[Spring 2026 GPS] Canada Disability Benefit (CDB):

The CDB was introduced in 2025, with payments starting in July. It provides direct, tax-free financial assistance to low-income, working-age Canadians with disabilities. Payments are indexed to inflation and adjusted based on the family's adjusted income.

The CDB is delivered through Service Canada and is complementary to, rather than a substitute for, existing programs such as provincial disability subsidies and the Disability Tax Credit.

You will qualify if you:

• Are between 18 and 64 years old.
• Qualify for the federal Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
• You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes and filed your most recent federal income tax return (and spouse/partner, if applicable).
• Low income – as per thresholds set out in regulation (higher benefit amounts for lower incomes).

These criteria are intended to ensure that the benefit reaches those most at risk of poverty, while the tax system is used to assess income.

Those who are eligible can receive up to $204.2 per month, depending on income and family situation. The benefit is reduced as income increases, is completely phased out above specified income levels, and the lowest-income individuals receive the most. As mentioned before, the benefit is adjusted with inflation. The benefit is not taxable and doesn’t need to be disclosed on an income tax return.

You do not need to reapply every year, but your eligibility is checked annually. You must continue to meet the eligibility criteria, including remaining DTC-approved and completing your income tax return by April 30 each year.