Updated on August 10, 2024
In Canada, Bill C-22, granted on June 22, 2023, and now in effect, marks a significant step with the Canada Disability Benefit Act. Despite this positive development, there’s ongoing work to fully grasp the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB).
The government has opted for a two-stage approach to formulate regulations, currently in the initial phase. According to the CDB Act, a report outlining government interactions with the DC, including DA, DP, disability support organizations, and the public, is mandated to shape CDB regulations.
While government employees continue to explore various avenues of interaction, there’s a specific focus on engaging with the disability community. Furthermore, plans are underway to establish an online platform for interaction. Updates on the Canada Disability Benefit 2023-24 will be promptly shared on this page once the government provides more details.
Canadians Encouraged to Shape the New Canada Disability Benefit (CDB)
The Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities has unveiled an online engagement tool for crafting the Canada Disability Benefit Regulations. Canadians are invited to contribute their input and opinions through this user-friendly platform, accessible on the Canada.ca website until December 21, 2023.
After the expected release of the draft regulations in 2024, additional opportunities to provide feedback will arise. On June 22, 2023, the Canada Disability Benefit Act received royal assent following unanimous approval from the Senate and the House of Commons. The development of rules for the Canada Disability Benefit requires an inclusive engagement process without barriers, as outlined by the Act and involving input from individuals with disabilities.
Canada Introducing Disability Benefit in 2024
In addition to the existing federal, territorial, and provincial benefits, as well as any private insurance payments that individuals with disabilities receive, it is crucial to introduce a new benefit. Handicapped individuals, who are not currently benefiting from federal, territorial, or provincial assistance, need to promptly submit a separate application to ensure eligibility for this new benefit.
Furthermore, it is essential to implement a substantial earnings exemption. This would enable handicapped individuals who are capable of working to maintain their income without it being significantly impacted by the costs of living assistance. It is vital for these individuals to benefit financially from their employment rather than seeing their earnings depleted by the expenses associated with disability.
To effectively alleviate poverty for handicapped individuals, the Canada Disability Benefit must be an integral part of a comprehensive system of benefits. This system should ensure an income that surpasses the official poverty line, taking into account the additional financial burdens associated with living with a disability.
Online Tool for Engaging with CDB Regulations
The Canada Disability Benefit Regulations online engagement tool is accessible on the Canada.ca website until December 21, 2023. After the anticipated official release of the draft regulations in 2024, additional opportunities for feedback will arise.
The government of Canada is seeking input from Canadians on the proposed Canada Disability Benefit. Your valuable feedback is requested on key aspects like eligibility and benefit amounts, which will be considered in shaping the rules for the Canada Disability Benefit. We appreciate your participation in this important consultation process.\
Get involved: Here’s how you can join in!
The Canadian government has introduced a new consultation process to shape the regulations for the upcoming Canada Disability Benefit. Whether you’re someone with a disability, a family member, a caregiver, or a professional in the disability community, your input is valued. Share your thoughts on implementation, including qualification criteria, application procedures, and, importantly, the benefit amount.
There are multiple ways to provide feedback, including using an online engagement tool. The deadline for participation is December 21, 2023. You can submit your input through srv217.services.gc.ca, via email, or by calling 1‑833‑390‑4065 and leaving a message by December 21, 2023, at 23:59 (Eastern Time). Your contribution matters!
The Canadian government is shaping the rules for the new Canada Disability Benefit and they want to hear from you! Whether you’re a person with a disability, a family member, a caregiver, or a professional in the disability community, your input is crucial. Share your thoughts on qualifying requirements, application processes, and, most importantly, the benefit amount.
There are multiple ways to provide feedback, including using the online engagement tool. Act now—December 21, 2023, is the deadline. Head to srv217.services.gc.ca, drop an email, or call 1‑833‑390‑4065 to leave a message with your comments by December 21, 2023, at 23:59 (Eastern Time). Your voice matters in shaping the Canada Disability Benefit!
Why is the CDB so important?
Many people with disabilities face elevated poverty rates, with 23% of working-age Canadians experiencing this hardship, compared to the overall population’s 10%, as per a Disability survey. For those with severe impairments, the figure rises to 28%, reaching 34% for those with very severe disabilities.
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, especially for individuals with impairments. The Canada Disability Benefit is a response aimed at addressing this inequality by establishing a basic income for Canadians with disabilities. It strives to provide essential financial support and alleviate the impact of economic disparities in the disability community.