In a major move to support low-income Canadians with disabilities, the federal government has introduced the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB)—a new program offering up to $2,400 annually or $200 per month to eligible working-age individuals.
This non-taxable benefit is designed to reduce poverty, enhance income security, and improve quality of life for Canadians with disabilities. The payments are set to begin in August 2025, with broader rollout through early 2026.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of who qualifies, how much you can receive, and how to apply for this vital support program.
What Is the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB)?
The Canada Disability Benefit is a federal income support program created under Bill C-22, aimed at supporting Canadians with severe and prolonged disabilities who are not adequately served by existing provincial programs.
The benefit is modeled after other federal assistance programs like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), but tailored to address the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities.
As of 2025, qualified individuals will receive up to $200 per month, with annual payments totaling $2,400.
Why This New Disability Benefit Matters
According to Statistics Canada, over 1.4 million Canadians with disabilities currently live below the poverty line. While provinces provide disability assistance, many recipients still fall short of meeting basic needs.
The Canada Disability Benefit aims to bridge this financial gap by working in tandem with provincial and territorial programs. The federal government has stated that the CDB will serve as a national income floor, ensuring no Canadian with a disability is left behind.
Who Is Eligible for the Canada Disability Benefit in 2025?
To qualify for the CDB, applicants must meet the following federal criteria:
Basic Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: 18 to 64 years old
- Residency: Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Disability Status: Must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- Income Level: Must fall within the low-income bracket, as defined by federal guidelines
- Provincial Benefits: Cannot be receiving full income support from a provincial disability program
CDB Payment Structure Based on Income
Your annual net income determines the amount you receive:
| Annual Income Range | CDB Benefit Amount |
|---|---|
| $0 – $20,000 | Full $2,400 annually |
| $20,001 – $32,000 | Reduced benefit |
| Above $32,000 | Likely ineligible |
Note: Provincial coordination may affect exact amounts, but recipients will receive a guaranteed national minimum.
How Much Will You Receive Each Month?
The maximum benefit is $200 per month. However, the amount gradually decreases for individuals earning more than $20,000 annually, based on a sliding scale.
This benefit is non-taxable and will not impact eligibility for other federal supports, including:
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Disability
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Old Age Security (OAS)
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
How to Apply for the Canada Disability Benefit
The application process involves two steps:
Step 1: Apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
The DTC is mandatory for CDB eligibility. Here’s how to apply:
- Fill out Form T2201: Disability Tax Credit Certificate
- Get it certified by a qualified medical practitioner
- Submit it to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
- Await CRA approval (typically takes several weeks)
Already approved for the DTC? You can skip this step and move to the next.
Step 2: Apply for the CDB
Once you are DTC-approved:
- Log in to your CRA My Account
- Click on “Apply for Canada Disability Benefit”
- Submit your income details and supporting documentation
- Monitor your application status via the CRA dashboard
Paper-based applications will also be available for those without internet access.
When Will CDB Payments Begin?
The rollout schedule for CDB payments is as follows:
| Month | Payment Phase |
|---|---|
| August 2025 | Initial payments begin |
| September 2025 | Additional provinces onboard |
| January 2026 | Full national rollout completed |
Retroactive payments may be made to cover previous eligible months, depending on your approval date.
Will the CDB Affect My Provincial Disability Benefits?
The federal government is coordinating with provinces to ensure that CDB recipients do not lose their existing disability support.
Most provinces are updating legislation to classify the CDB as exempt income, meaning it will not reduce provincial benefit amounts.
However, it’s important to check with your local disability support office to confirm how the CDB will interact with your specific provincial assistance.
Why You Must Apply for the Disability Tax Credit First
The DTC is not just a tax credit—it serves as a gateway to many federal supports, including the new CDB.
The CRA has simplified the DTC application process in 2025 and launched awareness campaigns to help more Canadians qualify. If you haven’t yet applied, this should be your first step.
Next Steps: Prepare Now to Claim the CDB
The Canada Disability Benefit represents a landmark shift in how the government supports low-income Canadians with disabilities.
To ensure you receive the benefit:
- Confirm your eligibility for the Disability Tax Credit
- Gather necessary documentation for your application
- Apply through CRA My Account or by paper if needed
- Stay informed by monitoring updates from both federal and provincial programs
With monthly payments of up to $200, the CDB can help cover everyday expenses and bring greater financial stability to your household.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I get the CDB if I already receive provincial disability payments?
Yes, but your total benefit may be adjusted depending on your province. Most provinces are working to prevent clawbacks and treat the CDB as exempt income.
Q2. What if I’m not approved for the DTC?
You must qualify for the Disability Tax Credit to receive the CDB. If denied, you can appeal or reapply with stronger medical documentation.
Q3. Is the Canada Disability Benefit taxable?
No. The CDB is not considered taxable income, and it won’t reduce other federal income-tested benefits.