Starting July 2025, eligible Canadians with disabilities can receive up to C$2,400 per year through the new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB). That’s C$200 a month in non-taxable income aimed at supporting individuals aged 18 to 64 who face financial hardship due to disability. With applications opening in June 2025, now is the time to prepare.
This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and what steps to take before the deadline. If you or someone you know lives with a disability, this benefit could offer a real boost to your financial security.
Overview
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Canada Disability Benefit:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Benefit Amount | Up to C$2,400 (C$200 per month) |
| Start Date | July 2025 |
| Application Opens | June 2025 |
| Eligibility Age | 18–64 years old |
| Required Status | Must be approved for the DTC |
| Legal Residency | Citizen, permanent resident, protected or long-term temporary resident |
| Income Requirement | Must have filed taxes for prior year |
| Official Website | canada.ca |
The CDB is the first federal benefit of its kind focused solely on working-age adults with disabilities. It’s designed to work alongside—not replace—existing provincial supports.
Canada Disability Benefit
The CDB is a monthly, non-taxable federal benefit created under the Canada Disability Benefit Act, passed in 2023. It’s aimed at helping non-senior Canadians living with disabilities cover essentials like housing, food, medical care, and transportation.
Unlike OAS or GIS, this benefit targets adults aged 18 to 64. It also aligns with Canada’s goals under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, promoting inclusion and equality.
Who is eligible?
To receive the Canada Disability Benefit, you must meet all of these criteria:
Age
You must be between 18 and 64 years old at the time of applying.
Residency
You must live in Canada for tax purposes and have one of the following legal statuses:
- Canadian citizen
- Permanent resident
- Protected person
- Temporary resident living in Canada for at least 18 months
- Registered under the Indian Act
Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
You must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit. If you haven’t applied yet, you’ll need to fill out Form T2201 with your doctor.
Tax filing
You must have filed a personal tax return for the previous year. For July 2025 payments, your 2024 tax return must be filed by April 30, 2025.
Exceptions
If you are incarcerated for more than two years, you’re not eligible during the incarceration period—except the first and last months.
Amount
Eligible applicants may receive up to C$200 per month, or C$2,400 per year. The final amount depends on your income and possibly the benefits you already receive.
Since the benefit is non-taxable, it won’t count toward your income when applying for other supports or paying taxes.
Final income thresholds and formulas will be announced before applications open in June 2025.
How to apply
Applications officially open in June 2025, but here’s how you can get ready:
- Apply for the DTC: Submit Form T2201 to the CRA. Have it signed by your medical practitioner.
- File your taxes: Submit your 2024 tax return by April 30, 2025, to show income eligibility.
- Gather documents:
- Proof of DTC approval
- Government ID (passport, PR card)
- Direct deposit info
- Submit the application: You’ll be able to apply online or by paper through Employment and Social Development Canada.
- Track your status: After applying, you’ll get a confirmation number. Use your My Service Canada Account to check your application.
Important dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 15, 2025 | Regulations take effect |
| June 2025 | Application portal opens |
| July 2025 | First round of payments issued |
Will this affect provincial benefits?
The CDB is meant to supplement—not reduce—your provincial disability benefits. Some provinces have already confirmed they will not claw back provincial payments. Check with your local Ministry of Social Services to confirm.
Additional Help
- Disability Tax Credit support: Disability Alliance BC and March of Dimes Canada can help you apply
- Financial literacy: Prosper Canada offers free tools for people with disabilities
- Phone assistance: Call 1-800-O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) for help
FAQs
When do CDB payments begin?
Payments start in July 2025 for approved applicants.
Is the CDB taxable?
No, the Canada Disability Benefit is non-taxable.
Do I need the DTC to qualify?
Yes, DTC approval is a required eligibility condition.
How much is the CDB per month?
The benefit offers up to C$200 each month.
When can I apply for the CDB?
Applications open in June 2025 through Canada.ca.
