Disability Advocates Criticize Canada’s $2,400 Maximum Benefit as Inadequate

Advocacy groups across Canada are expressing disappointment over the funding allocated in the 2024 federal budget for the long-awaited Canada Disability Benefit. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland announced $6.1 billion over six years for the benefit, providing a maximum of $2,400 per year. However, stakeholders are concerned that this equates to just $200 per month, falling short of expectations.

March of Dimes Canada’s President and CEO Len Baker criticized the budget, stating it does not fulfill the promise to lift people with disabilities out of poverty. Daily Bread Food Bank CEO Neil Hetherington emphasized the need to increase payments to ensure recipients live above the poverty line.

The budget’s eligibility criteria, based on a Disability Tax Credit certificate, has raised concerns among advocacy groups. They argue that this requirement may exclude many individuals currently receiving disability income support. The government plans to issue the first payments in July 2025 and consult with people with disabilities on income thresholds and phase-out rates.

Despite the disappointment, MP Pam Damoff defended the funding, stating it opens the door for conversations with provinces and territories. She emphasized the need for collaboration to support vulnerable individuals and address poverty effectively.

The Canada Disability Benefit is seen as a legacy social policy meant to supplement existing provincial benefits for low-income individuals with disabilities. However, concerns remain about potential cross-jurisdictional claw backs and the overall impact of the benefit on recipients’ financial security.