Canada’s $1,870 Monthly Disability Benefit: Eligibility & 2024 Payment Details

Starting in October 2024, the Canadian government will introduce a new monthly disability benefit of $1,870, specifically aimed at seniors living with severe disabilities. The program is designed to offer financial support to seniors who are unable to work due to long-term disabilities and face challenges meeting basic living expenses. This initiative comes in response to rising living costs and is expected to provide crucial assistance to a vulnerable group within the senior population.

Overview of the New $1,870 Monthly Disability Benefit

The $1,870 monthly benefit aims to help Canadian seniors who are severely disabled and struggling financially due to their inability to work. With increasing inflation and the growing cost of living, many seniors with disabilities find it difficult to cover essential costs such as housing, food, healthcare, and medications. This new benefit seeks to address these financial burdens, offering a much-needed source of income.

The program will begin in October 2024, and eligible individuals can apply through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) My Account portal. Regular payments are expected to be made by the 25th of each month. Seniors who meet the required criteria can receive the benefit, providing vital support during challenging times.

Key Details of the Program

• Monthly Benefit Amount: $1,870
• Start Date: October 2024
• Eligibility: Canadian citizens or permanent residents aged 65 and older, with a severe, long-term disability.
• Application Process: Applications will be available online through the CRA My Account portal.
• Payment Schedule: Payments will be made by the 25th of each month, starting from October 2024.

Eligibility Criteria for the Disability Benefit

To qualify for the $1,870 monthly benefit, applicants must meet several specific requirements:

1. Residency: Applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents who have resided in Canada for at least 10 years.
2. Age: The applicant must be 65 years of age or older at the time of application.
3. Disability: The applicant must have a severe, long-term disability that prevents them from working. This can be a physical or mental condition and must be documented with appropriate medical records.
4. Other Programs: Seniors who are already receiving benefits from programs such as the Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPP-D), Old Age Security (OAS), or the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) are more likely to be approved, though this benefit can be claimed independently.

How to Apply for the Disability Benefit

Applying for the $1,870 monthly disability benefit is a straightforward process through the CRA’s My Account portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Create a CRA My Account: If you don’t already have one, visit the official CRA website to register.
2. Complete the Application: After logging into your CRA account, navigate to the section dedicated to the $1,870 benefit and fill out the application.
3. Submit Documentation: Ensure that you have all necessary documents, including:
   • Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.
   • Medical documentation confirming the severity and long-term nature of your disability.
   • Proof of age to meet the 65+ requirement.
4. Review and Submit: Carefully check your application for accuracy, then submit it for review. You will receive a confirmation once your application is submitted.
5. CRA Review: The CRA will evaluate your application and notify you of the decision. If approved, payments will be made directly to your bank account.

When Will Payments Begin?

Payments for the $1,870 disability benefit are set to start in October 2024. For individuals who have registered for direct deposit, the payments should be available by the 25th of each month. Those who opt for paper checks may experience a slight delay, with payments arriving in early October.

Important Tips for Applicants

• Monitor Your CRA Account: Regularly check your CRA My Account for updates and to ensure that all your details are in order.
• Watch Out for Scams: Be cautious of potential scams and misinformation circulating online. Always use official channels like the CRA website for application-related queries.
• Stay Updated: Keep an eye on Canada.ca for any changes or additional information related to the benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who qualifies for the $1,870 benefit? To be eligible, applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, aged 65 or older, and have a documented severe disability that prevents them from working.