The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) provides monthly, tax-free financial support to working-age Canadians with disabilities. The program is administered by Service Canada and is designed to help reduce financial hardship caused by disability-related costs.
Below are the official Canada Disability Benefit payment dates for 2026, eligibility rules, payment amounts, and how to apply.
Next CDB payment date: January 15, 2026
Canada Disability Benefit Payment Dates 2026
CDB payments are issued on the third Thursday of each month.
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 15, 2026 |
| February | February 19, 2026 |
| March | March 19, 2026 |
| April | April 16, 2026 |
| May | May 21, 2026 |
| June | June 18, 2026 |
| July | July 20, 2026 |
| August | August 20, 2026 |
| September | September 17, 2026 |
| October | October 15, 2026 |
| November | November 19, 2026 |
| December | December 17, 2026 |
If you receive direct deposit, the money will appear in your account on the payment date. Cheques may arrive a few days later.
What Is the Canada Disability Benefit?
The Canada Disability Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment for Canadians aged 18 to 64 who live with a disability and meet income and eligibility requirements.
It is meant to supplement income and reduce poverty among people with disabilities. It does not replace provincial disability supports or other federal programs.
Who Is Eligible for the Canada Disability Benefit?
You may qualify if you:
- Are 18 to 64 years old
- Live in Canada and have legal status (citizen, permanent resident, protected person, registered under the Indian Act, or eligible temporary resident)
- Are approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) (Form T2201)
- Have filed your most recent tax return (or your spouse/partner has)
- Have income below the program’s thresholds
How Much Can You Receive?
The maximum benefit is $200 per month, or $2,400 per year.
The exact amount depends on your household income and family situation.
Income thresholds
| Marital status | Full benefit if income ≤ | No benefit if income ≥ (no exemption) | No benefit if income ≥ (with max working exemption) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $23,000 | $35,000 | $45,000 |
| Married / common-law (one eligible) | $32,500 | $44,500 | $58,500 |
| Married / common-law (both eligible) | $32,500 | $56,500 | $70,500 |
You can claim a working income exemption:
- Up to $10,000 for singles
- Up to $14,000 for couples
This allows you to earn some income without losing your benefit.
When Do Payments Start?
- Applications opened on June 20, 2025.
- The first month of eligibility is June 2025.
- Payments started in July 2025.
If approved, you begin receiving payments the month after approval. You may also receive back payments for up to 24 months, but not for any period before June 2025.
If your annual benefit is under $240, you may receive a single lump-sum payment instead of monthly payments.
How to Apply for the CDB
You will need:
- Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Your residency status
- Your mailing address
- Your 2024 Notice of Assessment (line 23600)
- Direct deposit details (recommended)
Ways to apply:
- Online through My Service Canada Account (recommended)
- By phone at 1-833-486-3007
- In person at a Service Canada Centre
- By mail using a paper application
How Long Does Approval Take?
- Self-applications: up to 28 days
- Applications by a legal representative: up to 49 days
You will receive a letter with the decision.
If you disagree, you can request reconsideration within 180 days.
Are CDB Payments Taxable?
No. The Canada Disability Benefit is not taxable income and does not reduce other federal benefits. It also does not affect most provincial benefits (Alberta has specific rules).
Summary
- Next payment: January 15, 2026
- Payments are made monthly on the third Thursday
- Maximum benefit: $200/month
- Must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit
- Payments are tax-free and may include back pay
