The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) is set to transform financial support for low-income Canadians living with disabilities.
Launched in July 2025, the program provides a monthly payment to qualifying adults aged 18 to 64 who are approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
With the second round of payments arriving on August 21, 2025, many are eager to understand eligibility, payment amounts, and schedules. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the CDB.
What Is the Canada Disability Benefit?
The Canada Disability Benefit is a federal monthly program administered by Service Canada, designed to help offset the high costs faced by people with disabilities.
These expenses often include mobility aids, medical equipment, specialized transportation, or personal care services.
Proposed in 2020, developed over several years, and officially launched in July 2025, the CDB is one of Canada’s most significant social initiatives in recent years.
It is income-tested, meaning the amount you receive depends on your household income, but it is indexed to inflation to maintain its value over time.
August 2025 Payment Date
The next CDB payment is scheduled for Thursday, August 21, 2025. This will be the second installment since the program launched.
- If you received your first payment in July 2025, August will continue the monthly cycle.
- If your application was approved after July, your August payment may include retroactive amounts for July.
- Those entitled to $240 or less annually will receive their full benefit as a lump sum on the first scheduled date following approval.
Who Qualifies for the CDB?
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: 18 to 64 years old.
- Residency: Must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes and have filed a 2024 tax return.
- Disability Tax Credit: Must be approved for the DTC, which requires a medical professional to certify the condition.
- Immigration status: Canadian citizens, permanent residents, protected persons, and certain temporary residents with at least 18 months in Canada may qualify.
- Income: Must fall under specific income thresholds (see table below).
- Not incarcerated: Long-term incarceration suspends payments, except for the first and last month of a sentence.
How Much Is the Canada Disability Benefit?
The maximum payment is $200 per month ($2,400 annually) per eligible individual. However, benefits reduce as income increases.
Income Thresholds
| Household Type | Full Benefit Eligibility | Phase-Out Range | Cut-off Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | Income under $23,000 | Reduces $0.20 per $1 over | $45,000 |
| Couple (1 partner eligible) | Income under $32,500 (with $14,000 exempt working income) | Reduces $0.20 per $1 | $58,500 |
| Couple (both eligible) | Each partner gets $200/month if combined income under $32,500 | Reduces $0.10 per $1 | $70,500 |
Canada Disability Benefit Payment Dates 2025
The CDB follows a consistent schedule, paying on the third Thursday of every month.
| 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 |
How to Apply for the CDB
Applications opened on June 20, 2025. Here’s how to apply:
- Check your DTC status. Apply for the Disability Tax Credit (Form T2201) if you’re not yet approved.
- Prepare documents. You’ll need your SIN, proof of residency/legal status, 2024 tax return, and direct deposit details.
- Choose an application method:
- Online via My Service Canada Account
- By phone through Service Canada helpline
- In person at a Service Canada office
- By mail using a printed application form
- Track your application. Processing takes about 28 days (or up to 49 days if a representative is involved).
Once approved, payments begin the following month on the scheduled date, with possible retroactive payments included.
Why the CDB Matters
For low-income Canadians with disabilities, the CDB provides critical relief. While $200 per month may not cover all disability-related costs, it eases financial stress and helps with essentials.
With inflation still affecting daily living, this benefit ensures vulnerable households have a stronger safety net.
The Canada Disability Benefit is a milestone program in Canada’s social safety net. With the August 21, 2025 payment just days away, eligible recipients can expect timely financial support that will continue monthly.
By understanding eligibility requirements, payment amounts, and schedules, Canadians with disabilities can better plan their finances and take full advantage of this program.
FAQs
When is the next Canada Disability Benefit payment?
The next CDB payment is on Thursday, August 21, 2025, with future payments on the third Thursday of each month.
How much will I receive from the CDB?
Eligible individuals can receive up to $200 per month ($2,400 annually), with amounts adjusted based on income and household type.
Can I get retroactive payments if I apply late?
Yes. If you qualify, you may receive up to two years of retroactive payments from the launch date (July 2025).