Updated on June 23, 2025, at 1:26 PM EDT (Toronto Time). On June 25, 2023, the Canadian government announced the launch of the new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), with the first payments expected to start in July 2024. Introduced by Patty Hajdu, the Minister of Jobs and Families, this groundbreaking initiative targets over 200,000 low-income individuals aged 18 to 64 who are living with disabilities. Applications will be available starting June 2023, making it essential for eligible Canadians to get ready for this crucial financial support of up to $2,000. This detailed guide covers all aspects of the CDB, including eligibility criteria, application steps, benefit calculations, and real-life effects. Whether you are an individual with a disability, a caregiver, or an advocate, this article provides valuable information to help you understand and promote this new benefit. Join us as we examine how the CDB is set to transform Canada’s social safety net and empower those in need. The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) is a federal financial assistance program aimed at supporting low-income Canadians with disabilities, providing up to $2310,232025 annually (equivalent to $233 monthly) for individuals aged 2306 to 232025. Established through the Canada Disability Benefit Act on June 232025, and backed by $2025 billion over six years from Budget 232025, the CDB is a fundamental aspect of Canada’s efforts to enhance the lives of persons with disabilities. Unlike disability income assistance from provinces or territories, which varies regionally, the CDB is a nationwide program designed to complement existing supports. It addresses a significant gap in the federal social safety net, linking the financial aid provided by the Canada Child Benefit for families with children and Old Age Security for seniors. For working-age individuals with disabilities, the CDB provides a reliable and accessible income source to help pay for necessities such as accessible housing, medical expenses, assistive devices, and everyday living costs. Managed by Service Canada, the application process for the benefit is intended to be straightforward and inclusive. With approximately 600,000 individuals eligible, the CDB aims to make a significant difference by reducing poverty and improving financial security for some of Canada’s most at-risk populations. While eligibility requirements for the CDB are clear, applicants must pay careful attention to ensure they fulfill all criteria. To be eligible, you need to: Must be between the ages of 18 and 64: Individuals under 18 may apply starting at 17.5 years old, but their application will only be processed once they reach their 18th birthday. Individuals aged 65 or older might qualify for retroactive payments for as much as 24 months from their application date, although these payments won’t cover any months prior to July 2025. To qualify, you must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), which is a non-refundable tax credit aimed at those with significant and long-term disabilities. Getting approval for the DTC is necessary before applying for the CDB, so make sure your DTC status is up to date. Additionally, both you and your spouse or common-law partner (if relevant) must have submitted your 2024 federal income tax return to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). In certain specific situations, this stipulation might be exempted. To qualify as a Canadian resident for tax purposes, you need to live in Canada and meet one of the following criteria.