UCP detail incoming supports for Albertans with disabilities

Nonetheless, the government says the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) will launch in July.

In May, current AISH clients will receive letters with information specific to their file, including whether they will remain on AISH or transition to ADAP, they say.

They add that ADAP is a first-of-its-kind program that will provide financial, health, personal and employment supports to Albertans with severe disabilities who can work, while the existing Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program will continue to support Albertans with disabilities who cannot work.

“We made a promise to Albertans to improve supports for persons with disabilities, and with the launch of ADAP, we’re delivering on that promise,” says Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services.

“To the thousands of Albertans with disabilities who have been overlooked for decades and will finally be able to receive the support they need from ADAP – we see you, we hear you, and help is coming this July.”

According to the province, the ADAP core financial benefit will be set at $1,740/month.

Albertans on AISH who transfer to ADAP in July will receive a $200 monthly transition benefit until December 31, 2027. This means they will continue to receive their existing AISH benefit amount until December 31, 2027.

Other key updates

ADAP clients will be able to earn up to $700 per month before financial benefits are reduced.
- Albertans on ADAP will be able to earn more than $45,000 in annual employment income while continuing to receive financial benefits.
- Employment income above $700 per month will gradually affect financial benefits, beginning with less than a cent deduction for every additional dollar earned.
- This will be the highest employment income limit of any comparable disability income assistance program in Canada.
- Albertans on ADAP will continue to receive the health benefits they need, regardless of employment income.
Government is increasing the amount of pension income a spouse or cohabiting partner can receive before affecting benefits.
- The first $1,200 per month of spousal or partner pension income is fully exempt, with 25 per cent of any remaining amount also exempt.
Child benefits have been updated to reflect other child-related supports, including the Canada Child Benefit.
- This will increase child benefits for about 7,000 families who receive disability income assistance.

To learn more, visit Alberta.ca.

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by Josh Hall

UCP detail incoming supports for Albertans with disabilities

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