In a major development for disability support in Canada, the federal government has confirmed that eligible individuals will begin receiving up to $2,400 annually under the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) starting June 2025.
This new benefit aims to provide financial assistance to working-age persons with disabilities who are in financial need, helping to reduce poverty and improve quality of life.
Who Qualifies for the Canada Disability Benefit?
The CDB is targeted at low-income Canadians aged 18 to 64 who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). To be eligible, applicants must be Canadian residents, file their income taxes annually, and provide proof of disability under the DTC program.
The benefit is income-tested, meaning the full $2,400 per year is expected to go to those with little or no income, while those with moderate earnings may receive partial amounts.
Additional eligibility criteria may include receiving other provincial or territorial disability assistance, although that will not disqualify applicants from receiving the federal CDB.
Canada Disability Benefit Payout Schedule
| Month | Amount Paid | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| June 2025 | $200 | First monthly installment begins |
| July – December 2025 | $200/month | Ongoing monthly payments |
| Full Year Estimate | $2,400/year | Based on $200/month over 12 months |
The payments will be made on a monthly basis, starting June 28, 2025, and directly deposited to the beneficiary’s registered bank account.
How to Apply and What You Need
Those already approved for the Disability Tax Credit do not need to reapply for the CDB Service Canada will automatically assess eligibility based on income tax filings.
However, individuals who are not enrolled in the DTC must first apply for the credit through the CRA. The process involves a medical certification form completed by a qualified health practitioner.
Canadians are encouraged to verify their eligibility and ensure their tax filings and banking information are up to date to avoid delays in receiving payments. Further application details are expected to roll out in phases through provincial outreach campaigns.
Impact of the CDB on Provincial Disability Benefits
While the Canada Disability Benefit is federally administered, it is designed to complement, not replace, existing provincial and territorial support programs like ODSP (Ontario), PWD (British Columbia), and AISH (Alberta).
The federal government has stated that it is working with provinces to ensure the new benefit does not lead to clawbacks of existing disability support payments.