ADAP Has Arrived: What You Need to Know

The Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) is now in effect, bringing significant changes to income support for many Albertans with disabilities. As the transition continues, Voice of Albertans with Disabilities (VAD) has been hearing from individuals across the province who have questions, concerns, and uncertainty about what these changes mean for them.

What is ADAP?
ADAP is Alberta’s new disability income support program designed for individuals with disabilities who may be able to participate in employment now or in the future with appropriate supports. The program is intended to provide financial assistance while encouraging workforce participation where possible.

Many current and prospective disability support recipients are trying to understand how ADAP differs from existing programs and how it may impact their financial security and future planning.

Key Differences Between ADAP and AISH
While both programs provide support to Albertans with disabilities, there are several notable differences:
ADAP provides a monthly benefit that is lower than the current AISH benefit amount.
ADAP includes earned-income provisions designed to encourage employment participation.
Individuals may continue to receive health benefits even if their monthly income support payment is reduced or suspended due to earnings.
ADAP includes an appeal process for decisions made under the program.
AISH remains available for individuals whose disabilities prevent them from working and who meet the program’s eligibility requirements.

Because every person’s circumstances are different, understanding which program applies and how benefits may be affected can be complex.

How VAD Can Help
VAD continues to provide free one-to-one support to Albertans with disabilities throughout this transition.

Our Community Support Workers can assist with:
Understanding ADAP eligibility and requirements
Reviewing letters and notices received from the government
Completing disability-nrelated applications and forms
Exploring other benefits and supports that may be available
Providing information and referrals to additional resources
Understanding appeal options and processes

If you are unsure about a letter you have received or have questions about how ADAP may affect you, we encourage you to contact our office.

What We Are Hearing From Members
Since ADAP was announced, VAD has received a growing number of inquiries from members and community members across Alberta. Common questions include:

Will I remain eligible for support?
How will employment income affect my benefits?
What happens if my health condition changes?
Will my health benefits continue if I start working?
What should I do if I disagree with a decision?

Many individuals have expressed concerns about affordability, housing costs, food prices, and the impact that any reduction in monthly income could have on their quality of life. Others are looking for clear information so they can make informed decisions about employment, education, and long-term planning.

VAD is committed to listening to the experiences of Albertans with disabilities and sharing community feedback with decision-makers whenever opportunities arise.

We Are Here to Help
Change can be challenging, especially when it affects financial stability and essential supports. Whether you are navigating ADAP, AISH, CPP-D, the Disability Tax Credit, the Canada Disability Benefit, or other programs, VAD is here to help.