISH or ADAP eligibility
Some individuals will automatically remain on AISH, including:
Individuals over age 60
Individuals with severe/profound developmental disabilities
Individuals in continuing care
Individuals with terminal or palliative conditions

Individuals assessed as having some work capacity may transition to ADAP.

Combined Application System
There will now be:
One combined application for both AISH and ADAP

The assessment process will determine:
Whether a person qualifies for AISH
Or whether they qualify for ADAP instead

Individuals whose medical condition changes may later request reassessment for AISH.

Community Concerns & Advocacy
Many disability advocates and organizations have expressed concerns about:
Reduced monthly benefit amounts compared to AISH
Poverty impacts
Reassessment requirements
Employment expectations for people with disabilities
Lack of accommodating positions
Potential long-term financial reductions

Several Alberta municipalities and advocacy groups have also called for additional consultation and review of the program rollout.

What People Should Do Now
Individuals are encouraged to:
Stay informed about upcoming changes
Speak with medical professionals about documentation needs
Keep medical records updated
Watch for information from Alberta Supports
Reach out for assistance if unsure about how the changes may affect them
VAD Support Available

Voice of Albertans with Disabilities (VAD)
can help individuals:
Understand ADAP and AISH changes
Navigate applications and reassessments
Access information on benefits and supports
Connect with advocacy and community resources
Understand how employment income may affect benefits
If you have questions about ADAP, AISH, the Disability Tax Credit, or the Canada Disability Benefit, VAD is here to help support you through the process.