The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) started in 2025 to support Canadians living with disabilities. It provides direct monthly payments to help cover rising costs.
If you are between 18 and 64 years old and approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), you may qualify. This guide explains the new payment amounts, eligibility rules, and how to apply.
What is the Canada Disability Benefit?
The Canada Disability Benefit is a government program that provides monthly payments to eligible Canadians. To qualify, you must:
- Be 18 to 64 years old.
- Live in Canada with accepted residency status.
- Be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
The aim is to reduce poverty among people with disabilities by giving direct financial support.
When Did It Start?
- The benefit officially began in June 2025.
- First payments were issued in July 2025 if applications were approved before June 30.
- Eligible applicants can receive back payments for up to 24 months, but not before June 2025.
Canada Disability Benefit 2025 Payment Amounts
The payment is based on income and family status. Here are the amounts for the first year:
| Payment Period | Maximum Annual Amount | Maximum Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| July 2025 – June 2026 | $2,400 | $200 |
- The benefit is income-tested, meaning higher family income reduces the amount.
- A working income exemption applies:
- Single: first $10,000 does not count.
- Couples: first $14,000 combined does not count.
This exemption helps people keep some benefit even while working.
Eligibility Rules
You must meet all of the following:
- Age: Between 18 and 64 years. If you turn 65, you remain eligible in that month.
- DTC approval: You must hold the Disability Tax Credit certificate.
- Tax filing: You and your spouse/partner (if any) must file your tax return for the previous year. For the 2025–26 benefit, you need to file your 2024 return.
- Residency: Must be a Canadian resident with accepted legal status.
- Restrictions: Not serving two years or more in a federal prison.
How Income Reduces the Benefit
- If your adjusted family net income goes above a set threshold, the benefit reduces.
- For every dollar earned above the limit, the benefit usually drops by 20 cents.
- Thanks to the income exemption, part of your working income is ignored, so you may still qualify for some payments.
How to Apply
- Apply through Service Canada online or in person.
- Ensure you have DTC approval before applying.
- File your tax returns on time, as payments depend on income data.
Payments are made on the third Thursday of each month after approval.
Key Things to Remember
- First payments began in July 2025.
- Maximum benefit is $200/month or $2,400/year.
- Filing taxes and keeping DTC active are essential.
- You may qualify for back payments up to 24 months.
Canada Disability Benefit: The Canada Disability Benefit 2025 provides crucial financial help to Canadians with disabilities aged 18–64. With a maximum of $200 per month or $2,400 per year, this program is income-tested but includes exemptions to protect working income.
To get it, you must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit, file taxes, and apply through Service Canada. This new benefit can reduce financial stress and improve the lives of thousands of Canadians who need extra support.
FAQs
What is the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)?
The DTC is a certificate from the Canadian government that says you have a disability. It is required before you can get the Canada Disability Benefit.
Can I get old payments (back payments) if I apply late?
Yes, you may get back payments for up to 24 months before your application, but not before June 2025.
If my income is high, will I get nothing?
If your income goes above certain thresholds, the benefit reduces and might become $0. But there are exemptions so that some working income won’t count.