A major milestone in disability support is here. Starting July 17, 2025, the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) will begin issuing monthly $200 payments to eligible Canadians.
This long-anticipated program is the first national income support for working-age adults with disabilities, marking a historic step in Canada’s commitment to inclusion and financial equity.
With applications already open and the first wave of payments landing this week, here’s everything you need to know about the new benefit, including who qualifies, how much you’ll receive, and how to apply.
What Is the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB)?
The Canada Disability Benefit is a new federal support program providing monthly payments of up to $200 to low-income Canadians with disabilities, aged 18 to 64.
Administered by Service Canada, the benefit is designed to help cover extra living expenses associated with having a disability. It’s income-tested, indexed to inflation, and complements other government supports like the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
Eligibility Criteria for the Canada Disability Benefit
To qualify for the CDB, you must meet all the following criteria:
- Be 18 to 64 years old
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or eligible temporary resident (resided in Canada for 18+ months)
- Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Have filed your 2024 income tax return
- Be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Ineligible individuals include those currently serving a federal sentence of two years or more, excluding the first and last month of incarceration.
How to Apply for the Canada Disability Benefit
There are two application pathways:
1. If You Received a Service Canada Invitation Letter:
- Use the 6-digit application code in the letter
- Apply online using your SIN and ID
- Include direct deposit details for faster payment
2. If You Didn’t Receive a Letter:
- You can still apply
- Provide SIN, Canadian status, mailing address, and optionally, your 2024 tax info
- Apply online, by mail, in person, or by phone
Processing time:
- 28 calendar days for individual applications
- Up to 49 days if submitted by a legal representative
Payment Amounts: How Much Will You Receive?
The maximum payment is $2,400 annually or $200 per month, indexed to inflation. However, actual benefit amounts depend on income and household composition.
Canada Disability Benefit Payment Breakdown:
| Recipient Type | Income Threshold for Full Benefit | Benefit Reduction Begins | Zero Benefit Threshold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Recipient | $23,000 (plus $10,000 exempt income) | $33,000 | $45,000 |
| Couple – One Eligible | $32,500 (plus $14,000 exempt income) | $46,500 | $58,500 |
| Couple – Both Eligible | $32,500 (plus $14,000 exempt income) | $46,500 | $70,500 |
The benefit is reduced by 20¢ per dollar over the threshold (or 10¢ for couples where both qualify).
Canada Disability Benefit Payment Dates 2025
Once approved, recipients will receive their payment on the third Thursday of each month.
2025 CDB Payment Schedule
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| July | July 17, 2025 |
| August | August 21, 2025 |
| September | September 18, 2025 |
| October | October 16, 2025 |
| November | November 20, 2025 |
| December | December 18, 2025 |
Monthly payments continue through June 2026. If your annual CDB amount is $240 or less, it will be issued as a lump sum on your next scheduled payment date.
Retroactive Payments and Deadlines
Missed the June 30 deadline? Don’t worry.
If you apply after July 1, you may still receive retroactive payments. As long as you apply within two years of launch, and qualify, you’ll receive back pay starting from July 2025.
How to Receive Your Payment
You can receive your CDB payment via:
- Direct deposit (recommended for speed and security)
- Mailed cheque (slower, more delays possible)
To update your payment method, contact Service Canada or fill out the Direct Deposit Request Form online.
Additional Support for Canadians with Disabilities
Beyond the CDB, eligible Canadians may qualify for additional financial supports:
- Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
- CPP Disability Benefit
- Provincial disability assistance
- Employment and training supports
- GST/HST credits and housing rebates
Explore federal and provincial portals to combine benefits for maximum impact.
The launch of the Canada Disability Benefit marks a transformational moment for Canadians with disabilities. With $200/month in financial support, the program helps bridge the affordability gap and empowers recipients with more stability and dignity.
Whether you received a letter or not, now is the time to apply and secure the support you deserve. With first payments rolling out on July 17, Canadians living with disabilities can finally see the long-promised relief becoming reality.
FAQs
When will the first $200 Canada Disability Benefit payment be made?
The first payment is scheduled for Thursday, July 17, 2025, for approved applications submitted by June 30.
Do I need to have a Disability Tax Credit (DTC) to qualify?
Yes, being approved for the DTC is a mandatory requirement for the Canada Disability Benefit.
Can I still apply if I missed the June deadline?
Absolutely. Applications remain open, and retroactive payments will be provided if you apply within two years of the launch and meet eligibility.