Dealing with a Disability
The Government of Canada offers a variety of services and financial benefits to assist people with disabilities and their families. Service Canada has compiled a list to help you find benefits that may be right for you.
1. Apply for Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefits
The Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefit is available to individuals who have made enough contributions to the Canada Pension Plan, and whose disability prevents them from working at any job on a regular basis. The disability must be long lasting or likely to result in death.
To apply for a Disability Benefit you can obtain the application kit on-line, or contact Service Canada and an application kit will be sent to you. All forms must be completed in writing.
The application kit includes several forms. They are listed below along with a follow-up checklist:
The application kit can be mailed to our offices or submitted in person. To submit it in person, contact Service Canada to make an appointment. If you do submit your application kit in person, remember to bring proof of birth.
2. Search for Other Benefits Available to People with Disabilities
The Guide to Government of Canada Services for People with Disabilities provides information on everything from employment, accessibility and education, to health, income support and tax benefits.
3. Apply for Benefits for your Children
If you receive Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefits, there may also be benefits for your children. Children between 18 and 25 must be attending school full time at a recognized institution. Children under 18 do not have to be in school to be eligible.
To apply for a children's benefit, you must:
- complete an application form;
- provide proof of your date of birth; and
- submit a form called "Declaration of Attendance at School or University".
Application kits for CPP children's benefits are available on-line. You can also contact Service Canada and an application kit will be sent to you.
For children between 18 and 25, you must complete the form when you first apply for a benefit, at the beginning of every new school year, and when you return to school after having left for a time. We may also ask you to complete one at the beginning of each semester if you are on a semester system or if your attendance starts in the middle of the traditional school year.
4. Research Tax Information for People with Disabilities
The Canada Revenue Agency provides information about tax credits and related topics for people with disabilities.
5. Apply for Disability Benefits for Veterans
The Disability Pensions program provides disability benefits to Canadian Forces or Merchant Navy veterans who have a permanent disability resulting from their military service. The program also provides disability pensions to serving and former members of the Canadian Forces and of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
For more information about Veterans Services, visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site.
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